Latest news with #Vemulapalli
Los Angeles Times
13-02-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Student-led nonprofit aims to build community for people affected by cancer
Shreya Vemulapalli, a junior at The Harker School, founded nonprofit Cancel. Cancer. Culture. in 2023 to shed light on the stigma around cancer and foster open conversations. Through CCC, Vemulapalli strives to challenge how cancer is viewed after she lost her father to cancer. 'Going through that secondhand experience and being exposed to cancer for a large percentage of my life, it really taught me how cancer is viewed in society,' Vemulapalli said. One main topic Vemulapalli seeks to tackle is the limited narrative that often surrounds the disease. 'I think it's kind of a survivorship story where cancer is portrayed as this really huge battle,' Vemulapalli said. While many people hear about cancer survivor stories, the reality for many people like her father, is that not everyone beats cancer. 'I think that's a great story to tell, but I think that it's not the complete one,' she said. The stories of people who lost their lives to cancer deserve to be shared and can comfort others going through the same experience, Vemulapalli said. Having a community aids the journey through cancer. A central focus of CCC is to cultivate this community and make it accessible for those experiencing cancer. Vemulapalli said the experience can be very isolating for patients and their loved ones. 'Finding a community and people who have also gone through it … can kind of shift your mindset,' Vemulapalli said. Through CCC, Vemulapalli has received messages from individuals who have faced cancer either directly or from a secondhand perspective, further underscoring the widespread need for connection. Taking the first step in founding CCC was the hardest for Vemulapalli, she said. 'Vocalizing that story was definitely the biggest step,' she said. Reflecting on her hesitations, Vemulapalli recalled how she kept her story private, in fear that it made her different. However, she said she now recognizes the importance in sharing her experience and encourages others to do the same. 'Having those hard conversations can open the doors for so many other people,' Vemulapalli said. Looking ahead, Vemulapalli envisions CCC expanding its impact through the release of an anthology, which will feature stories from cancer patients and survivors, offering diverse perspectives on the disease. CCC plans to host and attend both speaker and fundraising events to continue building its community and reach. 'We're still working on writing [the anthology] and publishing it, but that's one of the biggest projects that's hopefully going to come out soon,' Vemulapalli said. Ultimately, through CCC, Vemulapalli works to redefine the way cancer is perceived. By pushing beyond the traditional narratives of survival, Vemulapalli hopes to open the door for more inclusive and compassionate conversations about the disease, its impact, and the people it touches. Vemulapalli and CCC move to inspire people of all ages. As a teenager, Vemulapalli works to show that anyone can accomplish their ambitions if they have the will to do it. While not everyone may be able to relate to CCC, Vemulapalli's mission and service is one that hopes to inspire people of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences. She works to demonstrate how one can overcome instead of being overcome in the face of grief and pain.
Associated Press
11-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Kaushik Vemulapalli Honored with 2024 Global Recognition Award for Changing Philanthropic Technology
Kaushik Vemulapalli won a 2024 Global Recognition Award for his leadership in cloud modernization at his organization. His efforts in modernizing critical applications improved efficiency and impact, setting new technological standards for organizations addressing global challenges. Photo Courtesy of Kaushik Vemulapalli NEW YORK, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kaushik Vemulapalli, a dynamic product owner, has received a 2024 Global Recognition Award for his exceptional leadership in advancing cloud modernization efforts at his organization. Managing critical applications that handle billions in transactions annually, Vemulapalli's work introduced cloud-based microservices and real-time analytics, raising the bar for innovation and scalability. Under Vemulapalli's guidance, legacy systems were reimagined into scalable, real-time platforms capable of quickly adapting to evolving needs and objectives. The modernization initiative addressed critical areas such as data integration, security protocols, and operational workflows, enabling rapid and efficient service delivery. Strategic Leadership in Cloud Architecture Vemulapalli led the migration of several mission-critical applications to a comprehensive AWS cloud platform, revolutionizing operational efficiency. By integrating AWS technologies such as Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS), Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2), and Simple Storage Service (S3), he implemented a robust microservices architecture that enhanced scalability, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards. Through agile methodologies, Vemulapalli accelerated project timelines while ensuring quality delivery. His data-driven approach to performance metrics provided actionable insights for refining cloud strategies. Iterative development practices and continuous feedback mechanisms earned him exceptional evaluations for vision execution and technical innovation. Technology-Driven Social Impact Vemulapalli's initiatives significantly enhanced support systems for donors and financial advisors. The optimized platform improved fund disbursement processes, bolstering organizations addressing critical issues in education, healthcare, disaster relief, and environmental conservation. During crises, the modernized infrastructure facilitated rapid responses, ensuring timely aid delivery to communities in need. Vemulapalli's approach incorporated strategic Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and cutting-edge data analytics tools, enabling donors to make more informed decisions and fostering stronger engagement. These innovations enhanced operational efficiency and established new standards for leveraging technology in the philanthropic sector. Alex Sterling from the Global Recognition Awards commented on Vemulapalli's achievements, stating, 'Kaushik Vemulapalli's leadership demonstrates how innovative technology can enhance the impact of charitable organizations and drive meaningful social change.' Vemulapalli's work has reshaped philanthropic technology, balancing technical expertise with practical outcomes to achieve greater efficiency. Reflecting on his efforts, he noted, 'Cloud modernization amplifies our donor support capabilities and maximizes charitable impact.' His contributions have inspired advancements across the nonprofit sector, showcasing how strategic technological innovation can address global challenges effectively and elevate the role of charitable organizations in achieving their missions. The Global Recognition Awards is an international organization that acknowledges outstanding companies and individuals who have significantly contributed to their industries. Contact Information: Spokesperson: Alex Sterling
