Sewa International USA’s National Youth Convention Inspires Youth to Lead and Serve

Sugar Land, TX (September 15, 2026): Sewa International USA held its 6th National Youth
Convention (NYC 2026) virtually on August 30, with about 587 participants and several hundred
more joining via social media from across the United States and around the world. This year,
Sewa LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) engaged more than 1,700 participants
across 27 chapters, who contributed more than 70,000 service hours.

NYC 2026 gave youth a platform to share their experiences, celebrate their achievements, and
discuss their role in shaping America’s future. The convention celebrated Sewa youth leadership
and service through Sewa LEAD, which helps high school students develop leadership skills and

serve their communities. The convention brought participants together under the theme “250
Years of America’s Independence: Honoring the Past, Leading the Future.”

Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International, welcomed the delegates and said, “Sewa
is about selfless service. Our strength comes from unity, compassion, and leadership. I appreciate
the dedication of our youth and encourage you to continue serving your communities with
purpose and commitment.”

Actively Participate to Shape Future

In his opening address, Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, U.S. Representative for Virginia’s
10th Congressional District, emphasized civic engagement, youth leadership, and community
service. Drawing from his own public service journey, he said, “Young leaders have a
responsibility to society. Use your voice, embrace opportunities, and actively help shape the
future. Lead with purpose and integrity.”

The LEAD Alumni Plenary featured former participants sharing how Sewa LEAD shaped their
leadership and personal, academic, and professional growth. Their stories highlighted the lasting
value of service and community involvement and encouraged current students to make service a
lifelong commitment.

Pursue Your Purpose

Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker, Aakash Selvaraj, Founder and CEO of Sastrah.ai, said,
“Identify real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, build strong teams, and pursue
your purpose with perseverance. Innovation can help address critical challenges and improve
lives.”

The delegates of NYC 2026 passed a resolution titled “Youth Commitment to Shaping the Future
of America.” The resolution passed with 99 percent of the vote, reflecting Sewa youth’s
commitment to liberty, equality, inclusion, democracy, community service, civic engagement,
and shaping America’s future. Youth from all four Sewa regions also showcased community
service activities from chapters nationwide.
The third session featured 10 Leadership Lab sessions on issues and opportunities relevant to
today’s youth. Distinguished panelists led these discussions, sharing practical insights and real-
world perspectives on the challenges facing young leaders.

Pursue American & Indian Values

Special Guest and Closing Speaker, Sarika Gehani, Sewa Board Director, said, “Embrace both
Indian and American values, bring your authentic self to leadership, and carry the spirit of Sewa
beyond events through everyday acts of kindness, compassion, and responsibility.”
A highlight of this year’s convention was the participation of international youth delegates as
observers, with Sewa Nigeria youth in attendance.