India, October 28, 2023: Arun Daniel Yellamaty Kumar, the Founder and Director of the Youngistaan Foundation, one of India’s largest volunteer-driven non-profit grassroots organizations, has received the prestigious Meridian Global Citizen Award. This recognition celebrates his significant contributions to his community, focusing on fostering greater understanding between nations and promoting a more secure and prosperous world.

The award acknowledges his tireless efforts to empower and educate Indian youth, his innovative use of volunteerism to advance UN Sustainable Development Goals, and his ability to forge sustainable partnerships.

Arun Daniel, in his acceptance speech, expressed his deep honor and humility in representing India on a global stage. He highlighted the enthusiasm of young people in creating positive change within their communities and stressed the importance of a strong social support system to boost their confidence and help them create a better future. Through the Youngistaan Foundation, he aims to provide a platform for the self-development of young individuals through social development.

Arun dedicated the award to the passionate young volunteers who have been tirelessly improving the lives of those in need across India. He also expressed gratitude to the Government of India, the Telangana State Government, the US Consulate Hyderabad, and the Meridian International Centre for their unwavering support.

Furthermore, Arun was invited to speak at the Summit’s Innovation stage, addressing an audience comprising corporate, government, and private sector participants, discussing the empowerment of youth. With over 1 billion young people worldwide and 600 million youth in India, there’s incredible potential for positive change.

During his address, Arun discussed community service, volunteering, social entrepreneurship, and mentoring their passions, highlighting their role in building a brighter future. He also emphasized the remarkable work of the Youngistaan Foundation and encouraged people to support and empower youth as they shape a more innovative and prosperous world.

Youngistaan Foundation works to support the community through programs that aim to improve livelihoods, promote entrepreneurship, address educational equity, advance gender equality, foster climate action, protect the environment, enhance healthcare, strengthen democracy, provide disaster relief, and engage in need-based projects. In 2022, Arun Yellamaty was selected as one of the few individuals from the Telugu States for the prestigious Department of State International Visitors Leadership Project (IVLP) under the Youth and Civic Engagement: Youth Activism category, nominated by the US Consulate in Hyderabad.