Teen Launches Innovative Initiative Originating from School Project: ‘The Issue Was Bigger Than I Initially Realized’

Rising to the Challenge: How One Teen is Leading a Revolution Against Food Waste

In an era where environmental consciousness is becoming increasingly vital, 13-year-old Shrusti Amula from Maryland is making remarkable strides in the fight against food waste and food insecurity. Instead of spending her summertime passively scrolling through social media, Amula is actively spearheading community initiatives aimed at creating sustainable solutions for one of America’s pressing issues: food waste.

The journey began as a middle school science project, which has since blossomed into the Rise N Shine Foundation—a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing food waste and enhancing food accessibility. Through innovative recovery, redistribution, and composting programs, the foundation operates in 45 schools across Montgomery County, with composting efforts extending to an additional 15 educational institutions.

A staggering statistic highlights the urgency of Amula’s mission: the United States wastes nearly 40% of its food supply annually, much of which remains edible. This shocking reality exists alongside the growing crisis of food insecurity that affects millions of families nationwide. By redirecting surplus food to those in need, the Rise N Shine Foundation not only combats hunger but also prevents excess food from contributing to landfill waste, where it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Additionally, Rise N Shine’s composting initiatives provide a second life to food scraps, transforming organic waste into nutrient-rich soil for gardens and green spaces. This dual focus on food recovery and composting illustrates a holistic approach to sustainability that is both impactful and educational.

Amula’s efforts have garnered significant recognition. In 2025, she was honored with the Stephen J. Brady Stop Hunger Scholarship by Sodexo and received numerous accolades from local, national, and international organizations. Among her distinctions are the prestigious Points of Light Award for service, the EPA’s President’s Environmental Youth Award, and recognition as one of L’Oréal’s Women of Worth.

As her foundation continues to expand its reach, Amula emphasizes the importance of education in promoting sustainable practices. Her initiatives encourage students to take small yet impactful steps towards environmental responsibility—such as saving leftover food and composting.

Reflecting on her transformative experience, Amula expressed on LinkedIn, “Being a part of this has been so impactful. I am excited for our next steps and all that we will accomplish in the future!”

For those inspired by Amula’s journey and seeking to make a difference within their communities, the message is clear: take local action, as every small effort contributes to a larger goal of sustainability. The Rise N Shine Foundation is not just a charity; it represents a growing movement of awareness and action towards food waste reduction and environmental stewardship.

As the world grapples with the increasing challenges posed by climate change, grassroots efforts like those initiated by Shrusti Amula serve as powerful reminders of the impact that youth can have in driving social and environmental change.