Hello everyone! I am Anish Konjeti, and I am currently one of the Scholars in JRAD. I go to J. R. Tucker High School as a freshman, and it has been really fun so far. As an instructor in the 2026 version of JRAD’s camp, teaching the 6th graders, it was amazing. I got to meet so many new people that I’ve only talked to online from JRAD, mentored students, and watched them grow throughout the week, and I can’t wait to continue learning and teaching in JRAD. 

I originally got affiliated with JRAD by attending the 2025 version, and not only did I learn a lot, but I also had a lot of fun. Doing the Model UN club at my school always felt repetitive and boring, but being part of the JRAD summer camp, I felt like my public speaking skills and confidence grew exponentially. I learned all kinds of stuff, from debate 2 v 2’s and improvisation, so I was excited when I learned I could be part of JRAD’s team too and continue that experience for other students.

JRAD has expanded a lot in the last few months. Not only have we launched the most successful edition of JRAD’s summer camp with 100+ students and a keynote speaker, but we engage in community outreach like the IAVA Independence Day Event! With the JRAD booth being incredibly successful and impacting over 200 families, we got to help more people find their confidence in public speaking. 

We are also excited to introduce JRAD’s monthly workshops at the Twin Hickory Recreation Center. Join our email list to receive priority updates about registration! 

And perhaps one of the most exciting things for JRAD: landing a presenting space at Festival of India! It’s going to be great with fun mini workshops and presentations of what JRAD is all about and how to get involved.

JRAD is growing faster than ever with workshops, events, travel team, and our summer camp. With the new scholar program, I highly recommend reaching out and seeing how you can get involved in JRAD 2027. 

Please check our Instagram page out (@jr_diplomacy1) by the hardworking individuals in the Outreach team and donate to support our non-profit and help reach more kids find their inner voice.

Thanks for reading!

Anish