Three years ago, Charvi Gangwani ’24 cofounded a nonprofit organization that empowers adolescents in her home country of India and globally with essential emotional well-being skills. Her advocacy for mental health awareness and the need to combat the stigma surrounding mental health challenges earned her an invitation to a celebration of the International Day of the Girl last week in Washington, D.C.
Organized by the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues, the Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy, and the Office of Global Youth Issues at the U.S. Department of State, the event highlighted the achievements of young women worldwide and featured discussions on critical issues impacting today’s youth.
Gangwani participated in the panel “Young Women Shaping Mental Health for All,” where she shared insights on technological interventions in mental health care. The mission of her web-based, youth-led initiative, The Amygdala, is to create a safe, inclusive space for young individuals to seek support, connect with others, and access resources promoting mental resilience and positive mental health. The organization focuses on education, advocacy, and compassionate community building.
“Our vision is to lead a global movement that revolutionizes mental health education for adolescents through technology,” Gangwani said. “We strive for a world where young people have the knowledge and tools to navigate their mental well-being confidently, free from the burden of stigma or discrimination. Through open conversations and access to quality care, we are building a mentally healthier future for generations to come.”
In 2022, Gangwani was among the 34 young people representing 23 countries who were named Global Teen Leaders by the We Are Family Foundation, based on their social good innovations, organizations, projects, and promise for a more just, equitable, and peaceful future.
Top Photo: Charvi Gangwani ’24 (right) with U.S. Special Envoy Abby Finkenauer
