Young Change Makers: Why and How Aaliyah Ghotra of ‘Invisible to I’m Visible’ Is Helping To Change Our World
“Don’t be afraid to start small.” When I first began, I had this overwhelming sense that everything had to be big and grand to make an impact. But the reality is, change often starts with small, meaningful actions. One of my early workshops was tiny, just a handful of teens in a community center. But that one session sparked something bigger than I could have imagined. I learned that every small step, every single person you help, adds up. It’s not about the size of the project, but the impact you make in someone’s life.
As part of my series about young people who are making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Aaliyah Ghotra.
Aaliyah Ghotra is a passionate advocate for mental health and self-expression, focusing on empowering teens to overcome bullying through creative outlets. As a speaker, performer, and founder of an organization dedicated to supporting youth, she uses her own story of resilience to inspire others to find their voices. Aaliyah’s work has touched countless lives, encouraging young people to embrace vulnerability, practice empathy, and make a lasting social impact.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
Thank you so much for having me! Growing up, I experienced a lot of ups and downs. There were times when I felt truly invisible, especially when bullying took hold in my life. I was around 8 when I had a painful experience during a simple game of hide and seek, my friends left me locked in a closet for what felt like eternity, and that moment sparked a series of feelings that would shape my childhood. I was constantly struggling with low self-worth and feeling like I didn’t matter. But through it all, I found solace in the performing arts. Acting and dancing became my safe spaces, where I could express what words couldn’t, and slowly, I started to rebuild my confidence. That’s when I began my journey of discovering my true self and the power of being seen.
Is there a particular book or organization that made a significant impact on you growing up? Can you share a story or explain why it resonated with you so much?
Yes, there’s one book that really stood out to me, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. It was a game-changer. I remember reading it when I was struggling to find my footing after years of feeling invisible and worthless. The book talks about how we make agreements with ourselves and the world around us, and how those agreements shape our reality. One of the key agreements, “Don’t take anything personally,” really hit home for me. Growing up, I had a tendency to internalize the hurtful things people said, especially the bullies. But reading that book gave me a new perspective, it helped me realize that their actions were more about their own pain than anything to do with me. It was liberating and gave me the strength to stop letting their words define me. That lesson has stayed with me, and it’s something I now share with others, our worth isn’t based on other people’s opinions.
How do you define “Making A Difference”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
For me, “Making a Difference” is about creating a space where others can feel seen, heard, and understood. It’s not about grand gestures or changing the world overnight, it’s about the little moments where you can impact someone’s life, big or small. One example that really sticks with me is when I started performing on stage. It wasn’t just about entertaining or showcasing talent, it was about being vulnerable and allowing others to connect with the raw emotion behind the performance. When someone comes up to me afterward and shares how they felt seen or understood through my story, that’s making a difference. It’s about being authentic, sharing your truth, and offering a sense of hope and validation to those who may be struggling, just like I once did.
Ok super. Let’s now jump to the main part of our interview. You are currently leading an organization that aims to make a social impact. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change in our world today?
I’m so grateful to be part of something that’s really close to my heart. The organization I’m leading is focused on tackling the rising epidemic of bullying, especially among teens, and the impact it has on mental health. Our mission is to create safe spaces where young people can express themselves, heal, and feel truly seen, because so many teens are silently suffering, struggling with low self-worth, and feeling invisible.
We’re working on empowering teens to transform their pain into creative expression, whether that’s through art, dance, music, or even just finding a voice in a conversation. I’ve learned firsthand how transformative self-expression can be, it’s how I was able to rise above my own struggles. By teaching empathy, kindness, and the importance of vulnerability, we aim to shift the narrative around bullying. We want to create a world where everyone, especially our youth, feels confident in standing up for themselves, showing up authentically, and knowing their worth. It’s all about shifting the power dynamics and helping people feel seen, heard, and understood.
Can you tell us the backstory about what inspired you to originally feel passionate about this cause?
Absolutely. The passion for this cause comes from my own experiences with bullying, which started at a very young age. I remember a specific moment during a game of hide and seek when I was left locked in a closet while everyone else continued without me. It wasn’t just the physical isolation; it was the emotional pain of realizing I wasn’t valued, that I didn’t matter. That incident, though seemingly small, was the beginning of a pattern that lasted for years. I was subtly bullied by two of my “friends,” which made me feel invisible and unworthy.
