A local high school senior is making a national impact through her extraordinary leadership and advocacy for the visually impaired. Akshara Raparla, a senior at Downingtown STEM Academy, is not just a student; she’s a changemaker.
As the Co-Founder and Youth CEO of the Drishti Foundation USA, Raparla has led a remarkable movement to uplift blind and visually impaired individuals across the country. Under her leadership, the foundation has mobilized 95 youth volunteers in three states, launched over 100 community initiatives, and raised more than $60,000 for accessible education and support services.
Her efforts have included recording audiobooks, teaching Braille, organizing inclusive community programs, and volunteering internationally in Nepal. In a bold show of commitment, Raparla even rappelled down a 10-story building in June 2025 for the Eye Drop fundraiser, generating $26,000 in donations to fund life-changing services for the visually impaired.
Raparla’s dedication has earned widespread recognition — including multiple awards, four Gold President’s Volunteer Service Awards, and an official acknowledgment on the Pennsylvania Senate floor.
Through her work with Drishti Foundation, Raparla has helped provide scholarships, training programs, and assistive tools that empower visually impaired individuals to thrive independently.
“Our motto is driven by Helen Keller’s words, ‘Because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.’ Every service helps, however big or small.” Drishti Foundation USA said via their website.
As she prepares to graduate, Akshara Raparla continues to champion inclusion, accessibility, and youth-led impact. Her story serves as a powerful reminder to the Downingtown community that age is no barrier to leadership!
Learn more about Drishti Foundation and how to support its mission here.
