The Role Of Mentorship In Competitions

Why Having A Mentor Can Make All The Difference?

Competitions have long been a platform for individuals to showcase their skills, talents, and innovations. Whether it’s in the realms of business, sports, or academia, participating in a competition can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. For young students, these competitions can be particularly daunting as they strive to prove themselves and achieve their goals. This is where mentorship plays a crucial role. Here, we will explore the significance of mentorship in the Kreativity League and why having a mentor can make all the difference.

Guidance and Expertise

Business competitions often require participants to navigate uncharted territory, whether it’s developing a business plan, perfecting a pitch, or honing a specific skill. A mentor brings invaluable guidance and expertise to the table. They can provide insights, share their experiences, and help you avoid common pitfalls. With their guidance, you can approach the competition with a well-informed strategy.
Similarly, in RoboQuest how to make a light but sturdy model with the right arms to crack the problem statement is important. How to program your robot to avoid any last-minute software glitch. The combination of right hardware with right software along with solving the hurdles right can be a skill that can be acquired during mentoring.

Building Confidence

Young participants may face self-doubt and anxiety when entering a competition. A mentor acts as a source of encouragement and support, helping you build the confidence needed to perform at your best. Their belief in your abilities can be a powerful motivator, pushing you to overcome challenges and excel in the competition.
That too the mentors coming from a huge practical experience from industry. The overall combined experience of more than 500 years, what makes the Kreativity League an unique platform.

KL Community and it’s Feedback

More importantly you have peer learning, becoming the part of a KL community that has students like you from all over India. You have an opportunity to create a lifetime bond by solving others’ problems. Remember, if you help others then the world will help you.
Constructive feedback is essential for growth. Mentors & Community provide honest and constructive criticism to help you improve. They can review your work, evaluate your performance, and offer suggestions for enhancement. This feedback loop is invaluable for refining your skills and strategies as you progress through the competition.

Accountability

Having a mentor can hold you accountable for your goals and commitments. Knowing that someone is invested in your success can motivate you to stay on track and put in the necessary effort to excel in the competition. It’s a partnership that keeps you responsible and focused.

Know about your Mentors & Judges

ROBOQUEST

Akhilesh Agnihotri

Akhilesh Agnihotri is a distinguished IoT & AI expert, BCI researcher, and STEM innovation leader, currently spearheading transformative solutions at Borosil Scientific Ltd. With a career spanning academia, industry, and government, he has designed impactful curricula, research hubs, and Centres of Excellence, benefiting students, educators, professionals, and corporates worldwide.

He has mentored teams to success at national and international robotics and innovation competitions, and is globally certified and recognised as a visionary mentor and thought leader in emerging technologies.

Balakrishnan Janardhanan

Balakrishnan Janardhanan is the CEO of Medall Diagnostics Ltd, bringing over three decades of diverse leadership experience. A Mechanical Engineer with an MBA in Marketing, he began his career as a Short Service Commissioned Officer in the Indian Air Force, serving in key northern and border postings. He has held senior roles across telecom, logistics, and healthcare sectors, including Vice President – Sales at Airtel and Chief Business Officer at Metropolis Healthcare. Known for his strategic vision and people-first approach, he is passionate about driving innovation, business growth, and mentoring future leaders.

Devansh Raghav

Devansh Raghav is an innovative corporate trainer specializing in Science and EdTech, passionate about creating engaging and impactful learning experiences. With expertise in effective teaching methodologies and simplifying complex subject matter, he has successfully mentored students across diverse domains. He has organized a 15-day Certificate Course on Digital Marketing and Advanced Excel and served as Software Project In-Charge for BBA at Ideal Institute of Management & Technology. Known for his commitment to skill development and practical learning, he continues to inspire students to embrace technology, creativity, and problem-solving to prepare for future career challenges.

Diwakar Kumar

Diwakar Kumar is an educator and content creator with 4+ years of experience in STEM education and web development. He specializes in AI, Robotics, Web Development, and Arduino-based projects, designing hands-on programs that help students connect theory with real-world applications. Passionate about project-based learning, he enables students to explore coding, 3D design, IoT, and AI while nurturing creativity and problem-solving skills. He also develops clear, structured educational content for Grades 4–12, simplifying complex concepts into engaging lessons. His mission is to empower students with 21st-century skills, inspiring curiosity and preparing them for the challenges of the future.