But through all that pain, I found an outlet in the performing arts. Dance and theater became my way of reclaiming my voice and my worth. They gave me a space to express what words couldn’t and to be seen for who I truly was, not just what others wanted me to be.
As I grew older, I realized how many other teens were going through the same struggles, but they didn’t have the same tools I had. They didn’t have a stage to stand on or a dance floor to express themselves. This is what sparked my passion, to help others find their voice and turn their hurt into something beautiful. I wanted to ensure that no one felt invisible the way I once did, and I’m determined to create spaces where teens can feel empowered and confident.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. We don’t always get up and just do it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were actually going to step up and do it? What was that final trigger?
Yes, there was definitely a turning point. For so long, I let fear and self-doubt keep me stuck in the shadows, unsure of my own worth and whether I had the strength to speak out. But everything changed when I reached a breaking point. After years of feeling invisible and trapped by my own insecurities, I had a moment of clarity, sitting with my mom, talking about the bullying I had endured. I realized that I didn’t want to keep suffering in silence. I didn’t want to be someone who just took the pain and stayed quiet anymore.
That moment was my “Aha!” — I made the decision to take a stand, not just for myself, but for others who were too afraid to speak up. At just 12 years old, I set boundaries with those who had been hurting me, and for the first time, I truly felt free. It wasn’t about revenge or proving anything, it was about reclaiming my power and making a commitment to myself that I wouldn’t let fear hold me back. From that day forward, I knew that I had a responsibility to share my story, to use my voice, and to help others find theirs. That was the moment I realized that I wasn’t just going to survive, I was going to thrive.
Many young people don’t know the steps to take to start a new organization. But you did. What are some of the things or steps you took to get your project started?
Starting my organization wasn’t easy, but it was something I felt called to do. It all began with understanding that my story could be a catalyst for change, and I knew that I had to step up and create a space for others to feel seen and heard.
The first step was really about building a vision, what did I want to accomplish, and how could I make it impactful? For me, the mission was clear: to address bullying and the mental health struggles that teens face, and to offer creative outlets for self-expression. Once I had that vision, I started to surround myself with people who shared the same passion and drive. I reached out to mentors, educators, and even my family for advice and support.
Then came the practical steps: I began researching organizations doing similar work and learned from them. I also made sure to involve teens directly in the conversation, what did they need, what were they struggling with? Listening to their stories helped me understand how to build something that was truly meaningful.
The next step was the most important: taking action. I started small, with local events and workshops where teens could express themselves through dance, theater, or simply talking about their experiences. It wasn’t perfect at first, but it was a start. And from there, things began to grow.
Above all, I learned that starting an organization doesn’t require having it all figured out from the start. It’s about taking those first steps, being willing to make mistakes, and keeping the mission at the heart of everything you do. Trusting in yourself and your purpose is key. You don’t have to have all the answers, just the courage to begin.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
One of the most interesting and moving stories happened during one of our first workshops. We had a group of teens who had been struggling with feelings of isolation and low self-worth, similar to what I had experienced growing up. We gathered in a small community center, and the plan was simple: create a space where they could express themselves, whether through art, dance, or just sharing their stories.
During one of the sessions, a teen who had been very quiet and reserved the entire time stood up and said, “I’ve never felt like I belonged, but being here I feel like I have a voice.” Then, they shared a poem they had written in private, expressing the pain of feeling invisible and unheard. It was raw and powerful, and what struck me was how everyone in the room, teens who had felt the same way, responded. They started applauding and encouraging each other. That moment of connection, when they saw each other and recognized their shared experiences, was truly transformative.
It was a reminder of why I do this work, because sometimes, all someone needs is a space where they can be vulnerable, and then they realize how much power they have inside of them. That moment was the perfect example of how something as simple as giving someone the platform to speak their truth can change everything.
Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson or take away you learned from that?
Oh, absolutely! One of the funniest mistakes I made when I first started was during one of our early workshops. I was so eager to make everything perfect, but I completely forgot to double-check the schedule and ended up booking the space for the wrong time! So, when the teens and I showed up, we found a locked door and no one there to let us in. It was so awkward at the time, we were all standing outside, trying to figure out what to do.
