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I-Stem proudly welcomes its newest cohort of Fellows - 24 extraordinary individuals selected from a competitive pool of over 300 candidates. This fellowship program represents more than just professional development; it's a powerful statement about reimagining disability in the workplace.

The Employment Readiness Fellowship specifically targets first-generation professionals with disabilities, providing them with comprehensive support as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. Through targeted mentorship, skill development initiatives, and direct connections with corporate partners, these fellows are being positioned not just for employment, but for leadership. Special thanks to Microsoft for supporting the program and providing mentorship to the fellows

• A B Madhava

A B Madhava hails from the vibrant town of Tirupati. After three childhood surgeries affecting his movement, he's now studying Computer Science at IIIT Lucknow. He says "his family and friends have been key to his success and have helped him get here"

Technology became Madhava's language of empowerment. From high school onwards, he immersed himself in programming, mastering languages like C/C++, JavaScript, and SQL. Web development emerged as his main area of interest - a domain where he could translate complex challenges into elegant solutions.
Beyond coding, Madhava is a multifaceted leader. As a senior member of the Esterella Music Club, he organises campus events, showcasing skills that extend far beyond technical expertise.

His vision is clear: leverage technology to create meaningful change. Madhava aims to become a Software Developer who doesn't just write code, but builds solutions that genuinely improve lives.

• Abhijeet Singh

Hailing from Dhanbad, Jharkhand, Abhijeet Singh began his journey as a chemical and polymer engineer and is now pursuing an MBA at IIM Lucknow. A bicycle accident unexpectedly altered his life when doctors discovered a rare bone condition. Although disorienting at first, he adapted and navigated these challenges with resilience and determination.

Abhijeet has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, which reflects his strong commitment to learning and growth. Outside of academics, he is a rap music enthusiast and an avid reader. Friends describe him as easy-going, helpful, and always eager to learn.

Through the National Service Scheme, he has taught over 100 underprivileged children, showcasing his dedication to community service and education.

His interests include sustainable technologies and robotics, driven by a vision to transform industries and uplift communities. He aspires to bridge business strategy with social change, making a meaningful impact in every endeavor.

• Aditya Sanjay Jagdale

Aditya Jagdale, hailing from a farming family in rural Maharashtra. Currently pursuing Computer Science Engineering at IIT Kanpur, he showcased academic prowess throughout school and successfully cleared the challenging JEE Advanced.
His passion for technology and science has been evident since childhood. He's a Reliance Scholarship Fellow, stood in the top 5 percentile at the Adobe Gen Solve Hackathon, also selected as a Summer Intern at Google. As an athlete he demonstrates versatility beyond textbooks.
His dream is clear: to become an exceptional software engineer who creates meaningful technological solutions. Aditya wants to work with leading tech companies and potentially become part of India's next big tech success story.

• Akrisht Vishwas

Akrisht Vishwas, a final-year Electrical Engineering student at IIT BHU who's turning his passion for technology into impactful solutions. Over the years he has mastered multiple coding languages and even built a full-stack chat application.

Currently equipped with a cochlear implant, Akrisht navigated his early years balancing hospital visits with academics. Yet, this never deterred him from excelling in his studies. Beyond tech, you might find him absorbed in a good book or playing the tabla!

His goals? Developing AI-enhanced applications that solve real-world problems while supporting his parents who've been his backbone. He's also passionate about helping others facing similar challenges in their tech journeys.

• Amitabh Singh

A budding technologist and problem-solver, Amitabh is pursuing BTech at IIT BHU. What sets Amitabh apart is their self-taught journey in computer science. From mastering multiple programming languages to developing impactful projects. His competitive programming skills shine through with a massive number of problems solved across platforms.

Beyond academics, Amitabh has embraced leadership roles as a Marketing Executive for Kashiyatra 2024 and guides new students as a Nodal Induction Mentor

His journey hasn't been without challenges, with early childhood medical interventions and discrimination due to his disability.

Looking ahead, Amitabh aims to make his mark in the tech industry before venturing into real estate – combining technical expertise with business acumen.

• Anant Kacholia

Anant Kacholia from IIT Guwahati, Currently pursuing his B.Tech in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence , he has secured International Rank 15 in the WorldQuant BRAIN Super Alpha Competition and clinching first place in the Nobias Intercollegiate Investment Challenge.

Today, he's thriving at the intersection of machine learning and finance. His work with Nobias LLC in developing a stock recommendation system and his contributions to WorldQuant LLC showcase his innovative approach to financial technology.

What's next for Anant? He's set his sights on creating solutions that bridge Machine Learning and finance.

