Our final ASWYSI episode of 2025!

In this episode of Across STEM with YSI, Abeer Iftikhar speaks with Aanyaa Garatikar, a young changemaker, science communicator, and the Founder of the Ballerina Project India. At just 13 years old, Aanyaa is already reshaping how we think about science education…blending creativity and compassion to explore how the human body, health, and society are deeply interconnected.

Throughout the conversation, Aanyaa shares how her journey into STEM began through something that might not come to mind at first when you think of STEM: ballet.

What started as a passion for movement gradually evolved into a fascination with the science behind how the body functions. As Aanyaa learned more about the physical demands placed on dancers, she became increasingly interested in topics such as injury prevention, mental health, and body image, especially among young people. These experiences ultimately inspired her to launch the Ballerina Project India, a platform that uses science and storytelling to challenge harmful norms in dance culture while promoting wellness and informed dialogue.

The 35-minute conversation also explores Aanyaa’s growing interest in biology beyond human health, including sustainability and bio-inspired innovation that can shape the future of planet Earth. She speaks about her curiosity surrounding mycelium, algae, and biodegradable materials, and how learning about these systems reshaped her understanding of environmental responsibility. Through projects like The Petri Dish, Aanyaa aims to make complex scientific ideas accessible and engaging, helping others see science not as something distant or intimidating, but as something deeply connected to everyday life.

Throughout the episode, Aanyaa also reflects on the importance of youth voices in science and the need to approach STEM with empathy and creativity with an emphasis on the value of interdisciplinary thinking. Her story is one of curiosity, of purpose, and how interdisciplinary thinking and community can drive meaningful change, reminding listeners that science is a lot more than just discovery.

Listen to episode 16 of Across STEM with YSI to learn more about Aanyaa’s incredible journey so far and all that she’s at such a young age.

Follow and rate Across STEM with YSI on Spotify for more inspiring episodes coming your way in 2026!