Tennis has become a transformative tool in the hands of two passionate young athletes from Portland, Oregon. Jiya Metha and Rohan Shah, both accomplished students and tennis players, have dedicated their time to making the sport more accessible to children who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Their nonprofit, Smashing Barriers, now in its third year, provides free equipment, clinics, and tournaments across four states. Beyond just playing tennis, they've expanded their mission through initiatives like a youth podcast called "The Career Compass," which highlights personal stories of overcoming adversity. Their work is not only about sports but also about empowering kids to believe in themselves and envision brighter futures.

Empowering Youth Through Accessible Tennis Programs

Jiya Metha and Rohan Shah are using their love for tennis as a vehicle to empower underprivileged youth. By founding Smashing Barriers, they have created an environment where children can engage with the sport regardless of their financial or social circumstances. The organization offers free clinics, distributes equipment, and hosts tournaments aimed at removing traditional entry barriers to tennis. Their efforts have reached beyond Oregon, expanding into California, Arizona, and Texas, creating a growing network of support and engagement for young players. This initiative reflects their shared belief that tennis can be more than a game—it can be a source of stability, confidence, and opportunity for kids facing difficult life situations.

The impact of Smashing Barriers goes far beyond the tennis court. Jiya and Rohan have built a program that fosters community, resilience, and personal growth among participants. By providing access to tennis, they’re offering more than just physical activity; they’re giving children a space to develop discipline, teamwork, and self-belief. The organization’s approach includes mentorship and educational support, ensuring that the benefits extend into other areas of a child's life. With chapters spreading across multiple states, Smashing Barriers continues to grow while staying true to its mission: making tennis inclusive and serving as a platform for positive change. The duo's dedication has earned recognition, including Jiya receiving the prestigious Congressional Award Gold Medal, highlighting how their grassroots efforts are shaping lives one match at a time.

Expanding Influence Through Media and Mentorship

Beyond the courts, Jiya and Rohan have leveraged media to further their mission of empowerment. They launched a youth-focused podcast titled “The Career Compass,” designed to inspire young listeners by sharing real-life stories of overcoming obstacles and achieving success. The podcast features interviews with individuals from diverse backgrounds, each sharing their journey through hardship to accomplishment. This initiative underscores their belief that personal narrative can be a powerful motivator, helping kids understand that their current circumstances don’t define their future potential. Through this medium, they aim to cultivate a mindset of perseverance and ambition among their audience.

Their podcast not only complements the tennis programs but also deepens the emotional and psychological impact of their outreach. Each episode of “The Career Compass” is crafted to highlight the importance of resilience, adaptability, and self-worth. By exposing young listeners to role models who have faced similar struggles, Jiya and Rohan are building a bridge between experience and aspiration. These narratives serve as a reminder that setbacks are temporary and that success is attainable through determination and support. As they prepare for new chapters in their own lives—Jiya entering her senior year and defending her state title, and Rohan beginning his studies at USC—the duo remains committed to growing their initiatives and continuing to uplift the next generation through both sport and storytelling.