Youth Projects

About the Taymai Grant

The Taymai (Tamil Youth Making Impact) Grant, awarded by the Tamil Nadu Foundation (TNF), supports youth-driven initiatives that positively impact communities, celebrating service and innovation.

Ripple Effect (2026) – Led by Nathan Raja
Status: In progress | Individual Contributor

Founded by Nathan Raja, The Ripple Effect provides clean drinking water solutions to government school students through reusable water bottles and water filtration systems. By improving access to safe, reliable drinking water, the initiative promotes better health, supports learning, and creates a lasting ripple of positive change in schools and communities

Steps to Success (2025) – Led by Samyuktha Selvam
Status:  Completed |  Taymai Grant Winner

Samyuktha’s project provides shoes to students who walk barefoot to school, ensuring a safer, more comfortable journey and improving access to education. Inspired by her visit to rural schools, she continues to raise funds and expand the project’s reach.

Access the project Photos here: Steps to Success

Female Health & Hygiene – Pilot Project (2024) – Led by Likhitha Selvan
Status:  Completed |  Individual Contributor

Likhitha identified the need for menstrual hygiene support in rural schools and raised over $1,800 (plus $500 personally) to supply eco-friendly products and conduct health workshops. The pilot supported more than 150 girls at a tribal school and is now serving as a model for similar programs in rural Tamil Nadu.

Access the project Photos here: 2024 | 2025

Talking Pen Project (2021–2023) – Led by Saathvik Selvan & Sharvaa Selvan, benefiting over 1,400 students
Status:  Completed |  Taymai Grant Winner

The Youth Club deployed audio-enabled “Talking Pens” with companion books in government schools across Tamil Nadu. These pens read lessons aloud in Tamil and English, improving pronunciation, comprehension, and confidence—especially for early readers. Funded through the 2023 Walkathon and community donors, the program has benefited over 1,400 students.

Access the project Photos here: 2021 | 2025

TNF Plates of Purpose
Status: In progress | Individual Contributor

Founded by Siddharth Ramesh, this initiative provides durable stainless-steel plates to government school students, improving hygiene, dignity, and the daily dining experience. Each plate is engraved with a message promoting handwashing and reducing food waste, helping students build healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Light for the Future
Status: In progress | Individual Contributor

Founded by Sai Hasini, this initiative provides solar-powered study lamps to students in underserved communities, enabling them to study safely after dark. By ensuring reliable access to light, the project improves learning opportunities, supports academic success, and inspires a brighter future for every child.