Ariel Wile ’25
What’s your big idea? A sustainable clothing brand focused on fighting fast fashion by upcycling secondhand garments to create one-of-a-kind pieces.
Why is it important? Today’s endless production of cheap, unsustainable clothing takes a toll on the planet in many ways, including pollution, unfair labor conditions, and low wages, among others. This sustainable brand promotes individuality and expression by challenging the fast fashion cycle.
Krusha Mehta ’25
What’s your big idea? I come from a family that has been creating artisanal Indian jewelry for the past 200 years. I’m continuing this legacy by bringing jewelry with a modern twist to the West, to have conversations that share the stories, history, and cultural aspects of this tradition.
Why is it important? For centuries, traditional Indian jewelry has suffered the effects of colonialism; from duplicates on Amazon to celebrities on the red carpets, the customs of this important heritage have served as the inspiration for designers, but have remained uncredited. My authentic pieces will use ethically sourced, conflict-free stones, and will allow me to share the tradition of Indian jewelry in a way that facilitates appreciation, rather than appropriation.
Charlotte Naftal ’24
What’s your big idea? A website that connects makeup artists with clients who are seeking services spanning special occasions, film, theatre, and more. The site also serves as a resource for artists to build community and engage in ongoing professional development through workshops and networking events.
Why is it important? I have witnessed the challenges of finding work in an industry where artists experience the frustrations of clique-y colleagues and competition for jobs that are often offered via word-of-mouth. My site offers a level playing field for finding opportunities, and creates a culture of mutual support.
Gail Andersen ’25
What’s your big idea? Transformative Treasures is a line of jewelry for the LGBTQIA+ community that provides subtle, subdued, and sustainable pieces that allow wearers to demonstrate pride in a safe way.
Why is it important? This collection offers jewelry to members of the LGBTQIA+ community who may not have the privilege or means of coming out to an accepting support system.
Christine Shen ’24
What’s your big idea? An app that will allow neurodivergent folks to customize their viewing experience of short-form video content while adhering to the industry standards of social media accessibility as put forth by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Why is it important? Neurodivergent people are underserved in the accessibility features on social media, leading to inequality in the user experience. My app will help bridge that gap, making sure that neurodivergent individuals have a voice in the accessibility features of short-form video content.
John Huang ’24
What’s your big idea? ReadOn is an app that gives readers easy access to thousands of stories through a platform that supports independent authors.
Why is it important? The app encourages authors to tell diverse stories that are often overlooked by mainstream publishers. A key feature of the app allows users to offer commentary and feedback to creators, which facilitates relationships between readers and writers.
