JA 18 Under 18 2025
ATMAN PATEL
Through his business, WhatMyStory by Story Crafters, Atman fosters a love of reading and self-worth with personalized stories. Developed through the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) program, these books feature readers as the main characters/heroes. After winning first place out of 2,600 submissions in the 2024 NFTE Capital Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, Atman aims to expand WhatMyStory.com and enhance its use of AI in education. He also launched a project at Francis Scott Key Elementary/Middle School, where middle school students earn service hours by reading Story Crafters books to younger children. With three successful grants, Atman plans to provide free books to underserved communities. A top student-athlete, Atman also volunteers with the BAPS Washington, D.C. Chapter. He hopes to attend Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, continuing his pursuit of excellence.
“Atman’s commitment to individuals, his community, and the nation is a true definition of entrepreneurial mindset and spirit.”
—Deneen McDonald, teacher