Dev Rai founded a nonprofit at 15; it has helped 400 artisans, sold 900 products and mobilised 300 volunteers

Dev Rai founded a nonprofit at 15; it has helped 400 artisans, sold 900 products and mobilised 300 volunteers (Image Credit: Serving Society) At 15, while many teenagers are focused on school and extracurricular activities, Dev Rai established a nonprofit to help traditional artisans in India reach more customers. Two years later, his initiative, Serving Society Global Foundation, has raised more than $15,000, supported over 400 artisans, sold more than 900 handcrafted products and mobilised over 300 young volunteers. According to the organisation’s official website, its work combines support for economically disadvantaged communities with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. Based in Virginia, the initiative connects Indian craft traditions with American buyers, while giving young volunteers opportunities to develop leadership, business and communication skills.How a visit to India inspired the initiativeRai, an Indian-American student at Oakton High School in Virginia, founded Serving Society Global Foundation in 2024. The idea emerged from his visits to India, where he encountered artisans producing intricate handmade goods but struggling to secure consistent ...