As a passionate advocate for mental health in the Asian community, Aani Nagaiah experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating mental wellness in an Asian immigrant family.

This journey inspired her to found Our Ode to You, a nonprofit that brings art and music to memory care facilities. Her involvement with ASPIRE (Asian Sisters Participating in Reaching Excellence) and her current pre-medicine research on mental health deepened her commitment to community.

Through Thriving Asians, Aani aimed to bridge the gap between cultural perspectives and mental health awareness - drawing on her personal experiences, and dedication to fostering understanding and support within the Asian community.

As a Youth Mental Health Ambassador, Aani developed a partnership with Arizona AANHPI for Equity. She facilitated the “Redefining Mental Health: A Foundation for Success” Workshop to students of the AZ AANHPI Youth Leadership Program - highlighting topics of mental health equity, and cultural and civic engagement as practices to support wellbeing.

She also served as a key voice on behalf of Asian youth at Community Listening Sessions on topics related to civic engagement, safe spaces, mentorship, and college application stress.

Aani continues to grow her leadership as a student at the University of Southern California, and as an emerging non-profit leader.