Ricky Sharma

Ricky Sharma is a prominent social entrepreneur and the Co-Founder of Adolescent Health Champions (AHC), an organization dedicated to improving health outcomes and gender equality for adolescents in India. Established in 2016, AHC, originally known as Girls Health Champions, focuses on peer education interventions in schools, empowering young people to become health educators within their communities. The organization addresses critical issues such as nutrition, mental health, gender-based violence, and sexual and reproductive health among adolescents aged 13 to 19 years.123

Background and Education

Ricky Sharma holds a Master of Public Policy (MPP) from the Harvard Kennedy School, which he completed in 2018. Before his involvement with AHC, he worked in the financial sector as a private equity investor at TA Associates and as an investment banker at Lazard. He also completed his undergraduate studies in business and political science at the University of Pennsylvania.24

Role at Adolescent Health Champions

As Co-Founder and Co-President of AHC, Ricky oversees operations and strategic direction. The organization has implemented innovative approaches to adapt its programs during challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continued support for adolescents facing increased health risks during this time.13 AHC's model includes training adolescents as peer educators, known as "Champions," who facilitate discussions on health topics and foster a supportive environment for their peers.25

Impact and Recognition

Under Ricky's leadership, AHC has received various awards and grants aimed at promoting youth-led health initiatives. The organization has significantly contributed to enhancing community engagement and addressing the unique challenges faced by adolescents, particularly girls, in India.236