DIYA SARAH GANDHI

When Diya accompanied her older sister to Baltimore Saints, a program that teaches ice hockey to neurodivergent children, she found a calling—to advocate for children and adults with Down Syndrome (DS). During COVID-19, she started an outdoor walking club for children with DS and led more than 30 sessions across Greater Baltimore. She also created Sunlit Sonatas, where she plays the harp for children with DS, using music for therapeutic engagement, and she is active in support of Camp PALS, which offers inclusive camp programs, and is a member of the Committee for the Maryland Down Syndrome Association. At just 16, Diya collaborated with researchers at NIH on a published paper on treatment protocols for those with DS; she was the only high school student to present at the American Neurological Association annual meeting in Baltimore.

“From raising money through a variety of fundraising opportunities to bringing her peers directly to volunteer sites in the community, Diya walks the walk and encourages others to come with her and develop their own love for volunteering.” —Kristen Hall, teacher, The Bryn Mawr School

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