Sanah Goenka, a senior at Wellesley High School in Massachusetts, is deeply committed to creating positive change. She believes that raising awareness about education for underprivileged girls, health challenges, and gender equality can inspire others to take action and support meaningful charitable efforts.
From the young age of eight, Sanah has been passionate about helping others and giving back to her community. She has actively participated in fundraising initiatives, organized book and food drives, provided free remote tutoring, and volunteered with various organizations both locally in Wellesley and internationally in India.

Sanah Goenka serves as a Youth Ambassador for the American India Foundation (AIF), where she has actively raised funds for the Learning and Migration Program (LAMP), which supports the education of underprivileged children. In recognition of her dedication, she was honored with the Youth Ambassador Heart of Service Award this year.

Since 2014, Sanah has raised over $30,000 for AIF’s LAMP program, providing access to education and enrichment opportunities for more than 1200 students. Prior to that, for three consecutive years, she raised funds to support cataract surgeries and limb operations for children and families in need through Akola Radha Mandal in India. She has also sponsored the education of underprivileged girls through organizations such as Plan International and AGAPE.

Each summer, Sanah travels to Akola, India, where she volunteers at the RDG School and Women’s College—institutions founded by her great-grandmother. She has led fundraising efforts to provide bicycles, books, and school supplies for students there.

In her local community, Sanah remains equally committed to service. She volunteers at the Wellesley and Newton Food Pantries, Cradles to Crayons, Girls Inc. Worcester, and various soup kitchens. She actively participates in school-based service organizations, including Girl Scouts, Women in Business & Philanthropy, Key Club, and the Red Cross Club. She has also led and supported numerous food drives, book drives, bake sales, and awareness campaigns.

Sanah Goenka’s commitment to community service has earned her numerous honors, including:

• Congressional Award – Gold Certificate (2024)
• President’s Volunteer Service Award (2020, 2023, 2024)
• United Nations Association – National Community Service Award (2023, 2024)
• Zero Hunger Hero Award (2023, 2024)
• Key Club Distinguished Service Award (2023)
• 20 Under 20 Award – India New England (2023)