Ashoka

Empowering the next generation of changemakers with AI

Since 1980, Ashoka has been standing shoulder-to-shoulder with people who decide to do something about the problems they see in the world. These are changemakers— individuals who are passionate about making life better for others. Whether it’s education, the environment, healthcare, or human rights, Ashoka’s global community of over 4,000 changemakers spans 90 countries and countless causes.

But as their network has grown, so has the number of people putting their hands up to be part of this movement—especially young people with powerful ideas and even greater visions. This meant Ashoka needed a better, smarter way to manage and support all these incoming changemaker programs applications without losing the heart and soul of their mission.

That’s where the partnership with Fellowmind began

When purpose meets partnership

Ashoka believes that everyone can—and should—have the chance to be a changemaker. But how do you make a selection process feel encouraging and fair when you’re receiving applications from young people all over the world, each with different levels of experience and access to resources?

Ashoka wanted something more than just a faster process. They wanted a way to guide and coach applicants—especially those who might not have had the same opportunities—to help them clearly share their vision and strengthen their ideas. They teamed up with Fellowmind to co-create a solution; the result was a user-friendly, AI-powered application tool that gives applicants real-time feedback while they’re writing—like having a mentor beside them, gently pointing the way.

AI that empowers, not overpowers 

The tool was designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind, ensuring that applicants from diverse backgrounds receive meaningful feedback to refine their applications designed to be supportive, not controlling. The AI doesn’t rewrite ideas or take over the voice of the writer. Instead, it offers clear, actionable suggestions to help applicants tell their story better—while staying true to their unique voice and vision. 

Inclusivity was at the heart of every decision made during development. The tool helps level the playing field, especially for those who might not have easy access to mentorship or formal training in how to write applications. 

And as a recipient of Fellowmind’s Digital Inclusion Fund, Ashoka’s work aligns perfectly with one of Fellowmind’s core sustainability commitments—bridging the digital divide and making technology a force for good. 
 
Digital Inclusion is one of Fellowmind’s five ESG focus areas. Through the Digital Inclusion Fund, Fellowmind has over the past couple of years allocated financial funding to local digital literacy initiatives but also shared our expertise with the receiving NGOs.

Helping big ideas take shape

The tool has already helped young changemakers sharpen their ideas and express themselves more confidently—without losing their personal touch. 

“After using the AI tool, I found that it was much more effective, allowing me to produce more streamlined answers in less time. It was unlike anything I’ve ever used before because it provided real-time feedback and guidance while I was writing my answers. It felt like having a mentor with me, guiding me through the process. Usually, with AI, there’s a fear of losing the human touch and the connection between me and the reviewer of the application, but this tool allowed me to maintain my authenticity in writing,” 
 —Sahithi Radha, Young Changemaker, India 

For Ashoka, this means more than just smoother operations. It means they can now focus more energy on what they do best: recognizing potential, nurturing talent, and celebrating young leaders with the courage to create change. 

Tech with heart

The collaboration between Ashoka and Fellowmind is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when technology is used with empathy, intention, and people at heart. It’s not just about streamlining a process—it’s about opening doors.

“At Ashoka, we believe every young person has the power to solve a challenge in their community, through teamwork and empathy, and effect positive change around them. Our collaboration with Fellowmind will enable more young people around the world to have access to support and resources and be celebrated for their innovative ideas and contribution to society,” 
 —Daniela Matielo, Co-founder of the Ashoka AI Lab and Director of Ashoka Changemakers.com 

Because at the end of the day, digital transformation isn’t just about the tech—it’s about the people it helps.