Kumon Student is Committed to Spreading Kindness
Rishika, 13-years-old, Math Level M
There are two types of people in the world. Those that make things happen and those who watch things happen. Rishika is a ‘do-er.’ When she was just nine years old, she founded the nonprofit organization Little Helpers. Her mission was to inspire young children to help those who are less fortunate.
“Something inside me kept telling me to share my blessings with others,” said Rishika. “Little Helpers was born with the motto of helping others and inspiring others to help. I wanted to make a difference not just by myself but as a group.”
Since its creation, Little Helpers has made a difference in thousands of lives in the greater Cincinnati area and beyond. Some of the Little Helpers’ service projects include donating over 2,800 new toys to the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and packing food for orphans around the world.
Rishika’s philanthropic spirit and passion for her organization has been an inspiration to her fellow classmates to also get involved.
Because of her desire to help others, she was recognized as a “Distinguished Finalist” at the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.
“My lifetime goal is to spread kindness and keep those around me happy and smiling,” said Rishika. “Our lives are not just about satisfying ourselves and getting what we need. Our lives are about inspiring and changing others during our journey.”
When Rishika is not volunteering, she enjoys putting her math skills to the test with her fellow Kumon Students on a Lego Robotics Team – the Robo Rangers. The team has competed in various FIRST Lego League Robotics Challenges using STEM applications to develop solutions to real-world problems.
Rishika was one of 56 students selected for Kumon’s 3rd Annual Student Conference in Chicago, Illinois. The recognition proves to be a source of motivation for Rishika, as she continues her Kumon journey.
“It is always motivating for me when my work gets recognized, and attending the Student Conference was a huge encouragement,” said Rishika. “Now, I’m even more motivated to complete the Kumon Math Program.”
Rishika shares highlights from the Student Conference and her plans to continue making a difference in the future.
How do you continue to stay motivated in Kumon?
As I reach higher levels, the worksheets become more challenging. I always look back at how far I’ve come, and that motivates me to keep going. I’m motivated to work harder, and the harder I work, the more I achieve. I always believe in myself and say, “I CAN do it!”
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I would like to become a doctor in outer space and help astronauts out. I will be the first pediatrician on Mars!
What’s your favorite book and why?
My favorite book is “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly. This is such a great book and talks about women being a part of a critical space mission. Not many females are a part of the STEM field, but this book proves that anything is possible.
Who’s your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration is my mom. She has always been my backbone. Any time I need anything, I can always count on her. I look up to my mom and want to be just like her in the future. I dedicate my achievements to her and consider myself lucky to have her in my life.
What was your experience like at the 2019 Kumon Student Conference, and what was your favorite part?
The Student Conference was a memorable experience! I learned so many things while having loads of fun. There were so many great parts of the conference, including meeting Mr. Mino Tanabe, President of Kumon North America.