• Ananya Sikdar

Ananya Sikdar from IIT Kharagpur, pursuing BTech in Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering. Born with underdeveloped hands, her academic journey is marked by stellar achievements - ranking 10th in WBJEE, securing the prestigious NTSE scholarship, and consistently leading her class throughout school.

Beyond academics, Ananya brings diverse talents to the table - from coding in multiple languages to artistic pursuits like sketching and singing.

Through the I-Stem Fellowship, Ananya aims to gain corporate experience and develop her project management skills

• Anish kumar

From a small village in Bihar, A second-year MBA student in IIM Trichy with a visual impairment, he's transforming rural roots into professional ambition.

Anish has already made his mark, winning the Ananta Quest competition at Tata Steel. With determination as his compass, Anish is all set to raise the bar in the corporate world

• Ashutosh Golande

Ashutosh Golande, he lost his left leg below the knee following an accident in the 10th grade. After this he channeled his energy into academics and professional development, securing a top rank in JEE Advanced

During his final year of college, Ashutosh has been building his tech credentials. He interned as a Software Developer at Pratinik Infotech in Pune, where he also led the development of a full-stack blogging platform. Frontend or backend—he navigates both with remarkable skill.

He is aimed at creating technological solutions that enhance accessibility and empower others.

• Bishal Dalai

Bishal Dalai, Born in Cuttack, Odisha, Bishal's story is about courage and drive. He faced a motor disability from birth and went through several surgeries.

Bishal shines in many areas. He plays para-badminton at the national level and performs with the dance club at IIT Kharagpur. As the founder of the E-Sports Club and a member of the Entrepreneurship Cell, he shows leadership and creativity that goes beyond books.

He was among the top 5 students in his school, won a national scholarship, and finally joined the Mathematics and Computing program at IIT Kharagpur. During his internship at ICF Delhi, Bishal led sustainable energy projects and advised regulatory bodies on national energy policies

Bishal wants to build his career in consulting and software engineering contributing to high-growth industries, and creating more inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities.

• Devansh Upadhyay

Devansh Upadhyay, hailing from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, at 12, a serious leg condition challenged him. He excelled in academics, ranking 4th in his district's Class 12th board exams and cracking JEE Advanced to secure a spot at IIT Delhi.

When he's not coding, you'll find him at the gym – a "coder that lifts" who believes in holistic growth.

With a passion for development, Devansh aims to work at a multinational, gaining insights into corporate dynamics. His ultimate dream? Launching a startup that tackles social challenges head-on.

• Gautam Jha

Gautam Kumar Jha, A fourth-year Computer Science student from Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra Ranchi, he moves through the tech world with a hearing disability. He loves solving problems and working with data structures, which showed when he made it to the second round of the IIIT Ranchi Hackathon.

Always ready to learn, he brings energy to his studies and work. By joining the I-Stem Fellowship, he hopes to grow his skills and help others in the tech world, showing that different ways of thinking can make technology better.

• Indra Gupta

Indra Kumar Gupta is a final-year Aerospace Engineering student from IIT Kharagpur, coming from Dumka, Jharkhand. Indra loves working with technology - from building websites to creating smart systems for UAVs.

He's already worked with Tech Mahindra and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. As a top-rated freelancer, Indra has created websites and smart chatbots. On campus, he led tech groups and helped other students learn and grow.

Indra wants to create new technologies that can help people. His big dream is to mix software, aerospace, and technology to solve real-world problems.

• Nirlesh Pandey

Nirlesh Pandey is studying Mathematics and Scientific Computing at IIT Kanpur. He has a hearing disability which led to him facing a lot of challenges in completing in education, however He passed the JEE Advanced exam and got into IIT Kanpur and built up a lot of tech skills by working on different projects like sorting documents using AI and building a decentralized web app

His father, a teacher for students with special needs, inspired him and now, Nirlesh wants to help other students with disabilities succeed in tech.

His goal? Use technology to help people and create opportunities for everyone

• Prashant Agnihotri

Prashant Agnihotri from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, born with cerebral palsy which affects his mobility. After completing his Master's in Computer Applications from Jawaharlal Nehru University, Prashant is now pursuing an M.Tech in Computer Science from IIT Kharagpur.

During his studies at JNU, he made a mark as a Placement Coordinator, helping his peer find jobs, and he even served as a Councillor for his school.

Prashant's goal is simple yet powerful. He wants to change how people see disabilities in the workplace. Instead of limiting himself, he's pushing boundaries. His dream is to land a role in a top company and show that talent knows no barriers.

