In a time where global youth movements are taking center stage, few voices are as electrifying and impactful as that of Tarina Kaur Ahuja. At just 19 years old, she stands tall as a multi-prestigious, award-winning American activist—carving out new roads for institutional empathy and justice. Tarina’s mission is bold and clear: to amplify the voices of the traditionally silenced and create inclusive platforms where everyone is seen, heard, and empowered. Her story is one of courage, compassion, and unparalleled leadership.
Born in the vibrant city of Chicago, Tarina is currently a student at Harvard University. But she is far more than just a student. She is a changemaker, a builder of dreams, and a voice for the voiceless. Her energy is tireless, and her vision is fierce. Whether she’s serving her community, leading national initiatives, or inspiring the next generation of leaders, Tarina exemplifies what it means to be a transformative force in the modern world.
Founding with Purpose: The Beginning of Young Khalsa Girls
Tarina’s journey of leadership began when most children are still learning to navigate the world. At just 10 years old, she co-founded her first nonprofit organization—Young Khalsa Girls. Rooted in the Sikh principle of sewa, which means selfless service, the organization was founded with the intent to empower young girls to become change agents in their communities. It’s a grassroots, girl-led movement that encourages compassion, service, and action.
Through Young Khalsa Girls, Tarina created a nurturing environment where young girls could come together, serve others, and speak up for justice. The organization has grown into a powerful community force, known for organizing impactful initiatives, donation drives, and community outreach programs. Even in her earliest efforts, Tarina’s leadership was evident—purposeful, inclusive, and transformative.
Her ability to see potential in others and empower them from such a young age speaks volumes about her character. For Tarina, leadership has never been about standing above others—it’s always been about standing with them.
Adapting Through Adversity: The Birth of The Greater Good Initiative
The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for millions around the world, and for Tarina, it became a catalyst for even greater impact. During her senior year of high school, when most students were focused on navigating remote learning, Tarina turned her attention to public service on a national scale. Recognizing the urgent need for youth involvement in shaping policy, she co-founded The Greater Good Initiative, a youth-led policy think tank.
The organization brings together over 140 young leaders from across the United States and gives them the tools to research, write, and advocate for sustainable policy solutions. It covers critical areas including the environment, education, civil rights, public health, and the economy. What makes this initiative stand out is its commitment to not just conversation but action. Under Tarina’s leadership, young people are drafting actual policies, connecting with lawmakers, and reshaping systems that affect millions.
The Greater Good Initiative reflects Tarina’s belief that young voices should not only be heard—they should be influential. It proves that when given the opportunity and the resources, young people can drive forward some of the most meaningful change in society.
A Lifelong Commitment to Gender Equity
One of the core pillars of Tarina’s activism is gender equity. Her efforts consistently center around breaking down barriers for women and girls and ensuring they have a seat at the tables where decisions are made. She passionately believes that diversity in leadership leads to stronger, more empathetic outcomes—and she’s spent her life proving that theory in practice.
Whether through grassroots initiatives or policy advocacy, Tarina has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for women to lead and be recognized for their strengths. Her advocacy is inclusive and intersectional, addressing not only gender, but also race, religion, and socioeconomic status.
This tireless dedication has earned her global recognition. She was honored with the Youth Hero’s Award by the International Association for Youth and Students for Peace—an award received by only two individuals from the United States. She was also recognized as a Civic Superhero by Civics Unplugged, celebrating her extraordinary dedication to civic engagement and public service.
Shaping the Future at Harvard University
Tarina’s activism did not slow down when she entered Harvard—it evolved. Today, she serves as the co-chair of the CIVICS program at the Institute of Politics, where she works to educate and inspire students about the importance of civic engagement from a young age. Her passion for policy and leadership also led to her election as a representative on Harvard’s Undergraduate Council, the student government body that plays a key role in shaping campus policies.
Beyond her academic responsibilities, Tarina serves as the outreach director for South Asian Americans in Public Service. In this role, she connects young South Asian students and professionals with leadership opportunities, public policy careers, and advocacy networks. Her work ensures that underrepresented voices are included in key conversations about governance and justice.
Tarina is also deeply involved in the cultural and intellectual life of the university. She’s a member of Harvard Sikhs, where she continues to celebrate and share her heritage, and a passionate participant in Harvard Bhangra, keeping the vibrancy of South Asian dance alive on campus. She is a delegate in World Model United Nations, where she represents Harvard on international platforms to deliberate and debate global issues with peers from around the world.
A New Kind of Leader for a New Era
What sets Tarina apart isn’t just the scope of her work—it’s the soul behind it. Her leadership style is grounded in empathy, inclusion, and authenticity. She doesn’t seek the spotlight; she creates space for others to shine. Whether mentoring younger students, building coalitions, or speaking at global forums, her approach is always rooted in compassion and connection.
Tarina envisions a world where empathy is institutionalized—not treated as an afterthought, but as a core component of how decisions are made and systems are designed. She dreams of a society where kindness is embedded in governance and where every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to lead.
The Journey Ahead
At just 19, Tarina Kaur Ahuja has already achieved more than most do in a lifetime. Yet, when she speaks about the future, her eyes light up—not with pride, but with possibility. For her, the journey is far from over. She sees endless opportunities to build bridges, challenge norms, and continue the work of creating a more just, empathetic, and inclusive world.
Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that age is never a limitation when the heart is full and the vision is clear. Tarina is not just a future leader—she is a present-day force for change. And with each step she takes, she brings the world a little closer to the kind of future we all deserve.
Let the name Tarina Kaur Ahuja be a beacon of what one young, determined, and deeply empathetic individual can accomplish. Her story is more than just inspiring—it is a call to action.
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