Youth Leadership Workshop

Vijay Nandakumar is an entrepreneurial, science-driven leader with over 20 years of experience in corporate strategy, analytics product development, and global delivery operations, specializing in AI and digital-first solutions. He co-founded D Cube Analytics to transform BioPharma commercial services with cloud-native, data-driven tools and has scaled global operations at IQVIA and D Cube. He is a founding partner at InnoGrowth Ventures that focuses on AI, Biotech, and High Tech. Vijay serves on boards of multiple companies and is an active member of the local business and entrepreneurship community.

Dr. Chhavi Chauhan is a biomedical researcher, global thought leader, and mentor, especially for women & minorities. With expertise spanning scientific research, scholarly communication, science policy, and medical education, she serves on numerous boards driving equitable healthcare, equitable education, & responsible innovation. Recognized internationally as a speaker and advocate, her vision is to deliver equitable, personalized healthcare worldwide. She has been featured in AI Makers' 150 AI & Analytics Leaders & Influencers (2021), the 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics (2022), and the Top 100 Women of the Future (2023), and was a Finalist for the Women in AI Researcher Award (2023).

Attorney​Aboli Alurkar is a licensed attorney and a graduate of the Duke University School of Law. Her legal practice focuses on advising global technology companies through complex commercial transactions, data privacy  and the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence.​Beyond that Aboli is committed to her community. She served on various non-profit boards and actively volunteers with organizations dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and providing career guidance to students.

Dr.Jayashankar (Jay) Swaminathan is a globally recognized thought leader in productivity and innovation within business operations. He teaches courses on operations, global supply chain management, technology, and value chain innovation. He has served in various leadership roles at UNC Kenan-Flagler, including senior associate dean for academic affairs, associate dean of Global Executive MBA programs, director of the Global Business Center, and area chair of operations. He has served on advisory boards for numerous firms over the last 30 years. He is an inducted fellow of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Science (INFORMS), the Manufacturing and Service Operations Management Society (MSOM), and the Production and Operations Management Society (POMS).

Kamalakkannan Kumaravelu is an entrepreneur and technology leader with extensive experience in innovation and building businesses. Having successfully transitioned from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, he brings valuable firsthand lessons on taking risks, navigating uncertainty, and building with resilience. At the Youth Leadership Workshop, he will share his journey and practical insights to inspire youth to think boldly, embrace challenges, and turn ideas into action.

Ritesh Patel is an accomplished healthcare entrepreneur and clinical pharmacy leader focused on transforming patient care through innovative, collaborative healthcare solutions. His work with In-Clinic Rx and Axil Health centers on expanding pharmacist-led care, improving patient outcomes, and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Nikin Shah is the Co-Founder and General Partner of Front Porch Venture Partners, investing in and mentoring entrepreneurs across the Southeast. A seasoned entrepreneur and former Co-CEO of medical-device company Polyzen, he brings firsthand experience in building and scaling businesses, venture investing, and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. He is also a Duke Fuqua MBA alumnus and guest lecturer/mentor at universities including Duke, UNC, and NC State.

A seasoned healthcare leader and entrepreneur with 15+ years of experience driving innovation, organizational growth, and improved patient outcomes. Passionate about leveraging technology, entrepreneurship, and people-centered leadership to build impactful organizations and transform healthcare delivery.

Siddharth Munshi is an accomplished nuclear energy consultant and entrepreneur with nearly two decades of experience supporting major nuclear power stations across the United States. He is also a seasoned options trader and financial educator, passionate about sharing practical insights on investing, wealth management, and financial decision-making. A long-time USA resident and actively supports the spiritual community.