I am a senior at Del Norte High School in 4S Ranch. I really love bioinformatics and math, and I am passionate about helping people with special needs. My journey started in middle school when I joined a buddy program and saw the challenges they faced. That is when I decided to help them start their own businesses. I founded a non-profit called “The Special Entrepreneurs” to make this happen. It brings me a lot of happiness to assist these individuals in their entrepreneurial journeys and make our community more inclusive and supportive for everyone. (https://www.thespecialpreneurs.org/)
About Vidhi Kulkarni
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My family consists of me, my brother, and my parents. We have lived in San Diego my whole life, and I really love both my hometown and my community. I have a strong attachment to my family, and I love them dearly.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently a senior at Del Norte High School in 4S Ranch. I am deeply passionate about bioinformatics and mathematics, as they have always fascinated me. However, my greatest motivation comes from my commitment to assisting individuals with special needs. This intersection of science and compassion is where I find purpose and fulfillment in my work and life. My journey in supporting people with special needs began during my participation in a middle school buddy program. As I witnessed the unique challenges these individuals faced, I realized there was a significant need for empowerment and support. It was through this experience that I discovered my calling: to enable individuals with special needs to start their own businesses and become entrepreneurs. With this vision, I founded a non-profit organization to promote entrepreneurship. “The Special Entrepreneurs” organization has allowed me to follow my passion and has also given me the incredible opportunity to make a positive impact on my community. I find immense joy and fulfillment in assisting individuals with special needs in their entrepreneurial journeys and thus contributing to a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Follow your passion. Find a cause that connects with you and work tirelessly towards it. There is immense joy in sharing your skills and knowledge to help others. Even the simplest gestures of kindness can make a world of difference.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5 to 10 years, I see myself extending my reach and helping even larger communities. My goal is to see “The Special Entrepreneurs” reaching in every corner of the country, and perhaps even on a global scale, where communities unite to support these special entrepreneurs and share what they have to offer. I strongly believe that the world can become a better place when we celebrate our differences and stand by each other. I want people to understand the importance of focusing on their abilities rather than their limitations. Every individual possesses a unique talent that they can share with the world, and I hope to continue spreading this message of empowerment and inclusivity.
Vidhi Kulkarni & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Two of my favorite restaurants in our community are Board and Brew and Miguel’s
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in 4S Ranch for 16 years. What I cherish most about our community is its warm, close-knit nature. We are like an extended family, always ready to lend a helping hand, and I admire the friendly and supportive atmosphere here.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Sofia is someone who has made a significant impact and is the most interesting person I have met in our community. She has an online store on The Special Entrepreneurs’ website, where she sells beautiful graduation leis. And she’s not stopping there; Sofia’s working on launching a new store to sell t-shirts. I am genuinely excited for Sofia, and her determination and positive spirit are truly inspiring.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Baskin-Robbins brings memories of carefree summers spent having ice cream with my friends. It’s a delightful reminder of wonderful times.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The remarkable thing about our community is the strong bonds we share and our willingness to support one another. It’s like a big, caring family, and I love how friendly and helpful everyone is
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I would also be honored to have lunch with Michelle Obama. Her role as the former First Lady of the United States and her continued work on issues like education, health, and military families have made a significant impact. She’s an inspirational figure, and I would love to hear more about her experiences and insights. For our lunch, I would suggest meeting at “George’s at the Cove” in La Jolla, which offers a stunning ocean view and a peaceful atmosphere conducive to meaningful conversation. It would be a great place to discuss her work and her thoughts on empowering communities.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Knives Out” is definitely one of my favorite movies.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Not many people know this, but I’m actually double-jointed, and I spent a considerable part of my elementary and middle school years practicing karate.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
San Diego weather is an easy 10 in my book!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My mom is my ultimate inspiration for always pushing me to do my best. Whenever I lack confidence in something, she’s there to support and guide me.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
I admire non-profits that support individuals with disabilities.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to follow my passion and never be afraid to pursue a cause I truly believe in. There’s immense joy in sharing your skills and helping others, whether it’s something as simple as sharing what you know or do.
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
I live in the wonderful 4S Ranch neighborhood.
What I love about my Neighborhood:
What I love most about my neighborhood in 4S Ranch is the strong sense of community and the close bonds we share. It’s a place where neighbors support each other, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
My ideal San Diego weekend would involve spending quality time outdoors, perhaps at one of our beautiful beaches, enjoying the sun and ocean breeze. It would also include exploring local cultural events or trying out some delicious local cuisine. Ultimately, the perfect San Diego weekend would be about relaxation, exploration, and making lasting memories with friends and family.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
When I think of ‘HOME,’ I envision it as cozy, filled with love, and the epitome of comfort.
