Board Members

Founder & CEO

Elise Chou

My name is Elise Chou, and I am the founder and president of The Smart $tart Initiative. I’m currently a junior at Foothill High School in Pleasanton, CA. As an aspiring business professional, I actively seek out opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills — from competing in DECA to completing a UCLA course on Investments, and contributing my marketing expertise to local nonprofits. As a member of The Smart $tart Initiative I look forward to empowering young people with the financial knowledge and confidence to make smart, informed decisions about their futures each and every day.

Chief Financial Officer

Niyanth Kanakasabapathy

Hi, I’m Niyanth, I am the CFO here at Smart Start. I specialize in fundraising and connecting with donors, with experience in political campaigns. Passionate about financial literacy & politics, I’m always looking to meet new people with similar passions! When I’m not working, you can usually find me watching or playing sports.

Chief Technology Officer

Akshay Tata

Hi, my name is Akshay, and I am the Chief Technology Officer at the Smart Start Initiative. I love to solve problems and coding. When I'm not working, you can find me on the tennis court or even on stage performing! I look forward to mentoring the next generation on financial literacy and its benefits

Director of Development

Deiksha Veerapaneni

Hi I’m Deiksha Veerapaneni, and I’m currently a junior at Foothill High School. I serve as the Director of Development at Smart $tart, where I help brainstorm ideas, build partnerships, and work toward expanding our club’s impact on campus and in the community. I’m passionate about making financial literacy more accessible and giving others the tools they need to make smart financial decisions. Through this role, I look forward to helping Smart $tart grow into a meaningful resource that truly empowers others. Outside of the club, I’m involved in DECA, volunteer with several organizations, and plan to pursue a career in business management one day.

Secretary

Tanvi Powar

Hi, my name is Tanvi Powar and i’m the secretary for The Smart Start Initiative! I am from Pleasanton, California and am currently a junior in High School (class of 2026). I am a part of Smart Start because I believe spreading awareness and raising funds for financial literacy is crucial in today’s world because of the lack of knowledge in youth. Apart from the Smart Start, some of my hobbies include reading, playing volleyball, and spending time with my friends and family!