In the end, we made the best of it by gathering in a nearby park, sitting in a circle, and just talking. It turned into one of the most memorable and meaningful sessions we had, but at the time, I was mortified! The lesson I learned from that was to always double-check the details, planning is key! But more importantly, I also learned that sometimes things don’t go as planned, and that’s okay. The experience taught me to be flexible, adapt in the moment, and trust that even when things don’t go perfectly, the essence of what we were doing, connecting and supporting each other, was what really mattered. Now, I always try to embrace the unexpected and find the silver lining, because sometimes the “mistakes” lead to the most powerful moments.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
Absolutely! I couldn’t have done this alone. My parents were my first and most important cheerleaders. My dad, in particular, has always been there with open-hearted listening, letting me share my fears, dreams, and struggles. And my mom, she’s not only been my best friend but also my coach, always reminding me that I am capable of more than I think. They’ve been my foundation, providing unconditional support and love, especially during the tough times.
But there were also mentors along the way who made a significant impact. One mentor in particular, a theater director I worked with early on, gave me the courage to step into my own power. I was extremely shy and self-conscious, but she saw something in me that I couldn’t see myself. She pushed me to take on roles that scared me, and even when I failed or doubted myself, she reminded me that every setback was just a lesson, not a defeat. Her belief in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself, was transformative.
One story that stands out is when I was preparing for a big performance in a school play. I was incredibly nervous, convinced I would mess up. But my mentor pulled me aside and said, “You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be real. The audience wants to see you, not a performance of someone else.” Those words stuck with me, and that’s when I realized that authenticity is what connects us, not perfection. She taught me that it’s okay to be vulnerable and that vulnerability can be a strength, not a weakness.
Their support gave me the confidence to not only keep going but to lead others in this journey. It’s a reminder that no one succeeds on their own, sometimes, all it takes is one person believing in you to spark a change.
Without saying specific names, can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
There was one young person who really stands out in my mind. They came to one of our workshops feeling very withdrawn, barely speaking and avoiding eye contact. It was clear they were carrying a lot of pain from the bullying they had endured at school, and I could sense that they didn’t feel like they had a place where they could truly be themselves.
During one of our creative expression sessions, I gently encouraged them to share whatever felt right. At first, there was hesitation, but eventually, they opened up. They shared how they felt invisible, constantly put down, and that the bullying made them doubt their worth. It was raw and vulnerable, and I could see how much it meant for them to finally speak those words out loud.
Over time, I noticed a shift in this teen. They started engaging more, whether through drawing, writing, or sharing their thoughts with the group. They began standing taller, making more eye contact, and even smiling more. The transformation was beautiful to witness. Not only did they find their voice, but they also began encouraging others in the group to share their stories.
The most powerful moment came when they said, “I never thought I could speak up, but now I know I have a voice. I’m not invisible anymore.” That’s when it truly hit me how impactful this work can be. It wasn’t just about helping this individual; they were now helping others find their voice too. It reminded me of the ripple effect that happens when one person feels seen and heard.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
Yes, there are a few key things that can make a huge difference in addressing the root causes of bullying and its impact on mental health.
- Promote Emotional Education and Mental Health Awareness: It’s crucial for schools, communities, and policymakers to prioritize emotional intelligence, empathy, and mental health education. These topics should be integrated into curriculums from a young age, helping children and teens understand their emotions, build resilience, and develop compassion for others. When emotional well-being becomes just as important as academic achievement, it sets the foundation for creating more understanding and supportive environments.
- Create Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Communities and organizations need to actively foster environments where young people feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment or retaliation. This means providing outlets for self-expression, such as arts programs, mental health support groups, and peer mentorship opportunities. By offering these spaces, we can empower youth to share their stories, feel seen, and build stronger connections with others.
- Support Anti-Bullying Legislation and Programs: Politicians and local leaders can play a significant role by pushing for stronger anti-bullying laws and policies that hold schools and communities accountable for addressing bullying. Additionally, they can invest in resources that provide educators and parents with the tools they need to support kids who are being bullied and teach empathy to those who may be engaging in bullying behaviors.
Ultimately, it takes a community-wide effort, and when we come together to provide education, safe spaces, and the right resources, we can begin to address the root of bullying and help build a more compassionate world for our youth.
Fantastic. Here is the main question of the interview. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? (Please share a story or example for each).
