Anika Verma joined the K2K Board in 2021 after volunteering with the organization for four years, first as a mentor in the swim program, then in our virtual programs. She became a part of K2K’s leadership team in 2020 as a program host, where she ran a variety of virtual programs. She owns an apparel company, Dare2Dye, and launched an exclusive OPTIMISM line that featured rainbow patches, bright colors, and smiley-faced embroidery that was dedicated to bringing attention to mental health support for teenagers and donated a percentage of profits from this line to K2K. Through singalongs, yoga sessions, swim lessons, golf lessons, and arts and crafts, Anika has formed an unbreakable bonds with both mentors and participants in our programs.
Anika is a senior at Newark Academy, and a student in the International Baccalaureate Diploma program. She serves as President of Stock Market Club, Kiva-Microfinance Club, and Indian Club as well as leadership roles of Minuteman society, a school-run community service club with a service hours requirement, and Food Club. She is also a Student Ambassador who promotes Newark Academy by acting as a liaison between the NA community and prospective students and families. Anika is also a member of NA’s varsity swim team and is captain of the NA varsity Girls Golf team. Anika additionally works as a golf counselor and pro shop manager at Anchor Golf Center.