About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
The Substance Safety Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that started in West Virginia, the state with the highest opioid overdose death rate in the nation, and scaled nationally. We focus on removing opioids from circulation and educating youth.
Team
Pavan is a junior at Morgantown High School and the founder of The Substance Safety Project, which he founded after seeing the effects of opioid abuse and addiction in his local community in West Virginia. Through his leadership, the organization has reached K-12 students across the state, delivered educational programming, and helped safely dispose of thousands of unused medications. In addition to his advocacy work, he is a student researcher in computational biophysics and drug discovery, and will be attending the 2026 MIT Research Science Institute.
Pavan Subramani
Founder and Executive Director
Misha is a current sophomore at Valley Christian High School with a strong interest in data science. She joined substance safety project to create real impact in her community regarding safe drug disposal and awareness. She is particularly passionate about robotics and enjoys developing skills in underwater machinery. Outside of her work, she enjoys scuba diving, hiking, and spending time with family!
Misha Kharya
Founder and Executive Director of California Chapter
Roma is a student at Waubonsie Valley High School in Illinois with an interest in healthcare, biotechnology, and public health. She is passionate about using science in practical ways, especially through substance safety education and community outreach. As Chapter Founder and Executive Director for Illinois, she hopes to create meaningful events that raise awareness and help her community stay informed and make safer, more responsible choices.
Roma Shree Dinesh Kumar
Founder and Executive Director of Illinois Chapter
Vandika is currently a high school student in Trinidad and Tobago, studying physics, chemistry, pure and applied mathematics and communications. She's also a Junior Fellow of the Harvard Undergraduate Microbiology Society, as well as the Director of Physics, Ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago with the International Youth STEAM Advisors. She is passionate about using STEM applications for impactful community development. Outside of academics, she is an avid F1 fan and a lover of iced coffee!
Vandika Doon
Founder and Executive Director of Trinidad and Tobago Chapter