Snigtha Mohanraj

Growing up in New Haven, Snigtha Mohanraj experienced firsthand the stark disparities in educational opportunities. This area, home to both elite private schools and underfunded public schools, highlighted the inequalities in access to quality education. In middle school, Snigtha noticed the lack of representation of students of colour in science research competitions, a realization that ignited her passion for addressing these disparities. Her school lacked a research program, mentors, and funding, unlike wealthier schools. Determined to make a difference, Snigtha, as captain of her school’s science club, expanded its membership from five to over fifty students by promoting science education and organizing the school’s first science fair. This initiative encouraged many students to pursue research and compete in regional and state competitions. 

In high school, Snigtha co-founded YouthSTEM, a nonprofit organization aimed at making STEM education more accessible to underrepresented students. She developed educational resources, compiled opportunities for competitions, and mentored over fifty local students in research projects. Her efforts sought to bridge the gap between underfunded and well-resourced schools, advocating for equal funding and opportunities for all students. 

Academically, Snigtha excelled in various advanced courses, including being the first to take AP Biology in 9th grade at her school, and she received top scores and grades in subjects like AP Chemistry and university-level physics. As captain of the science, math, and environmental clubs, she promoted STEM education, mentored students, and led her school’s varsity math team in competitions. 

Snigtha’s scientific research, focused on developing efficient and inexpensive water filtration systems, earned her numerous awards at state and national levels. She won second place in the state life science category in 9th grade and was a finalist for the International Science and Engineering Fair. She also received recognition in the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium and the Invention Convention, securing a patent for her “Ferro-Sponge,” a device designed to remove microplastics and oil from water. 

Her initiatives extended beyond her school, impacting her peers and the broader community. Snigtha created educational resources, mentored student projects, and organized her school’s first science fair. She collaborated with professionals from Yale University and local organizations to provide mentorship and funding for student research. Her efforts aimed to make STEM education more accessible, promoting curiosity and determination in science among students from underrepresented communities. 

Snigtha’s work with YouthSTEM sought to address educational disparities on a larger scale, aiming to improve STEM education accessibility nationwide. She collaborated with global organizations to provide funds, mentorship, and resources for students interested in science research. Hosting webinars and organizing events, she connected students with industry professionals and provided guidance in the research process. 

Despite facing challenges in accessing professional lab equipment and mentorship, Snigtha persisted in her research. She overcame these obstacles by seeking help from local professors and lab professionals, conducting extensive independent research, and creating her own devices when necessary. These experiences equipped her with the skills to mentor others in her community facing similar challenges. 

Snigtha’s creativity and innovation in developing water filtration systems, her leadership in YouthSTEM, and her efforts to address educational disparities have made a significant impact. As a winner of the Rise Global Challenge, she connected with a global network of individuals, collaborated on various projects, and contributed to discussions on pressing issues like climate change. Her work aims to foster global citizenship, promote STEM engagement among youth, and advocate for systemic changes to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students.