Empowering Healthcare One Village At a time.

Founder

Sreeja Sunkara

Hi! My name is Sreeja Sunkara, and I am studying molecular biology on the pre-medical track at the University of Pittsburgh. My passion for starting a healthcare-focused nonprofit comes from two core beliefs: human life is fragile, and we all have a responsibility to make a positive impact.

Growing up in a small town, it was easy to feel sheltered from the harsher realities many people face. However, through volunteering and gaining more exposure to healthcare and community service, I began to realize how many people lack access to the support, resources, and care they need. That realization pushed me to take action.

One value that has always guided me is the belief that whatever I do—whether through my future career, extracurricular activities, or personal passions—I should strive to leave a positive impact on my community. When the opportunity came to create a nonprofit focused on healthcare, I knew I wanted to pursue it. I was excited to begin this journey with my partner, Shritha Velaga, and work toward making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Founder

Shritha Velaga

Hello! My name is Shritha Velaga, and I am a college student at Ohio State University pursuing neuroscience and business on the pre-medical track. As a daughter of immigrants who grew up in Sweden and the United States, I was always aware of the fortunate life that I was given. As a young girl, seeing the impoverished communities around the world, especially from my parents’ motherland, India, I became strongly motivated to help the lives of those people who did not have the same luxuries that I had. When I entered my teenage years, I was inspired to research and learn about the stories of underprivileged communities, and I noticed the lack of action to help them. So, the idea was small, but by joining hands with my partner Sreeja, I was able to turn the small dream of little me, into an organization that would leave a positive footprint on this world. The creation of the Hospital Empowerment Network has allowed me to bring together my love for the medical field and my passion to make a difference in the world. The adventure and the journey have just started, and I encourage you to join us!