Youth Ambassador Program
Calling all high schoolers with a passion for changemaking!
AIF is committed to fostering the next generation of international social impact leaders right here in the United States–as it is precisely these young minds that will further equity, inclusion, and opportunity for marginalized communities on a global scale.
As part of this mission, we offer the AIF Youth Ambassador Program (YAP)—an avenue for motivated high school students with a passion for international development and social change to help contribute to a more equitable India. Working individually or in a team of up to three, Youth Ambassadors can design and implement fundraising campaigns to support AIF’s overall mission or focus specifically on one of our award-winning programs: Digital Equalizer (DE), Learning and Migration Program (LAMP), Market Aligned Skills Training (MAST), and Maternal and Newborn Survival Initiative (MANSI). In this way, they will participate in driving large-scale impact, while honing their leadership, communication, marketing, event planning, and community-engagement skills.
Youth Ambassadors will also have the opportunity to receive the AIF Youth Ambassador Service Award. The AIF Youth Ambassador Service Award (YASA) recognizes Youth Ambassadors who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to raise funds, foster creativity, engage with diverse audiences, and broaden networks to further AIF’s mission. To see this year’s AIF YASA recipients, please see below.
Application Details
Applications are now live for our 2026-2027 YAP Cohort.
Note: All applicants must be US residents.
Application Deadline: September 15th, 2026 11:59pm EST
Application Status Notification Date: September 15th, 2026
Length of Program: October 1st, 2026 - July 1st, 2027
Why Enroll to be a YAP
Lead With Purpose
Build real leadership skills, confidence, and life skills while transforming lives across AIF's world-class programs.
Connect Across Continents
Join a community of next-gen changemakers across the US — united by service, learning, and a lasting bond with India.
Rally Support, Spread the Word
Master the art of fundraising and outreach while championing a mission that matters, turning passion into tangible impact.
Stand Out, Move Forward
Turn meaningful leadership and service into a stronger college application and gain a head start on your professional network.
A Path You Can Trust
Backed by real impact and a clear roadmap from a credible binational nonprofit, YAP turns ambition into achievement.
WINNERS OF THE 2025-2026 AIF YOUTH AMBASSADOR SERVICE AWARDS
The AIF Youth Ambassador Trailblazer Award
Sohum Kothari
The Trailblazer Award honors our most exceptional fundraisers. Sohum Kothari and Devan Talwalkar have been recognized as the top YAP fundraisers. Their efforts are a reflection of their steadfast commitment to drive meaningful social change. Congratulations Sohum and Devan!
The AIF Youth Ambassador Heart of Service Award
Aisha Nigam
Harshvardhan Kakkar
The Heart of Service Award honors youth ambassadors who have shown outstanding dedication and community involvement. Aisha Nigam and Harshvardhan Kakkar have demonstrated consistent, passionate efforts in their work of raising funds and awareness for AIF’s mission. Congratulations, Aisha and Harshvardhan!
The AIF Youth Ambassador Innovative Spirit Award
Nysa Daru
Neil Daru
Mitali Anandikar and Diya Daryanani
The Innovative Spirit Award honors youth ambassadors who have shown exceptional creativity and innovation in their fundraising efforts. This award celebrates Team Neil and Nysa Daru and Team Mitali Anandikar and Diya Daryanani, who went above and beyond in galvanizing their community in engaging, diverse ways. Congratulations, Neil, Nysa, Mitali and Diya!
Congratulations to this year’s winners! We thank you for the impact you have made on the Youth Ambassador Program.
