Maya Ajmera :- In the realm of social entrepreneurship, Maya Ajmera stands as a beacon of inspiration, a dynamic force steering the course of positive change. The President and CEO of the Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News, Maya’s story is a testament to resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to empowering the world’s most vulnerable children and youth.
Maya Ajmera: A Chronicle of Discovery
Maya Ajmera’s journey begins in eastern North Carolina, where she was raised by Indian immigrants. Her early exposure to diverse cultures and backgrounds laid the foundation for a life dedicated to inclusion and understanding. Graduating from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham marked the beginning of her educational prowess.
A biology graduate from Bryn Mawr College and a master’s degree holder in public policy from the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University, Maya’s academic trajectory hinted at a profound commitment to bridging the gap between science and societal well-being.
The Genesis of a Visionary: The Global Fund for Children
In 1994, at the age of 25, Maya Ajmera founded The Global Fund for Children (GFC) after a transformative trip to India on a Rotary Fellowship. Witnessing impoverished children being taught on a train platform ignited a spark in Maya, diverting her from the path to medical school. Instead, she embarked on a journey to support innovative grassroots efforts for vulnerable children globally.
Under Maya’s leadership, GFC distributed nearly $25 million to 500 grassroots organizations across 75 countries, impacting over seven million children. Her departure in 2011 marked a legacy of empowerment and sustainable change.
A Renaissance Woman: Diversifying Roles and Impact
Maya’s impact extends beyond GFC. As a professorial lecturer at Johns Hopkins University, a visiting scholar at Duke University, and the inaugural Social Entrepreneur in Residence for Duke University, she continues to shape minds and inspire change.
In 2014, Maya assumed the role of President and CEO of the Society for Science, propelling the organization to new heights with renowned science competitions and innovative STEM programs. Her ability to transform challenges into opportunities is evident in her role as the driving force behind a $100 million, 10-year sponsorship agreement with Regeneron for the Science Talent Search.
Maya Ajmera: A Literary Luminary and Philanthropic Force
Maya’s literary contributions are as profound as her philanthropic endeavours. Authoring over twenty children’s books, including “Children from Australia to Zimbabwe” and “To Be an Artist,” Maya weaves tales that transcend borders, promoting understanding and unity.
Her accolades, including the 2020 National Science Board Public Service Award and membership in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, reflect Maya’s unparalleled contributions to science, education, and philanthropy.
A Resounding Echo: Maya’s Impact on Global Philanthropy
Maya’s influence resonates globally. Board memberships for organizations like Echoing Green and Kids in Need of Defense, coupled with her role in the Obama presidential transition’s Technology, Innovation, and Government Reform Policy Working Group, showcase her commitment to civic engagement and social progress.
Maya Ajmera’s life story has been featured on CNN, The Oprah Winfrey Show, and NPR, among others, underscoring her status as a trailblazer in social entrepreneurship.
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