Vikrant Chauhan

Vikrant Chauhan is a Senior Network Engineer at Bharti Airtel and is currently pursuing an MBA from Manipal University. He holds a B.Tech from Uttarakhand Technical University and a Bachelor of Education in Physics and Mathematics from HNB Garhwal University. With early career experience in STEM and Robotics, he has been actively involved in mentoring and delivering guest lectures across schools, colleges, and universities. Passionate about education innovation, he aims to transform the sector by integrating emerging technologies like AI, robotics, machine learning, and coding to prepare students for the future.

Thoupuri Yogesh

Thoupuri Yogesh is a passionate Firmware Developer and Embedded Software Engineer with expertise in embedded C programming, microcontroller-based system design, and communication protocols like UART, SPI, I2C, and CAN. He has developed custom bootloaders with OTA update capability for STM32, designed peripheral drivers, and implemented multitasking environments using FreeRTOS. In the automotive domain, he contributed to the development of a 30 kW EV charger, optimizing real-time control loops for stable performance. Exploring AI at the edge, he integrated AI inference models for real-time human and object detection. He is committed to mentoring students in electronics, coding, and robotics, inspiring future innovators.

Rajat

Rajat is an accomplished Robotics Engineer and Trainer with over five years of experience in the education sector. Starting as an Innovation Engineer, he has designed and implemented robotics curricula that engage students across age groups, using a hands-on approach to simplify complex concepts. Rajat has been instrumental in organizing prestigious competitions such as the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) and Technocian, giving students a global platform to showcase their skills. Recognized with multiple awards and accolades, he continues to inspire and mentor students, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in the rapidly advancing world of robotics and technology.

Priyanshu Jain

Priyanshu Jain is a dynamic technology leader and Manager of Product Development at Neuroequilibrium, where he drives the creation of advanced medical devices. He is also the Founder of Botwing Labs, focusing on pioneering innovations in robotics, mechatronics, IoT, and embedded systems. With expertise in the Robot Operating System (ROS) and product development, Priyanshu bridges strategic vision with technical excellence. Passionate about STEM education, he actively mentors young innovators, inspiring them to explore technology as a tool for solving real-world problems and shaping the future of innovation.

Dr. Sunil Magan More

Dr. Sunil Magan More is an Assistant Professor in Electrical Engineering at Guru Gobind Singh College of Engineering & Research Centre, Nashik, with over 16 years of teaching experience. He holds a Ph.D. in Electric Vehicles and has guided projects on Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Tri-Hybrid Electricity Generation. Dr. More has published 30+ research papers in reputed journals, including IEEE and Scopus, and holds a patent for an innovative Battery Box design. With prior industry experience at Siemens, Samsonite, and ABB, he is passionate about electric vehicles, battery management systems, and renewable energy, inspiring students through innovation and research.

Anubhav Shriwastava

Anubhav Shriwastava is the Chief Operating Officer of SNB Innovations, overseeing its product divisions Swaroop.ai, Dataguruji, and Qvoo. With deep expertise in embedded systems, AI, and full-stack product engineering, he excels at scaling teams, streamlining delivery, and turning AI research into enterprise-grade products. He has architected advanced AI features like digital avatars, voice cloning, and multi-language lip-sync, while championing security-first practices and efficient product delivery. Passionate about mentorship and building resilient systems, Anubhav plays a pivotal role in fostering cross-functional synergy and driving innovation, positioning SNB Innovations as a leader in AI-powered SaaS and technology solutions.

Dr. T. R. Shivaram

Dr. T. R. Shivaram, Ph.D., PMP is a seasoned technology leader with a rich background in academia, industry, and defense. A Computer Engineering graduate with a Master’s in Electronics and Control and a Ph.D. in Computer Science, he served as a Short Service Commissioned Officer in the Indian Air Force, specializing in radars, communications, and missile systems. With leadership roles in Cairn Energy, CSC, and Tata Consultancy Services, he has extensive experience in IT, project management, and risk management. A senior IEEE member and PMP-certified professional, Dr. Shivaram is passionate about mentoring and advancing research through seminars, workshops, and technical committees.

