Empowering Indian Students Through AI: Anjali Laddha's Degree2Destiny

Anjali Laddha, a Northeastern University international business student, has launched Degree2Destiny, an AI-driven career readiness platform aimed at enhancing the employability of Indian students. Recognizing a significant gap in soft skills within the Indian education system, Laddha's initiative seeks to equip students with essential skills such as communication and networking, which are often overlooked in traditional academic settings. She was inspired to create this platform after experiencing the educational differences between India and the U.K. and the U.S., where she noted the importance of soft skills in professional success.

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Since its inception in 2023, Degree2Destiny has engaged over 3,100 students across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India, providing workshops that focus on AI literacy and practical skills. Laddha's approach includes online courses and in-person workshops that help students develop personal brands and prepare for future careers. The platform has seen students successfully create projects such as recipe books and apps, demonstrating the practical application of skills learned through the program. Additionally, Laddha is developing an app called College2Career, which assists college students in securing internships by providing tools for resume building, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles.

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Laddha's efforts have garnered recognition, culminating in her winning the first prize in the Global Impact category at the 2025 Women Who Empower Innovator Awards. This accolade not only highlights her entrepreneurial spirit but also underscores the potential impact of her work on the educational landscape in India. The cash prize from the awards, along with funding from Northeastern’s Startup Founder Co-op Program and the Presidential Global Scholarship grant, will further support the growth of Degree2Destiny.

This Northeastern student turned soft skills into an AI startup helping Indian students unlock their potential

Despite her success, Laddha acknowledges the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in India, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where societal expectations often discourage women from pursuing careers in technology. She aims to empower female students and entrepreneurs, believing that addressing these barriers is crucial for fostering a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

This Northeastern student turned soft skills into an AI startup helping Indian students unlock their potential

Laddha emphasizes the importance of AI literacy, stating, “Knowing AI is very important for anyone who wants to succeed. The job market is changing already.” She believes that every student should have the opportunity to unlock their potential, reflecting her commitment to educational equity.

This Northeastern student turned soft skills into an AI startup helping Indian students unlock their potential

While Laddha's initiative has received praise, some critics argue that the focus on soft skills may not adequately address the systemic issues within the Indian education system, such as the need for curriculum reform and improved access to technology. These concerns highlight the complexity of educational reform and the multifaceted challenges that initiatives like Degree2Destiny must navigate.

This Northeastern student turned soft skills into an AI startup helping Indian students unlock their potential

Looking ahead, Laddha plans to expand Degree2Destiny's reach and impact, continuing to develop resources that empower students across India. Her vision includes fostering a generation of skilled individuals who are not only prepared for the job market but also equipped to innovate and lead in their respective fields.

This Northeastern student turned soft skills into an AI startup helping Indian students unlock their potential