Arjun Saini, a 17-year-old student from Northville High School, has been recognized as one of the recipients of the prestigious Youth Volunteer of the Year Award at the 2024 Governor’s Service Awards Ceremony. The event, held on November 14 at the Detroit Opera House, celebrated 38 Michigan residents who have demonstrated exceptional service through volunteerism. Arjun was one of six individuals selected in the Youth Volunteer of the Year category.
The Governor’s Service Awards, presented annually since 1994, honor individuals, organizations, and businesses that contribute to improving the lives of Michigan residents and communities. The Youth Volunteer of the Year Award is given to individuals aged 25 and younger who have made a significant impact in their communities through volunteerism, creating solutions and fostering change.
Saini’s journey in service began in seventh grade when he was inspired by his mother, a physician who worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic. His passion for helping others was ignited by this experience, leading to his early involvement in community service. As a teenager, he quickly made his mark by winning first place in a global Minecraft competition sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration, where he recreated airports. Check out this FAA Airport Design Challenge video featuring Arjun Saini. Shortly after, he founded the Northville Novi Mask Initiative, which distributed over 15,000 KN95 masks to combat PPE shortages, partnering with multiple school districts to provide vital support during the pandemic.
Now, as a senior at Northville High School, Arjun has become an influential leader in his community. He serves as the youngest board member for several nonprofit organizations and has gained recognition for his leadership skills through his involvement in SPARK, a Northville High School club, and as Best Delegate at the YMCA Youth in Government program. Additionally, he created a five-year recap video for the Abhi Shah Foundation, furthering his commitment to service.
Arjun’s most notable achievement is the founding of his own nonprofit, MPower All. The organization empowers local communities through idea-sharing, leadership development, and growth opportunities for people of all ages. Since its inception, MPower All has mobilized over 2,500 volunteers—600 of them youth—across 30 projects benefiting diverse communities in Michigan. Some of the nonprofit’s most impactful initiatives include a youth-led Health Fair that served over 500 community members and an Indian clothing drive that collected 17,000 pounds of clothing for shelters, orphanages, and refugee camps.
In addition to his work with MPower All, Arjun has worked closely with his younger sister, Ria, to create opportunities for middle school students to grow into leadership roles. Together, they launched the MPower to Lead program, which provides youth with the chance to lead projects that match their personal interests. The program also offers digital empowerment for seniors, bridging the generation gap and promoting intergenerational connection.
Natalie Mootry, assistant principal at Hillside Middle School, attended the Governor’s Service Awards Ceremony in support of Arjun, praising his commitment to service. “Congratulations once again to Arjun on receiving the Governor's Youth Volunteer Award for his incredible work with MPower! His dedication to making a difference in the Northville and metro Detroit communities is truly inspiring. It’s remarkable to see how his efforts have not only impacted so many but also served as a source of inspiration for his sister, Ria, during her time at Hillside.”
Mootry continued, “Arjun's accomplishment is a testament to his character, vision, and the values you’ve instilled as a family. I wish him, Ria, and the entire Saini family continued success as he embarks on the next chapter of his journey. What a privilege it is to witness such an insightful and inspiring young man making a difference in the world.”
Arjun’s ongoing dedication to service exemplifies the power of youth in shaping a better future for all. His work with MPower All, along with his leadership and volunteer efforts, continues to inspire others to make a difference in their communities. Congratulations to Arjun Saini on his well-deserved recognition as Michigan’s Youth Volunteer of the Year!
For more information about MPower All and its initiatives, visit mpower-all.org.
The video below was presented at the 2024 Governor’s Service Awards Ceremony spotlighting Arjun Saini.
