Our Team.

Anishka Duvvuri

Hey there! I'm a high schooler at Basis Independent Silicon Valley and the founder of this nonprofit. I love  to listen music (Taylor Swift mostly), play my guitar, and journal. I also love walking my dog :)

Growing up in my area was not easy for me; I struggled with my self-esteem and I did not have the best of friends. Over the years, I have learned a lot of lessons, one being "you can never un-improve but only improve in the long-term." This piece of advice I gave myself during some self-reflection time really motivated me and stopped me from spiraling and procrastinating when it came to homework. Also, I learned a couple of things about being healthy. I used to ask myself, "What does it mean to "work hard" while balancing out work and relaxation?" Time and stress management does not come easy to anyone, but over time, you can learn how to manage these. And when you do, you will be much happier. 

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Based on my insights, I would love to be your big buddy. One of the reasons I started this program was I felt the impact of advice on mental health.  And more than anything, I can't wait to pass on my lessons and experiences and just make a lifelong friend! 

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If you are interested in having me as your big buddy, you can fill out the questionnaire, which can be found on the "Buddy Program" page. If you have any questions for me, you can email me at anishka.duvvuri@gmail.com. 

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Thanks!

~Anishka

Pragyaa Bodapati

Hi there, I am a high schooler at Basis Independent Silicon Valley and the Head of operations for this nonprofit. In my free time I really enjoy listening to music (I listen to a LOT of artists but some of my favorites are Selena Gomez, Sofia Carson, BTS, and some Telegu songs), I LOVE  to draw and read (especially Agatha Christie and Harry Potter :)) and finally I love to bike or just walk outside especially when it's windy or a little rainy.

As I progressed through school, I struggled with confidence as I was worried if I was doing enough. This constantly brought me down, creating self-doubt and hurting my self-esteem. Through this process, I learned that comparing myself to others or letting every single bad performance get to me would only continue to bring me down. And yes I'll admit it was really hard to shift my thought process. However, I began to try to think what I can change or I began to try and find ways to move on and improve. 

Because of my experiences, I am excited and willing to become a big buddy as I can understand what some may be going through. School is challenging and I know that it was really nice to have people to talk to when I was struggling. People like my friends were able to help me and I would love to pass it on and be able to help others. I have tutored underprivileged communities as well as worked with kids who have special needs so I have experience working with kids from many age groups. Mental health is not something to push aside, and I believe that sometimes talking to someone and having someone you can relate to makes it easier to open up. My friends and family have supported me and now I would love to support others who are struggling as well. This will be such an exciting opportunity to meet new people while also making a difference.

 If you have any questions for me, you can email me at pragyaa2018@outlook.com and I hope I get the chance to meet some of you :)

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Thanks

- Pragyaa

Srilalitha Nair 

Hi! I’m Sri, a junior at Basis Independent Silicon Valley and a program manager for this nonprofit. In my free time, I love to read, dance, and sing! 

Being a high schooler in the Bay Area is not easy. There is a lot of competition and stress to be the best at everything and to never settle with mediocrity. This is especially why mental health is very important. Without good mental standing, in an environment like this, it’s tough to get much done. With ample AP classes and a big workload, mental health is often overlooked, or even looked down upon. It may not seem like a big deal, but when you actively try to make sure you’re not getting burnt out (by taking breaks and knowing what your limit is), everything becomes much easier, and even the hardest tasks are possible.

This is where big buddies come in. As a big buddy, I can answer any questions you have, or even just be a friend to talk to :). Even talking about everything and letting it all out can be a great way to destress! I hope we can have a wonderful time together :)

Thanks!

- Sri

Margaret Lu

Hi!! I'm Margaret, a highschool (upcoming junior) student, who loves to have fun, work hard, and enjoy the little moments in life! I'm from the sunny state of California and I love the outdoors! Some of my favorite things to do are reading, playing table tennis, hiking and listening to music.

While growing up, I struggled a lot with my confidence and self image due to bullying and negative remarks from the people I surrounded myself with. I tried to change everything about myself but over time I slowly realized that you live life for yourself and not for anyone else. I learned to work hard to prove to myself that I am able to accomplish things and was slowly able to regain my confidence. Currently I am attending BISV, a school with a rigorous course load, and I have learned so much from the years I have been there. From time management, stress, and classes to other things like sleep and mental health; I am able to give helpful advice or any support for those who want someone to chat with.

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Everyone needs a friend who they can ask for advice from, have fun with, and get support from. As your buddy, I hope that I will be able to give support if you're ever struggling with anything (seriously anything) or if you need any advice! Looking forwards to all the fun we'll have together!! :)

-Margaret Lu