Nilesh Tak

Nilesh Tak is a Senior Program Manager and Mobile App Developer with over six years of experience in app development and IoT education. At Moonpreneur, he mentors young learners in hands-on IoT, mobile app development, and end-to-end digital solutions, guiding them from foundational skills to real-world products. Nilesh has contributed to over 12 professional apps live on the Play Store and App Store, including the Hero VIDA Electric Bike app, Farwide, and ULLU OTT Platform. Passionate about innovation and critical thinking, he inspires students to transform ideas into impactful projects and excel in technology-driven competitions.

Vaibhav Mishra

Vaibhav Mishra is an IoT Developer and technology mentor with a Diploma in Electronics Engineering and a B.Tech in Information Technology. He has developed innovative solutions using ESP32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and Jetson Nano during his tenure at Softmation Innovation. Vaibhav has also collaborated with the SHARD Centre for Innovation, contributing to impactful projects and mentoring students on emerging technologies. As a Guest Lecturer, he has led seminars and workshops at Government Polytechnic, Gonda, and various schools, introducing students to IoT, AI, and smart systems, and inspiring them to explore experiential learning and innovation-driven careers.

Prawal Pratap Singh

Prawal Pratap Singh is the Founder of MD Innovator Pvt. Ltd., a leading tech education company in Uttarakhand, serving over 100 institutes and transforming thousands of young learners. A B.Tech graduate from Uttarakhand Technical University, he has over eight years of experience in integrating technology with education. Passionate about execution and innovation, Prawal focuses on building 21st-century skills in students, empowering them to become future entrepreneurs, visionaries, and developers. His work reflects a commitment to revolutionizing education and inspiring the next generation to think creatively, solve real-world problems, and prepare for a technology-driven future.

STEMPRENEUR

Dr. Rabiaah Bhatia

Dr. Rabiaah Bhatia is the Founder & Director of eD Web Studio Channel and MOC, NITI Aayog. A renowned public speaker, social media influencer, and leadership mentor, she is dedicated to inspiring change through education and empowerment. Dr. Rabiaah specializes in corporate training, life skills, soft skills, interview techniques, and career counseling, and is a British Council–certified Spoken English Trainer. With extensive experience as a communications professional and HR mentor, she has guided schools and MNCs, championing personal growth, value education, and environmental awareness. Her mission is to inspire individuals to lead purposeful lives and build a happier, peaceful society.

Anubhav Shriwastava

Anubhav Shriwastava is the Chief Operating Officer of SNB Innovations, overseeing its product divisions Swaroop.ai, Dataguruji, and Qvoo. With deep expertise in embedded systems, AI, and full-stack product engineering, he excels at scaling teams, streamlining delivery, and turning AI research into enterprise-grade products. He has architected advanced AI features like digital avatars, voice cloning, and multi-language lip-sync, while championing security-first practices and efficient product delivery. Passionate about mentorship and building resilient systems, Anubhav plays a pivotal role in fostering cross-functional synergy and driving innovation, positioning SNB Innovations as a leader in AI-powered SaaS and technology solutions.

Shadab Qureshi

Shadab Qureshi is the Founder and President of Kalam Science Foundation-India and a Mentor of Change for the Atal Innovation Mission (NITI Aayog), actively inspiring young minds toward innovation. A B.Tech graduate from SIAE&IT, Bangalore, he has diverse professional experience, including leadership roles in environmental management firms and as Managing Director at Sar Sai Management Pvt. Ltd. Shadab has also worked as a science educator and contributed to national conferences and aerospace research initiatives. Known for his leadership, motivational skills, and passion for education, he is committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and skill development among students nationwide.

Suresh Periasami

Suresh Periasami is a seasoned business leader with over 35 years of experience in business management, client engagement, HR, vendor management, and operations across IT services and engineering sectors. A founder member of Jeevan Technologies (2000) and Thinktrade Inc. (2005), he has extensive expertise in planning, corporate strategy, and driving operational efficiency. A former Indian Air Force officer with 13 years of service specializing in transport aircraft, helicopters, and communications, Suresh has also contributed to major events like AERO India Show 2000. Passionate about mentoring, sustainability, and social initiatives, he actively promotes soft skills, green initiatives, and corporate farming.

