Our Team
COMPASSION. ADVOCACY. CHANGE.
Illness Not Weakness is a youth-led mental health nonprofit built around one belief: struggling with mental health does not make someone weak. Our team works across communities to reduce stigma, expand access to mental health education, and create spaces where young people feel heard and supported. Through 30+ chapters across 15+ countries, we bring together students, advocates, and community leaders committed to making conversations about mental health more open, informed, and compassionate.

President
Anirudh Harish
Anirudh Harish is the President of Illness Not Weakness, where he oversees the organization’s growth, chapter development, fundraising initiatives, and mental health advocacy efforts. He works closely with team members and chapter leaders to expand the nonprofit’s reach and create meaningful programs for young people. Anirudh is especially passionate about reducing stigma surrounding mental health and making support and education more accessible across diverse communities.

Vice President
Varun Puttagunta
Varun Puttagunta is the Vice President of Illness Not Weakness, where they support organizational strategy, chapter coordination, and the development of mental health initiatives. They work closely with the President and leadership team to strengthen communication, manage ongoing projects, and help expand the nonprofit’s impact. Varun Puttagunta is passionate about creating supportive communities and helping young people feel more comfortable speaking openly about mental health

Technical Director
Siddharth Kakumanu
Siddharth Kakumanu is the Technical Director at Illness Not Weakness, where he oversees the organization’s website, digital systems, and technical infrastructure. He works with the leadership team to improve online resources, support chapter communication, and ensure the organization’s digital platforms remain accessible and effective. Siddharth is passionate about using technology to strengthen mental health advocacy and help the organization reach and support more young people.

Financial & Grants Coordinator
Arush Prabu
​Arush Prabu is the Financial and Grants Coordinator at Illness Not Weakness, where he manages budgeting, tracks organizational expenses, and supports grant research and funding applications. He works with the leadership team to help secure resources for chapter initiatives, mental health programs, and community outreach efforts. Arush is passionate about using financial planning and grant opportunities to strengthen the organization’s long-term impact and expand access to mental health resources.

Social Media Coordinator
Nikhil prasad
Nikhil Prasad is the Social Media Officer at Illness Not Weakness, where they manage the organization’s digital presence and create content that promotes mental health awareness, education, and advocacy. They help communicate the nonprofit’s mission, highlight chapter initiatives, and engage with young people across social platforms. Nikhil Prasad is passionate about using creative communication to reduce stigma and make mental health conversations more accessible and relatable.

Outreach Coordinator
ARJUN mATUKUMALLI
​Arjun Matukumalli is the Outreach & Partnerships Coordinator at Illness Not Weakness, where he leads outreach initiatives, builds partnerships, and coordinates communication across chapters and fundraising efforts. He is passionate about expanding access to healthcare resources for underserved communities and supporting mental health advocacy. Outside of his work, Arjun enjoys sculpting and painting as creative outlets.