Last month in Bangalore, India, I had the privilege of meeting someone who reminded me why I do what I do—and why I continue to believe in a brighter, more equitable future. Her name is Deepti, a 22-year-old undergraduate student who also happened to be our guide for a walking tour through the historic Basavanagudi neighborhood.

Deepti works for her aunt’s travel company, and from the moment she greeted our group, her joyful spirit, sharp intellect, and quiet confidence were impossible to miss. As we strolled past temples, street vendors, and centuries-old trees, she shared pieces of her own story—one that left a lasting impression on all of us.

Currently studying international economics, Deepti is pouring her energy into a capstone project that explores how AI technology can help India’s farmers increase productivity. She spoke with heartfelt conviction about the vital role farmers play in the country’s economy—and the urgent need to support them in an age of rapid technological advancement. In India, agriculture employs a significant portion of the population, yet many of these workers are left behind as the world advances toward modernization.

Deepti envisions a future where that changes.

By harnessing AI to predict weather patterns, improve irrigation systems, and increase crop efficiency, she believes farming can become both more productive and more sustainable. Her ideas aren’t just academic—they’re rooted in a deep concern for her country and a desire to see communities thrive.

What struck me most about Deepti wasn’t just her knowledge or ambition—it was the hope she carries. Her passion, creativity, and determination to uplift others make her a powerful catalyst for change, right in her own backyard.

If you’re feeling discouraged about the state of the world, I encourage you to spend time with young thinkers and dreamers like Deepti. Listen to their ideas. Ask about their goals. Let their energy remind you that hope is far from lost—it’s alive and growing in the hearts of a new generation.

Know a young person who inspires you? Share this with them—and tell them how much their vision matters.