Ronak Suchindra, a 17-year-old 4-H member from Chester Springs, is going full “STEM” ahead as a $5,000 scholarship recipient and 2025 National 4-H Council Youth in Action Award winner. Suchindra was selected to create Kids Connect, a platform that offers STEM — science, technology, engineering, and math — workshops to youth across the country. 

With more than 50 STEM learning activities, Suchindra has reached more than 3,000 students globally to help foster a new generation of STEM enthusiasts.

“It’s been so rewarding to see more young people get interested in STEM and connect it to their own lives through Kids Connect workshops,” he said. “It all started because of the opportunities 4-H gave me, both to learn about STEM and to grow as a leader.”

For more than nine years, Suchindra has thrived in 4-H, transforming from a shy 8-year-old into a leader and passionate advocate for STEM education, his Penn State Extension educators noted.

“I am so proud of Ronak and the young leader he has become,” said Toni Stuetz, 4-H extension educator in Chester County. “Watching him grow from an 8-year-old interested in a day camp to being the outstanding young leader that he has become has been a joy and a testament to the 4-H program.”

Suchindra said his spark came during a 4-H scratch workshop where he solved a coding problem and led his peers to the solution. This pivotal moment gave him confidence and a newfound love for STEM, propelling him to state and national successes in competitive robotics and earning prestigious awards such as the 4-H Diamond Clover, the highest achievement possible in the Pennsylvania 4-H program.

“He is a mentor to our robotics team and helps lead several day camps each year sharing his STEM knowledge and passion with other youth,” Stuetz said. “He is an inspiration to other youth in Chester County and a role model for many.”

Suchindra’s commitment to service and education shows in his efforts to organize charity events and other STEM workshops in his community. In college, he plans to study business and engineering, eventually using his experience and passion for STEM to launch a startup. 

“Whenever I think of Pennsylvania 4-H STEM projects, Ronak immediately comes to mind,” said Joshua Rice, Penn State Extension assistant director for 4-H youth development programs. “Since joining 4-H, he has sparked enthusiasm in other young people to engage with STEM activities, explore new concepts and seize opportunities. Ronak is not just a leader; he is someone who genuinely cares for and inspires those around him.”

Echoing this sentiment, Jill Bramble, president and CEO of the National 4-H Council, highlighted the broader impact of Suchindra’s contributions.

“STEM education is an invaluable asset for future generations,” she said. “To have bright minds like Ronak contributing and preparing the next wave of STEM leaders is inspiring and a true embodiment of our mission at 4-H.”

______