“I started volunteering at 15 when I was in my tenth grade. What began as a weekend thing has now become a big part of my life. I’m currently in my third year of BTech.
The idea of not wasting food came from my friend Malleshwar Rao, the founder of Don’t Waste Food NGO. Coming from a simple family, not wasting food was a lesson from my folks and friends. I remember our daily routine of collecting extra food and taking it to the nearby orphanage.
Apart from fighting food waste, I’m into environmental projects and planting trees through Nela Thalli, my initiative. I’ve planted around five lakh saplings and seed balls, doing my bit for the environment. My volunteering isn’t just about that; it’s also about spreading awareness in slums, organizing food and blanket drives, and helping kids in government schools.
My journey with Don’t Waste Food has been life-changing. What started as an idea—sharing excess food—has become a daily thing. Volunteering is now a part of who I am, and giving out 200 meals every day brings me pride. It’s been over four years, and the journey keeps inspiring me.
Volunteering lets me connect with different people, and I’m thankful to contribute to our nation. Sure, there were challenges—some thought I should focus on a job that makes money, not social work. But I believe real change comes from personal responsibility, not just talking. Together, we can achieve anything, and I’m committed to being a part of that change.”
- Chanti, Student and Social Worker