Matthew Paul (Founder and CEO)

Matthew Paul is currently a junior at Clovis North High School, California. His life changed drastically in 2017 when his brother Jacob was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3 years. Over the next several years, Matthew had a front-row view of the challenges faced by families with autistic children.

Matthew showed an early aptitude in music, starting with piano training at the age of 5 years. When he was 7 years old, he was the founding member of the children's cover band 'The Rockers' in Fargo, North Dakota which performed at several public functions in Fargo. After moving to Fresno, California in 2018, he took up violin and soon excelled at it, qualifying for the California Orchestra Director's Association (CODA) state orchestra on three occasions. He also spent time volunteering as a music mentor for younger children at his school, and volunteered time at elder care homes and Valley Children's Hospital, Madera, CA playing music solo, and with friends.

Matthew noticed early on that music seemed to have a soothing effect on his brother, who listened intently and picked up tunes that Matthew would play on piano or violin. This motivated him to look deeper into the effect of music on autistic children. He explored options of helping autistic children through music, and realized that forming an organization with his friends would be more effective than going alone. This led to the concept of Svaram in 2024 which was officially registered as a non-profit organization in California in 2025.

Youth Board Members

Ritika Hiregowdar

Ritika is a passionate pianist and dedicated music student. She started her music journey at the age of 6, and has earned accolades for her musical skills through the Music Teacher's Association of California(MTAC)including Piano Branch Honors (level 6), and Piano State Honors (level 7). Whether mentoring students new to music or helping peers with music technique, Ritika believes in the strong power of music to connect and grow. Currently a junior at Clovis North High School, Ritika is especially interested in helping spread the joy of music to neurodiverse communities, and using the power of music to improve communication, expression, and confidence in children with autism.

Achuth Vinay

Achuth is a sophomore at Clovis North High School. His broad skill set includes music (playing the flute), sciences (creating AI tools for fire prevention and mitigation), chess (Elo rating of 1600), and basketball (small forward). He has extensive experience in volunteering and currently leads the Senior Services Division for Assistance League, and is the treasurer for the organization. He possesses excellent organizational skills and has a hands-on approach to solving problems. By being part of SVARAM, he hopes to put his organizational and music skills to good use in better engagement and inclusion for the neurodivergent community.

Ayush Hegde

Ayush is a freshman at Clovis North High School with deep interests in music, math, and science. An avid piano player, he has been training in piano since he was 6, and has completed level 5 of the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) program. He also enjoys composing his own music, and creating melodies inspired by his favorite songs. He finds this relaxing and inspiring. His other interests include tennis and basketball. Ayush is passionate about volunteering and using his skills in supporting his community. By being part of SVARAM, he hopes to combine his passions for music and volunteering to support children with autism.

Board Members: Matthew Paul; Varsha Babu; Navin Paul; Anupama Poliyedath; Dayawathie Hikkaduwa Liyanage