Sunil Kumar

Sunil Kumar is a Robotics Educator and Innovator with a B.Voc in Robotics & Automation from Shri Vishwakarma Skill University. He was the National Runner-Up in Mobile Robotics at the India Skills Competition 2021–22 and currently serves as ATL Incharge and Design Thinking Teacher at Brahm Dutt Blue Bells Public School, Gurugram. Sunil has mentored students to win ATL of the Month awards, Global Sustainability Awards, Inspire Manak Awards, and top positions at national events like Robo Race (IIT Delhi). With expertise in Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and AI-driven robotics, he is passionate about inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Vishal Sahu

Vishal Sahu is the Founder and CEO of DrapCode, a leading no-code platform that empowers users to build scalable web applications without writing code. With two successful entrepreneurial exits in the past, Vishal Sahu brings deep expertise in B2B SaaS, Fintech, and Healthtech, combining product innovation with business strategy. Passionate about democratizing technology, Vishal Sahu has been instrumental in helping startups and enterprises accelerate their digital transformation journeys. As a mentor and thought leader, Vishal Sahu is committed to inspiring young innovators to leverage technology creatively and build impactful solutions for real-world challenges.

Dr. Deepika Singh

Dr. Deepika Singh is a MedTech entrepreneur, researcher, and innovator with a Ph.D. from IIIT Allahabad focused on early breast cancer detection through thermal image analysis. She is the Founder of DGRakshak Pvt. Ltd., where she leads the development of Brexwel, a portable, non-invasive device for routine breast health monitoring. Her work, widely published in SCI and IEEE-indexed journals, bridges AI-driven thermal imaging with real-world healthcare solutions. Backed by Startup India Seed Fund and incubated at IIT Kanpur, Dr. Singh is committed to democratizing cancer screening and reducing late-stage diagnoses through accessible, affordable, and scalable innovations.

Ashna Mishra

Ashna Mishra is a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience across IT, Strategy, Marketing, and Sales, blending technical expertise with business acumen. A B.Tech in Electrical Engineering and MBA from IIM Lucknow, she began her career with IBM, specializing in Oracle Database solutions. Passionate about innovation, Ashna has co-founded startups and mentored ventures across technology, education, healthcare, agro, and F&B sectors. Her experience includes consulting for Sookshm, Lakshmi Machine Works, and Elzo, as well as political strategy (MP Ninong Ering, 2019) and World Bank development projects. She now leads Renascence, driving scalable, impact-oriented ecosystem solutions.

Amit Singh

Amit Singh is the Founder of Logicboots Pvt. Ltd., a tech start-up in AI, Robotics, Drones, and IoT, incubated by TIDES IIT Roorkee, STPI (MeitY), and Medtech SGPGI Lucknow. He developed India’s first AI-powered robotic vacuum cleaner and conducted the country’s first drone-based bridge inspection for Pune Metro. With multiple patents and research papers, Amit is recognized for pioneering innovations in healthcare and infrastructure. His flagship products include CoerAI, a wireless stethoscope with early heart and lung disease prediction, and AtharvAI, a surgical co-pilot. He is a frequent speaker at medical conferences on AI and digital health.

Dinesh Sain

Dinesh Sain, is a visionary Aerospace Engineer from IIT Bombay (2014 Batch), co-founded Drona Aviation the same year, driven by his deep passion for drones and aeromodelling. As a student, he actively mentored others in drone technology and fostered hands-on learning. Believing strongly in “learning by doing”, he introduced Pluto, India’s first programmable nano drone, to make robotics, programming, and drone tech accessible to students. His efforts have helped promote STEM education nationwide, with over 35,000+ drones sold since inception, empowering thousands of learners through practical, drone-based experiences.

Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Dr. Ajeet Kumar received his BTech degree in Mechanical Engg from IIT Kharagpur in 2006. He then went on to do his PhD from Cornell University, USA where he graduated in 2010. He then had a two-year Postdoctoral stint at the University of Minnesota. Since then, he has been in the Dept. of
Applied Mechanics at IIT Delhi where he now serves as Professor.

STEMCULT

Hasan Shahrukh

Hasan Shahrukh is a creative technologist, artist, and storyteller from Kota, Rajasthan, now based in Goa. His work blends folklore, AI, generative visuals, and interactivity to bridge tradition and technology. Starting his career in cybersecurity with published research on digital threats, he later transitioned to new media art and generative design. Through Curiouswala Studio, Hasan creates inclusive and participatory experiences that push the boundaries of creative technology. His interactive artworks, AI-powered narratives, and immersive installations have been showcased across India and internationally. When not experimenting with art and code, he’s usually chasing Goa’s sunsets—or battling its unpredictable WiFi.