I am Aahan Prajapati, a Grade 11 student with a deep passion for computational biology, neuroscience and genetics. Being red-green colorblind has changed my perspective to view the world, made me more empathetic, and sparked my curiosity about the human mind and body. My goal is to develop innovative healthcare solutions that can positively impact people’s lives.
I enjoy solving Rubik’s cubes, playing the bamboo flute, and hiking and trekking in my leisure time, which keeps me happy and challenged me mentally and physically.
As someone with red-green color blindness, I have also been deeply involved in color vision deficiency awareness, particularly through my leadership in AIDING COLOURS. I am proud of my personal achievement in solving the 3×3 Rubik’s Cube with a best time of 7.6 seconds.
Every step I take, whether through scientific exploration, personal growth, or pursuing new passions, is driven by the desire to continuously learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the world around me.
In 2023, I was given the incredible opportunity to work as the Project Head for the Aiding Colours project under the Dr. Shivani Bhatt Charitable Foundation (SBCF) in my hometown, Anand. The foundation is known for its impactful social work, ranging from underprivileged children and women’s health to children’s education, and one of its key initiatives is conducting colour blindness screening camps in municipal schools.
Being red-green colourblind myself, I know first-hand the challenges that students with colour vision deficiency (CVD) face, both academically and socially. Motivated by my own experiences, I embarked on this journey to make a difference for children who are affected by CVD, so they can be diagnosed early and receive the support they need.
To date, our team has conducted screenings for over 8,000 students, identifying 117 cases of CVD. In my role as Founder and Project Head, I manage a dedicated team of optometrists and volunteers, coordinate with schools, procure essential diagnostic tools like the Ishihara chart, and provide career and psychological counselling for students, parents, and teachers.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project has been helping raise awareness. Through the creation of brochures and posters in both English and Gujarati, I’ve worked to simplify the information about CVD, ensuring that everyone, including those with limited English proficiency, understands the importance of early diagnosis.
We are also in a process of making colour blindness friendly education materials which will be distributed in schools.
I’m determined to continue this work and reach even more children who may need our support.
Table tennis has always a passion of my life. I represented Adani International School in the Under-17 category and competed against some of the best young players in the country. I got an opportunity to play in National Ranking Competition at Banglore in December 2024. It was an challenging experience.
I gave it my best, but unfortunately, I was unable to win this time. Still, playing at this level taught me a great deal. It showed me how much I still need to grow as a player.
Cubing is the game I pursued with patience and determination. Being red-green colour blind, I faced challenges when it comes to solving cubes, especially when it comes to differentiating between red and green coloured blocks of Rubik’s Cube.
My personal best for solving the 3×3 cube stands is 7.6 seconds. I can solve 2×2, 3×3, 5×5, 6×6, and 7×7.
Music has always been a significant part of my life, and it brings me a sense of joy and peace. Singing, especially Sufi music, is something that resonates deeply with me. The soulful melodies and profound lyrics of Sufi music have always been a source of comfort, and I enjoy expressing myself through this form of art. It’s not just about the music itself but the emotions it evokes and the connection it creates with my inner self.
Over the years, I’ve explored various musical instruments in an attempt to expand my musical horizons. I tried learning the harmonium, guitar, and tabla, but none of these instruments seemed to spark a lasting interest in me. Despite my efforts, I couldn’t quite connect with them the way I had hoped.
However, recently, I started learning the flute, and I’ve discovered a newfound passion. The flute not only excites me musically but also holds a deep cultural and spiritual significance. Shree Krishna, who is our God, played the flute, and this connection has made the instrument even more meaningful to me.
Music, for me, is not just a hobby – it’s a way to connect with myself, my culture, and the world around me.
Trekking through the Himalayas has been a life-changing adventure for me. From the spiritual serenity of Rishikesh to the hidden beauty of Tirthan Valley, and the challenge of conquering the Kedarkanta peak, each trek has deepened my love for the mountains.
The Kedarkanta trek, with its snow-covered trails and breathtaking summit views, was a true test of endurance. Now, my ultimate goal is to reach Everest Base Camp – standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak is a dream that fuels my passion for trekking.
Each trek has taught me valuable lessons about resilience and the beauty of nature. For anyone planning a trek, I say: embrace the journey, push your limits, and let the mountains inspire you.