In 2024, 15‑year‑old Dev Rai of Oakton High School in Virginia launched the Serving Society Global Foundation, a nonprofit that now connects 400 Indian artisans to American markets, sells 900 handcrafted items and has raised more than $15,000.
Rai, who first saw the artisans during visits to India, said he was struck by their skill and lack of market access, prompting him to partner with NGOs and government agencies to source products and bring them to U.S. buyers.
The foundation distributes goods through temples, festivals, grocery stores and community events, while a volunteer network spanning seven chapters—led by 18 youth leaders—has mobilised over 300 students from across the country, many linked to the SEWA DC Youth Group.
Looking ahead, Rai plans to build a digital platform for artisans to sell directly online, a move slated to launch next quarter that could slash intermediaries and boost earnings.