Bhanvi Girdhar
Workshop Facilitator
Reading captivated me from a young age, naturally leading me to explore writing opportunities. My passion for writing led me to discover the Ripple Foundation, where I entered the Kids Write 4 Kids (KW4K) contest and participated in the Write It Workshops for grades 4-8. These experiences connected me with like-minded individuals who shared my love for reading, writing, and creativity. Later, I began volunteering with Ripple and contributing to the Wave Blog for grades 8-12.
Now, as a workshop facilitator, I can give back and help foster the same passion in a new generation of writers. The workshops enrich both facilitators and participants, fostering creativity and confidence. Ripple Foundation initiatives like the KW4K contest, Wave Blog, and Write It Workshops inspire and amplify young voices. I’m grateful to Ripple for nurturing my journey and its dedication to empowering youth through literacy and creativity.
Shadi Ahmadian
Grant Writer/Researcher
I discovered my love for writing in high school with the help of some incredibly thoughtful and influential English teachers.However, the topics were often limited to book or movie analysis. I wanted more freedom in my writing, which I found through the Ripple Foundation. Working with Ivy and writing for the foundation was incredibly fulfilling, offering a creative outlet outside academic constraints.
As I transitioned to studying Medical Science at Western, I missed writing beyond lab reports. With my experience working with youth, I decided to volunteer more permanently as a grant researcher/writer at Ripple.
Many organizations don’t focus on literacy and creativity like Ripple does. In school, most of my friends disliked English due to its restrictive nature. Ripple allows youth to express their passions freely through writing, whether on the Wave Blog or in workshops. Volunteering here, even in a small way, is incredibly fulfilling for me.