Balshishya Gurus
KG-5th Grade

Vidya Arunachalam is a dedicated HTYG volunteer since 2013 where she enjoys the company of the kids as it brings rewarding experience. She nurtures young minds through storytelling and fun activities. Her son's journey as an HTYG student inspired her to be a teacher at HTYG. Vidya enjoys dancing, singing, board games, arts, and DIY projects. Accountant by profession, balancing her passion for community service with creative pursuits. Her hometown is Devakottai (near Rameswaram) & grew up in Chennai,Tamil nadu. 

First year volunteer at HTYG. My hometown is Chennai, Tamil Nadu. My son is a Sophomore at High School and also a student at HTYG. My hobbies are gardening and music. My favorite food and vacation spots are Thai and visiting India respectively. 

Currently in my second year as a volunteer at HTYG. Outside of teaching, I'm a music enthusiast who loves singing. Originally from Hyderabad, Telangana 

This is my second year volunteering with HTYG. Last year, I served as an assistant teacher, and this year, I am happy to serve as a lead teacher. Both of my children are also students in the HTYG program.I enjoy teaching slokas and bhajans and helping children learn about our traditions and culture. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the HTYG community and be part of the children’s learning and growth. 

My Second year volunteer at HTYG . I am originally from Andhra Pradesh, India. My daughter is 4 th grade and also a student at HTYG. In my free time, I enjoy dancing, listening to music, and going for walks. My favorite food is Thai food. I love visiting scenic places, especially places that are peaceful, calm, and relaxing. 

I have been a part of youth group for past 11 years teaching students slokas, bhajans and values being in youth group. My son also learned the values and enjoyed being with youth group until his high school. My favorite hobby is gardening, music and cooking. My hometown is Chennai. 

I have been a part of HTYG from last year. My kid is in 1st Grade. I like to spend time with little kids and tell them lot of stories. My hobbies include dancing, cooking new recipes. My favorites food is biryani, vacation spot is beach. My hometown in India is Erode, Tamil Nadu. 

State -  Orissa, India

How long have you been volunteering with the youth group - 1 year

Passion / Hobbies - 

Dancing , Singing , Sketching , Walking , Playing board games and Volunteering

Favorite Food -  Homemade Veg Food 

I am parent of a 7th grader. I enjoy walking, trekking, practicing yoga, and capturing life's beauty through photography. Community engagement is vital to me, serving as a Cultural Arts Commissioner in Maryland Heights to promote creativity and diversity, and as Webmaster on the PTO Board at my daughter's school. My bucket list includes exploring Yellowstone & Alaska’s vast wilderness, and trekking the majestic Himalayas.

HTYG volunteer since 2017. I started as assistant Balashishya teacher and I moved to teach Yuvashishyas from 2018 to 2023. In 2024, I have taken the responsibility as HTYG Joint Coordinator with Vidya Arunachalam and helping with teaching shlokas to Balashishyas. I have been teaching Bhagavad Gita to HTYG students since 2018. 

In addition I am also Executive Committee member of The Hindu Temple of St. Louis, chairing the Pooja Committee. My daughter is a Madhyamashishya and son is a Balashishya.

Professionally I work for a reputed Financial organization as Software Development Manager.

On the personal front, I recently participated in an international beauty pageant for married women and won the top 5 title. I have modeled for 2 brands in Paris fashion week 2024. I love to sing and dance and I’m an Instagram influencer.

I have been part of HTYG for the last five years as a lead teacher, assistant teacher, and notice board committee lead, as well as an active volunteer for Hindu Temple events. I have a 10th grader who is also a student at HTYG (Yuvashishya). My hobbies include gardening, cooking, walking, hiking, and shopping. My favorite foods, other than Indian cuisine, are Italian and Thai. Volunteering allows me to give back to my community and connect with amazing people.