Looking back on my journey, here are the five things I wish someone had told me when I first started, along with why they’re so important:
- “Don’t be afraid to start small.” When I first began, I had this overwhelming sense that everything had to be big and grand to make an impact. But the reality is, change often starts with small, meaningful actions. One of my early workshops was tiny, just a handful of teens in a community center. But that one session sparked something bigger than I could have imagined. I learned that every small step, every single person you help, adds up. It’s not about the size of the project, but the impact you make in someone’s life.
- “You don’t have to have all the answers right away.” Early on, I felt like I had to have everything figured out, every step, every detail, and every solution to every problem. But the truth is, that’s not how it works. I remember the first time I had to plan a full event. I was terrified that I’d miss something, but I didn’t. And I learned as I went. It’s okay not to have all the answers; it’s about being willing to learn, grow, and adapt as you move forward. The key is being open to the process and trusting yourself.
- “Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision.” I didn’t realize how important it was to have a support system, especially when things got tough. At one point, I was feeling discouraged because things weren’t moving as fast as I’d hoped. That’s when I leaned on my family and mentors for support. Their belief in me gave me the strength to keep going. Whether it’s family, friends, or like-minded individuals who share your passion, having a team who believes in what you’re doing will keep you going when doubt creeps in.
- “Failure is not the end; it’s part of the journey.” I can remember a time when a workshop I put together didn’t go as planned. A lot of the participants didn’t engage as I had hoped, and I felt like I had failed. But instead of seeing it as a loss, I started to see it as a lesson. I took the feedback, adjusted, and came back stronger. Now, when something doesn’t go perfectly, I don’t view it as failure. I see it as an opportunity to grow and improve. It’s a vital lesson for anyone starting out, you don’t grow without setbacks, and those setbacks often lead to breakthroughs.
- “Your voice and your story are your power.” For a long time, I held back from sharing my story because I was scared of being judged or misunderstood. But once I embraced my own experience, my struggles with bullying, my journey of self-discovery, it became the most powerful tool I had. My story resonated with others, and I realized that vulnerability is strength. When I started to speak up and share, I not only found my own healing but also helped others find theirs. Your voice matters, and it’s through sharing our stories that we connect with others in meaningful ways.
If you could tell other young people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
I would tell them this: “You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment or be ‘perfect’ yourself to start making a difference.”
When I was younger, I didn’t think I had the power to make an impact, especially in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. But the truth is, every small action matters. Whether it’s speaking up for kindness, sharing your story, or simply supporting someone who’s struggling, these actions ripple out and create change. You don’t need to have all the answers or wait for a big platform, your voice, your experiences, and your unique perspective are exactly what the world needs. You have the power to inspire others, make people feel seen, and shape a better future, one step at a time. Just start, and trust that your impact will grow.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
What an interesting question! If I could have a private breakfast or lunch with anyone, it would be Oprah Winfrey. She’s someone who has profoundly influenced me with her wisdom, empathy, and ability to turn personal struggles into platforms for healing and empowerment.
I admire how she has used her voice to uplift others and create spaces for people to share their stories, much like what I try to do with my own work. Her ability to blend vulnerability with strength is something I deeply resonate with. I’d love to sit down with her and discuss how to better reach young people, especially teens who are struggling with issues like bullying and self-worth. She’s someone who truly understands the power of storytelling and transformation, and I believe there’s so much I could learn from her about the journey of turning personal pain into purpose. Plus, I think it would be such a meaningful conversation about kindness, healing, and how to keep pushing forward, even when the world feels heavy.
How can our readers follow you online?
You can follow me online through my social media platforms where I share insights, updates, and resources about overcoming bullying, mental health, and the power of self-expression. You can find me on LinkedIn, Instagram and Youtube.
Additionally, feel free to check out my website www.AaliyahGhotra.com, where I share blog posts, upcoming events, and other ways to get involved in this important work. And of course, if you’re interested in hearing more about my journey, you can also watch my TEDx talk “Powerful Lessons from a Bullied Teen” on YouTube! Just search for it by title or follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-ryQewOLrc.
I’d love to connect with you all and continue this conversation about how we can make the world a more compassionate place, one step at a time!
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
Young Change Makers: Why and How Aaliyah Ghotra of ‘Invisible to I’m Visible’ Is Helping To Change… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.