Hila Tor     

Founder + Director/Advisor

Hila is a first-year at Yale University. In addition to her leadership in Planet Youth Project throughout high school, Hila was president of Eastlake Choir, secretary of the Jewish Student Union, and co-vice-president of the Astronomy Club. 

She has teaching experience as an SAT, math, and French tutor for various grade levels, as well as a teaching assistant for kindergarten-2nd grade reading and writing at the Jewish Day School in Bellevue.  Hila is also involved in astrophysics research, theatre, competitive singing, and equity work. Recently, Hila was selected as one of the 2024 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam award recipients for her work on PYP.

Hila decided to create Planet Youth Project 4 years ago, when she realized that children lack the apathy adults have to the urgency of the climate crisis. She believes that youth engagement has the power to inspire the community as a whole. Through PYP, Hila hopes to give kids an opportunity to develop sustainable habits and valuable leadership skills while also learning the joys of science! 

Ilinca Hamza

Co-President

Ilinca Hamza is a senior at Eastlake High School in Sammamish, Washington. She's thrilled to join the PYP officer team after her involvement as a volunteer!

Ilinca is passionate about marine science and climate change. In addition to her leadership in PYP, she advocates for marine conservation as a Youth Ocean Advocate at the Seattle Aquarium and serves as the president of the non-profit educational organization Girls Rock in Science and Math. She is also the co-president of her school's BioClub, vice president of the Astronomy Club, and president of Marine Science Club. She hopes to someday get a PhD in marine science. 

Dhaya Sarathy

Co-President

Dhaya is a senior at Eastlake High School in Sammamish, Washington. In addition to her enthusiasm for Planet Youth Project, Dhaya spends her time outside of school participating in Indian classical music and dance, playing as part of the Eastlake Band, skiing, and baking. She is currently doing research in developmental biology and hopes to someday further her interests in biology and social justice in the medical field.

Dhaya became involved in Planet Youth Project because she recognizes the vital importance of immediate action to preserve Earth due to the widespread consequences of climate change. She is passionate about environmental and social justice and believes that creating change means educating and helping the next generation to understand the importance of conserving this planet. 

Nilla Mugundan

Vice President + Secretary

Nilla Mugundan is a senior at Eastlake High School in Sammamish, Washington, with a passion for climate action and education. Outside of PYP she enjoys taking action in her community through various community organizations. She is passionate about seeing students take a role in climate action!

Nilla is excited to join the PYP officer team and contribute to preserving the Earth, combating climate change, and educating our youth. She recognizes that youth education is imperative to the future of our planet.

Devi Anand

Treasurer 

Devi is a junior at Eastlake High School in Sammamish, Washington. Along with her interests in science and medicine, she is an avid Thespian and has been a part of Eastlake's theatre troupe since freshman year. When she's not busy memorizing lines though, she enjoys reading mystery books and writing short stories–one of her many pastimes.

Devi grew passionate about environmental science through her AP Environmental Science class in her sophomore year. From deforestation to eutrophication, she learnt so much about our planet and ecosystems that she would not have otherwise known. As a member of the PYP Officer Team, Devi looks forward to using her experience in helping educate the next generation. She believes that involving today's youth in the fight against climate change is the first and vital step in sparking positive change in our world.

Haowen Yu

Public Relations

Haowen is a junior at Skyline High School in Sammamish, Washington. In her free time, she loves to read, play the cello, and code.

She became involved in PYP due to the fact that climate change has a growing impact on the Earth every day; by getting involved in educating the youth, she contributes to stopping this disaster.

Anika Prakash

Intern 

Anika Prakash is a freshman at Eastlake High School in Sammamish, Washington. She is ecstatic to join PYP's officer team and support their mission to teach climate change. She has a passion for education and believes that environmental awareness is essential for paving the way to a greener future. 

In addition to being a PYP officer, Anika also loves to go plogging (picking up litter while jogging!) around her neighborhood. She serves as a vice president for the Eastside Gavel Club and helps mentor kids in public speaking, and she volunteers with Inscight Education by teaching students of all ages about STEM. She is excited to use her experience to help empower other youth to fight for our planet's health!