Priya Kothari

I am a passionate and dedicated member of the youth entrepreneurship and social impact ecosystem, committed to creating positive change through entrepreneurship, leadership, and advocacy. As the youngest Executive Council (EC) member and Director of International Partnerships at CYDA, I lead global collaborations to drive impactful change. With over 13 years of experience in entrepreneurship development and a decade in social entrepreneurship, I have worked extensively to empower youth, women, and marginalized communities.
Currently, I serve as the CEO of YouthAid Worldwide and Board Director (formerly CEO) of YouthAid Foundation, an organization driving entrepreneurship and leadership programs in India and the USA. I am also a Global Advisor for How Women Lead, where I actively work towards advancing women’s leadership, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment. Additionally, I serve as a Special Advisor for YES Summit, focusing on poverty reduction, skill-building, and grassroots entrepreneurship initiatives.
I am an active member of DC Startup Week, and I also founded the South Asian Women Entrepreneurs Group to support and uplift female-led businesses and startups.
My Expertise & Passion
I specialize in social media, marketing, and strategic communications, leveraging my skills to amplify social impact initiatives. My passion lies in using entrepreneurship as a tool for empowerment, helping first-generation entrepreneurs and women-led startups thrive and scale.
As Director of International Partnerships at CYDA, I focus on building cross-border collaborations to create sustainable programs that support youth leadership, skill development, and gender-inclusive economic growth. Through these efforts, I connect global institutions, policymakers, and grassroots leaders to amplify social impact on a global scale.
My Impact & Initiatives
YES Summit Founder – Leading one of the largest grassroots entrepreneurship summits since 2016, reaching 12 states in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Micro-Entrepreneurship Development – Collaborated with Maharashtra State Skill Development, Employment & Entrepreneurship Government (MSSDS) to launch programs benefiting thousands of entrepreneurs.
Global Thought Leadership – Represented my work on global platforms, including the United Nations, World Bank, and international entrepreneurship forums.
Sustainability & Gender Equity Advocate – Conducted research on first-generation entrepreneurs and sustainability, presented at international conferences on climate change and economic resilience.
Women’s Leadership & Empowerment – As a Global Advisor for How Women Lead, I champion gender equity, leadership development, and inclusive finance for women globally.
International Partnerships & Advocacy – As Director of International Partnerships at CYDA, I drive global collaborations to strengthen youth-focused programs.
Social Impact & Tech Integration –, supporting tech-driven health solutions for underserved communities.
Recognition & Awards
Winner of the Women Connect Challenge Trophy by USAID for enhancing women’s participation in entrepreneurship through technology.
Featured Speaker & Panelist at global events, advocating for entrepreneurship, youth leadership, and women’s empowerment.
Recognized for my work in youth entrepreneurship, social impact, and sustainable economic development.
What Drives Me
I am not just an entrepreneur—I am a changemaker, a problem solver, and an advocate for those who need a voice. My mission is to empower individuals, transform communities, and create opportunities where they never existed before. I represent a nation of 1.5 billion people and lead two organizations that have touched the lives of 100,000+ individuals.
Every day, I wake up with one goal: to push boundaries, break barriers, and build a future where entrepreneurship drives lasting social change.