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Nikhil Taneja
Co-Founder and Chief, Yuvaa, Building Yuvaa Originals Studio
Professional Background
Nikhil Taneja is an accomplished Mumbai-based entrepreneur, writer, producer, storyteller, teacher, public speaker, and mental health advocate whose diverse expertise spans multiple facets of the media industry and educational outreach. As the co-founder and CEO of Yuvaa, a purpose-driven organization dedicated to creating impactful youth media, Nikhil focuses on facilitating meaningful conversations about mental health, gender issues, and identity among Indian youth. Through Yuvaa, he has traveled extensively across 30 Indian cities and over 100 campuses, shedding light on the importance of storytelling, mental health, and gender sensitivity.
In addition to his influential role at Yuvaa, Nikhil serves on the Global Advisory Board of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers community, a prestigious position for which he is one of only ten individuals selected worldwide. The Goalkeepers initiative aims to accelerate progress towards the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, underscoring Nikhil's commitment to global accords and humanitarian issues. His invaluable contributions were recognized when he won the Goalkeepers Youth Action Accelerator Award in 2019 for capturing the experiences and mental health struggles faced by India's Gen Z.
With more than a decade of experience in the Indian media and entertainment industry, Nikhil has played a key role in producing some of the largest digital hits at Y-Films, the youth division of Yash Raj Films. As head of development and production, he was instrumental in projects like "Bang Baaja Baaraat" and contributed to the team that won the Cannes Grand Prix Glass Lion for the innovative campaign, The 6 Pack Band, in 2016. His rich career portfolio also includes tenures at notable organizations such as Viacom18 Digital, MTV India, and Hindustan Times.
Education and Achievements
Nikhil's academic foundation is rooted in technology; he earned his Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Engineering from the National Institute of Technology in Kurukshetra. His educational journey began at Modern High School in Dubai, followed by Indian School Bahrain, Our Own English High School, Ryan International School in New Delhi, and St. Fidelis School in Lucknow. This diverse educational experience provided him with a strong grounding for his multifaceted career.
Dedicated to youth engagement, Nikhil has held the role of Festival Creative Director of the India Film Project since 2018, India’s largest youth film festival, which attracts over 10,000 attendees annually. The festival hosts more than 50 conversations with some of the most influential youth icons in India, including popular figures such as Ayushmann Khurrana and Vicky Kaushal, which helps fuel cultural dialogue and inspiration among the younger generation. Nikhil’s passion for teaching is evident in his seven-year commitment as a faculty member at Jai Hind College in Mumbai, where he shares his wealth of knowledge with aspiring students.
In addition to his work in education and media, Nikhil has served as a consultant for the international non-profit organization Girl Effect, powered by Nike, which focuses on making a significant impact on girls' lives worldwide. He has also showcased his critical insights as a TV critic for 94.3 Radio One and hosted the enlightening YouTube series ‘The Awesome TV Show’ for Film Companion, where he engages with cinema lovers and industry professionals alike. Nikhil embraces every opportunity to inspire, teach, and empower, spanning various media formats, including film, digital platforms, television, advertising, and print.
Achievements
Nikhil has achieved notable recognition in both the fields of media production and social impact, making him a respected figure among peers and mentors alike. His role in the success of Y-Films and his contributions to high-profile projects have solidified his status in the entertainment industry. The Cannes Grand Prix Glass Lion award for The 6 Pack Band is a testament to his innovative thinking and skill, leading to impactful storytelling that resonates with audiences.
Through Yuvaa, Nikhil implements initiatives that address pressing issues for the youth in India, tackling vital subjects such as mental health and gender sensitivity. His commitment to advocacy is further exemplified through his involvement with the Goalkeepers community, where he collaborates with other global leaders to effect tangible change towards the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Nikhil's impactful workshops and discussions on youth-oriented topics have made a significant difference in academic institutions and corporate organizations across India.
Nikhil's expertise and passions continually fuel his desire to consult, teach, and inspire future generations, ensuring that creative storytelling, mental health awareness, and social responsibility remain at the forefront of his endeavors. He is always eager to explore new opportunities that align with his mission of driving positive change and fostering a greater understanding of youth experiences in India.
For more insight into Nikhil's work and to connect with him, he can be reached on social media @tanejamainhoon or via email at [email protected].
