How Harshini Kishore Singh is Inspiring Rural Kids with Tech Education

Empowering Rural India through Technology

In a small village in Tamil Nadu, 22-year-old Harshini Kishore Singh is redefining possibilities for underprivileged children. By skillfully merging her entrepreneurial spirit with a commitment to education, Harshini is teaching young minds not just about technology, but how to navigate it responsibly in an increasingly digital world.

Through her initiative, Rural Tech Rise, Harshini empowers over 5,000 children with digital literacy, cybersecurity awareness, and entrepreneurial skills. By day, she educates students using cutting-edge tools like virtual reality, and by night, she works in IT to sustain her mission. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the potential that arises when passion meets purpose.

From Gifting Ventures to Leadership Challenges

Harshini's entrepreneurial journey began at the tender age of 16 with a corporate gifting business, showcasing her natural inclination towards problem-solving and innovation. However, her experiences weren't limited to success; the failure of her first venture taught her valuable lessons that reshaped her vision. "My initial understanding of business was solely about profits. Volunteering with Teach for India highlighted the education gaps in our country and propelled me to initiate change," she recalls.

This profound realization fueled her drive to seek transformative solutions, leading to the establishment of DigiSafe—a cybersecurity initiative aimed at educating children about online safety. Here, she conducted workshops that not only informed but also empowered kids to share their experiences of internet safety issues, turning potential crises into teachable moments.

Bridging the Digital Divide

With the formation of Rural Tech Rise, Harshini has successfully introduced students to technology that they would not have encountered otherwise. Using donations, including VR headsets from an Australian university, she immerses children in interactive learning experiences. This hands-on approach ensures that technology is not just an abstract concept but a tangible resource for their future.

Moreover, her entrepreneurial teachings resonate deeply, as they encourage children to think critically and creatively. Students participate in activities such as a Shark Tank-style pitching competition, where they can showcase business ideas and even earn cash prizes. This instills a sense of ownership and ambition among the children, inspiring them to dream beyond traditional career paths.

A Vision for the Future

Harshini's ambitious plans for the future include expanding her team to 100 members and forming global partnerships to further amplify her impact. She envisions a world where every child has access to quality education and the tools needed for success. "If everyone takes care of their community, no child in India will be left behind," she asserts passionately.

Her unwavering dedication is a testament to the power of resilience and community impact—providing a shining example for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. In Harshini, we find not just a successful young entrepreneur, but a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in the world of education.