• Raushan Kumar

Raushan Kumar, he is a final-year B.Tech student at IIT Delhi studying Computer Science. He is deeply interested in AI, machine learning, and web development. Coming from a small town, Raushan has always been curious about technology and how it can solve real-world problems.

At NIELIT, he interned and worked on developing an alumni portal. With experience from the Google Pathways fellowship and workshops on AI competency, Raushan wants to work at the intersection of AI and ethics. His goal is to create technology that is fair and transparent. He believes AI should be developed responsibly, ensuring it benefits everyone

• Sai Bhuvan Deepala

Sai Bhuvan Deepala is a fourth-year student at IIT Kharagpur, pursuing an Integrated M.Sc. in Mathematics and Computing. Hailing from a small town in Andhra Pradesh, he navigates academic life with one arm, demonstrating remarkable academic prowess.

His academic journey is marked by consistent excellence. He scored high in 10th and 12th grade, securing admission to one of India's premier technical institutions. At IIT Kharagpur, Bhuvan has been actively involved in technical projects and internships, continuously expanding his skillset.

Bhuvan harbors a deep passion for aerodynamics and aviation technology. He wants to contribute to cutting edge advancements in these areas.

• Sajid Ganie

Sajid Ganie is an electrical engineering student at IIT Kharagpur. In his final year, he has already made significant strides in blockchain and software development.

His standout project is a decentralized monitoring platform that tracks smart contracts in real-time. His goal is to develop solutions that make complex systems more transparent and accessible.

• Saurabh Jaiswal

Saurabh Jaiswal is a final-year M.Tech student in Computer Science at IIT Kharagpur. Living with albinism, he has navigated visual challenges with determination.

At IIT Kharagpur, Saurabh has developed strong skills in machine learning and web development. Beyond coding, he is an active member of the Art of Living, which has taught him valuable lessons about mental resilience and personal growth.

His professional goal is clear: to create technological solutions that are accessible and inclusive. Saurabh wants to use his technical expertise to develop innovations that can benefit underrepresented communities.

• Shubham Thorat

Shubham Thorat is an information technology professional with a disability. Living with Crohn's disease, he has developed a strong technical background. His academic path includes studying IT and preparing for competitive exams like GATE. Shubham has focused on building technical and analytical skills while managing his personal health challenges

Currently, Shubham is interested in expanding his technical capabilities and finding opportunities that match his skill set. His approach to work is direct. He believes in focusing on what he can do, rather than what might hold him back

• Shyam Sundar

Shyam Sundar is from a small village in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. A serious accident once left him bedridden, but he recovered and developed a strong interest in mathematics and technology.

Now, he studies Mathematics and Scientific Computing at IIT Kanpur. During his time at the university, Shyam has worked on several software development projects.

His current goal is to join a leading software company where he can apply his technical skills and continue learning. Growing up in a rural area, Shyam understands the challenges of accessing quality education. He believes in the power of learning and wants to contribute to creating more opportunities for students and professionals with disabilities

• Siva Sai Yeswanth Parala

Siva Sai Yeswanth is a fourth-year Computer Science and Engineering student at IIT Kharagpur. As a student, he's developed a strong interest in algorithms and emerging technologies.

Growing up, Siva learned to approach challenges directly. His current goal is to work on technological solutions that can create practical opportunities. Siva is interested in developing tech that addresses specific societal needs.

In the coming years, Siva plans to dive deeper into software development and explore innovative tech domains. He's particularly interested in how technology can be designed to be more accessible and functional for diverse user groups.

• Suryakanta Behera

Suryakanta Behera is a final-year dual degree student at IIT Kharagpur. He is studying Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering. Originally from Balasore, Odisha, he has developed a strong interest in data analytics and AI/ML applications.

As a student with a vision-based disability, Suryakanta has encountered challenges in classroom learning. Outside of academics, he keeps himself active by playing badminton, hockey, and swimming.

His current focus is on continuing to build his skills in data analytics and technology.

• Vimal Kumar

Vimal Kumar is a final-year Civil Engineering student at IIT Kharagpur. Coming from a background where he had to strive to create opportunities for himself, Vimal has worked hard to pursue his education. His experience has taught him the value of hard work and supporting others.

During his time at IIT Kharagpur, Vimal has achieved several notable accomplishments. He cracked the IIT JEE and secured All India Rank 02 at TATA Steel's National Creativity Olympiad. As an active NSS volunteer, he has been involved in community work and raising awareness about government schemes.

Vimal's academic path has been marked by consistent effort and practical problem-solving. He wants to work in a field that allows him to apply his engineering skills and contribute to meaningful projects.