Boston, Massachusetts, USA: Six Indian-origin women have been named among the 34 recipients of Northeastern University’s 2026 Women Who Empower Innovator Awards, recognizing their contributions to AI, technology, entrepreneurship, sustainability and social impact. The winners are Anwita Chaudhry, Simran Mohinani, Aashka Dave, Soumya Raguraman, Aarya Dhru and Tanya Singh.
Anwita Chaudhry secured first place in the AI and Technology category for her work on ExpressAI, an AI-powered communication platform designed to help nonverbal individuals communicate more authentically. Simran Mohinani topped the Entrepreneurial Leadership category with Mohlia, a luxury preserved-rose brand with an international presence.
In the Future of Work category, Aashka Dave placed second for Atrium, a platform connecting startups with skilled professionals, while Aarya Dhru secured third place for the I3 Competition, which helps students provide digital solutions to small businesses.
In Social Impact and Sustainability, Soumya Raguraman won first place for LabMatch, which connects students with research opportunities based on merit and fit. Tanya Singh placed third with Athenova Group, an AI-driven marketplace connecting college students to buy and sell products locally.
The 2026 awards attracted a record 165 applicants from Northeastern’s network. Now in its sixth year, the Women Who Empower program has supported Northeastern founders with more than $2.3 million since 2021, while continuing to provide resources and mentorship to emerging innovators and entrepreneurs.
