Shriya Shankar is the co-founder of Sitara Akka, an organization empowering thousands of students to become self-directed learners for life. She founded Sitara Akka at the age of 18, leading the initiative to grow a network of 200+ Akkas and Annas who mentor students across all 31 districts of Karnataka. Under her leadership, Sitara Akka has partnered with reputed institutions like NSRCEL-IIMB and The Circle India, and signed MOUs with government education offices to create impactful district-level education solutions. Shriya’s vision and efforts have earned her recognition, including an opportunity to meet the Honorable President of India, and a feature in Deccan Herald as a changemaker to watch in 2025.