About Me
Entrepreneur, U.S. Presidential Scholar, Community-Driven Technologist
I never set out to build a global nonprofit. Growing up in a small town as the child of Indian immigrants, I watched my parents run our small business, work late shifts, and stretch every dollar. They taught me more about managing money over dinner than I learned in class. But in school, I realized most kids never got those basics—despite seeing financial stress everywhere.
Testimonials & Recommendations
“Ashwin's ability to connect, communicate, and motivate people are strengths that are difficult to teach and find. His content and personal videos were impressive, and his story amazing and interesting.”
Achievements
Recognition for leadership, advocacy, and impact across education, entrepreneurship, and social change.
Only Student to Testify on Three WA Bills
Financial Literacy Legislative Advocacy
Sole student advocate to testify before the Washington State Legislature on HB 1915, SB 5819, and HB 1285. Drove HB 1915 to unanimous 97-0 House passage; Senate Chair requested organizational blueprints. Featured on statewide media.
U.S. Presidential Scholar
Highest honor for academic excellence
Ronald Reagan Leadership Medal
National youth leadership recognition
Taco Bell Ambition Accelerator
Changemaker
Youth entrepreneurship program selection
WASA Student Leadership Award
Washington State student advocacy excellence
Featured in a Book
Gen Z Teens Take Action
Story profiled in national publication
500+ Article Features
Media Coverage
National press and media recognition
Portfolio
Building impactful solutions at the intersection of education, technology, and social change.
All Teens Financial Academy (ATFA)
501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Comprehensive financial literacy education platform reaching 100,000+ high school students across 150+ countries through innovative curriculum and community partnerships.
Key Achievements
- Seattle Times, NBC KNDU, Yahoo Canada features
- Grants: Banner Bank, HFG Trust, Kiwanis
- Original research: 324 high school students
- Points of Light national recognition
InstaTrain
AI-Powered Hospitality Training
Patent-pending AI technology reducing hotel training costs by 90%. Successfully raised pre-seed funding backed by Ab Initio Ventures and A-1 Hospitality.
Key Achievements
- Patent-pending AI training technology
- Led 90% cost reduction in hotel training
- Backed by Ab Initio Ventures & A-1 Hospitality
- UC Launch Accelerator (Spring 2025), Berkeley StEP $500 winner
Personal Investment Management
Real Estate • Tech • OMASJ Portfolio
Quantitative investment across real estate and technology with diversified, risk-adjusted portfolio strategy.
Key Achievements
- Real estate investment & management
- Technology sector equity positions
- OMASJ diversified portfolio strategy
- Quantitative risk assessment models
Ready to Build Something Amazing?
Whether you're looking for partnerships, investment opportunities, or want to collaborate on impactful projects, I'd love to connect.
Research Studies
Below you will find all my research studies, papers, and articles.
2023 ATFA Financial Literacy Research: Executive Summary
A data-driven examination of financial literacy education gaps, surveying 324 high school students across multiple districts. This research directly supported testimony before the Washington State Legislature and contributed to statewide policy change.
Key Insights from the Journey
Embrace Your Origin Story
Being first-generation isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower that brings unique perspective to every challenge.
Take the First Step—Start Before You Feel Ready
The best time to begin advocating for change is when you feel least prepared. Authenticity trumps expertise every time.
Scale Through Stories
Data opens doors, but personal stories change hearts. Both are essential for lasting impact.
Life Transitions
Personal reflections on difficult decisions, entrepreneurial lessons learned, and the courage to change course when your mission calls for it.
Why I Changed My Mind About Leaving School After My Mentor Died
Read Personal Reflection (5–10 min read)
Lessons from Life Transitions
Honor Your Core Mission
Sometimes the hardest decision is walking away from something good to pursue something that aligns better with your deeper purpose.
Timing Matters More Than Perfect Plans
The right opportunity at the wrong time can still be the wrong choice. Learning to recognize when to pivot is crucial for long-term success.
Growth Through Difficult Decisions
The most formative experiences often come from the choices that challenge us most, even when they lead away from conventional success.
Going Through a Transition?
Major life and career decisions are never easy. If you're navigating a difficult choice or transition, I'd be happy to share my experience and listen to yours.
Let's ConnectPress & Media
Media coverage and recognition for educational advocacy, legislative impact, and community initiatives.
Featured In
Featured In
Gen Z Teens Take Action
Featured Changemaker Profile
Selected as a featured changemaker in the national anthology highlighting young advocates and their impact on society.
Media Inquiries
Available for interviews about educational equity, youth advocacy, financial literacy, and the intersection of technology and social impact.
Contact for MediaFeatured Podcast
Listen to conversations about educational equity, entrepreneurship, and building impact through technology and advocacy.
From Student to Presidential Scholar: Building Educational Impact
An in-depth conversation about educational equity, youth advocacy, and the journey from testifying before Washington State Legislature to reaching 100,000+ students through financial literacy education.
Let's Connect
Ready to build something amazing together? I'd love to hear from you.