What if the stories hidden in old streets could shape the future of a city? For Adheena Ashfaque, a childhood surrounded by the living heritage of Mattancherry has grown into a mission to make Kochi’s history accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for everyone.
For over 12 years, Noufal Mahboob carried a simple but powerful idea: meaningful change begins locally. Today, through Local Sustainable Living, he has created a space where sustainability, livelihoods, creativity, and community come together under one roof.
Born into one of Kerala’s most marginalised tribal communities, Manikandan turned hardship into hope. As the first Paniya MBA, he is now working to ensure that education and opportunity reach every corner of his community.
What if the stories hidden in old streets could shape the future of a city? For Adheena Ashfaque, a childhood surrounded by the living heritage of Mattancherry has grown into a mission to make Kochi’s history accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for everyone.
For over 12 years, Noufal Mahboob carried a simple but powerful idea: meaningful change begins locally. Today, through Local Sustainable Living, he has created a space where sustainability, livelihoods, creativity, and community come together under one roof.
Born into one of Kerala’s most marginalised tribal communities, Manikandan turned hardship into hope. As the first Paniya MBA, he is now working to ensure that education and opportunity reach every corner of his community.
From telling stories through film to building a community movement, Mujeeb Latheef is reimagining how people connect. Through Local, he has built a unique space where trust, sustainability, and human connection matter more than profit.
A chance step into community work changed the course of Dimple Singh’s life. Today, through COHAS, she is building spaces where children and young people can learn, create, and imagine a better future.
Mini’s journey began outside the walls of conventional education. Today, in Wayanad, she is creating spaces where tribal children can discover their voices, preserve their heritage, and believe in new possibilities.
What began as a search for belonging led Aarthi to Kerala, where she transformed her experiences into a mission to nurture emotional well-being and life skills. Today, through the Olimalar Foundation, she is helping young people find confidence, connection, and hope.
Founded by Goutham and his friends in Kasaragod, Fireflies believes that volunteering is not just about helping others; it is also a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
From a young girl struggling with comparison and self-doubt to a compassionate leader helping others feel heard, Sreela Menon’s journey is one of quiet strength and deep empathy.
For years, Sreeshma danced with the fear of making mistakes, constant comparisons, and never feeling “good enough.” But through Thudippu, the dancer slowly found something she had been missing all along: the freedom to move as herself.
What if your biggest setbacks were actually preparing you for something bigger? Maya Menon’s story is a powerful reminder that courage, compassion, and a willingness to adapt can transform both lives and communities.
George “Jutten” doesn’t just sing songs; he creates connection. From Fort Kochi’s busy streets to government school classrooms, his life’s work is helping people heal through music, empathy, and conversation.
aikyam fellows inspire actions on important & urgent needs of the planet and underserved communities.
