Shanthi Ramakrishna
Shanthi Ramakrishna is pursuing Political Science and Economics as a member of the JHU Class of 2023 and will be continuing her studies at the JHU School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) as a member of the SAIS Class of 2024. As the Founder and CEO of Taara Projects, Shanthi has managed a team of nine; worked towards economically empowering artisans at risk for poverty in India; effectively organized a public-facing marketing campaign that provided consumers with the awareness of the human and environmental cost of fashion; and established an environmentally-conscious and transparent supply chain. The success of the venture’s first launch in April 2021 demonstrated the viability of impact-driven business models and that the fashion industry at large can do better. Her internships at the Cato Institute and Atlas Network, as well as with health tech startup Saathealth, allowed her to contribute to their online databases, platform growth, partner networks, and access to financial resources and mentorship. These experiences have also deepened her interest and insights into developing solutions for pressing issues experienced the world over. Moving forward, Shanthi hopes to continue being involved with ventures focused on generating meaningful and sustainable social impact. In her free time, Shanthi loves to explore local coffee shops and play piano/have jam sessions with her family.