Carmel High student launches nonprofit, raises money for clean water initiative in Ethiopia

Carmel High student Riya Koya recently launched a nonprofit organization focused on clean water initiatives in Ethiopia.

With family in the area, Koya said she grew up hearing about issues with water accessibility. She has wanted to help for years and was finally able to create the organization this summer.

Koya’s reach has expanded quickly. She recently launched an ambassador program as a part of the group’s fundraising efforts, currently composed of 52 high school and college-aged students.

“Obviously, we founded it in Carmel,” Koya explained. “But what’s really great is that there are people from all over America … New York, California, Nebraska, Maryland, and also some people from Nigeria and Africa, which is really cool, that are virtually helping.”

Ambassadors and other members of the nonprofit work to raise money in their neighborhoods, which goes toward things like clean water tablets.

While the early days of the nonprofit focused solely on fundraising, Koya has shifted to focus on growth within the organization as well. 

“I would say now moving forward, I’m kind of focused on the education of the water crisis and also youth empowerment,” Koya said. “I want all the students to have the chance to become leaders.”

Wishing4Wells has already been able to rehabilitate two water pumps that give water to 2200 homes and send clean water tablets to hundreds of families.

Contact Reporting Intern Erika Kovach at ekovach@wfyi.org.