Arunachal’s Youth Icons are Stories of Passion, Progress, and Pride
Across Arunachal Pradesh, a new generation of youth is emerging with courage, creativity, and a deep sense of responsibility. Be it in sports, music, entrepreneurship, activism, or environmental conservation, these young individuals are charting bold paths, breaking stereotypes, and leading by example.
Their journeys are not just personal victories, but they represent the collective aspirations of a state on the rise. By uplifting communities, embracing innovation, and staying rooted in identity, these youth icons are reshaping Arunachal’s narrative for the better.
This blog celebrates a few of Arunachal’s most inspiring young leaders whose stories speak of passion, progress, and pride.
Hillang Yajik – Breaking Barriers in Bodybuilding
Hailing from Kurung Kumey, 25-year-old Hillang Yajik has created history as Arunachal’s first female international bodybuilding gold medalist. At the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 in Bhutan, she brought home one gold and one bronze, a defining moment for both the state and the country.
Having represented India at the 56th Asian Bodybuilding Championship and the 15th WBPF World Championship, Hillang has become a symbol of strength, perseverance, and female empowerment in sports.
Omang Dodum – Arunachal’s Football Prodigy
At just 18, Omang Dodum from Jollang village, East Kameng, has emerged as one of India’s most promising footballers. A striker for Punjab FC, Omang rose to national fame after clinching the Golden Boot in the Reliance Foundation Development League 2024, scoring an incredible 14 goals.
He has proudly represented India in international events such as the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2023 in Thailand and the SAFF U-19 Championship 2025, where he netted his first international goal in front of a home crowd in Yupia.
Rito Riba and Taba Chake – Voice of the Mountains
Rito Riba, the 25-year-old singer-songwriter from Pasighat, has captivated hearts across the country. His musical journey began at 17, and he rose to fame with hits like “Kakene No”, “Meri Banogi Kya”, and “Heer Ranjha”.
After a notable audition in Indian Idol Season 13, Rito continued his rise with the soulful duet “Pyaar Aata Hai”, featuring Shreya Ghoshal. His YouTube channel, with over 200K subscribers, stands as a testament to his ability to merge tradition with modern soundscapes, making him a cultural ambassador for Arunachal.
From traditional tribal chants echoing through the valleys to indie sounds that resonate across continents, Arunachal Pradesh has birthed a unique musical identity. Among its standout voices is Taba Chake, the fingerstyle guitarist and multilingual singer-songwriter whose soulful compositions beautifully blend Nyishi, Hindi, and English. His music carries the rhythm of the hills, speaking to both the roots and the aspirations of the youth.
Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR) – Guardians of the Waters
Founded in 2016 by Advocate S.D. Loda, YMCR is a youth-driven NGO tackling river pollution through action and awareness. From monthly clean-up drives in rivers like the Yagamso to campaigns on waste segregation and the circular economy, YMCR is building a greener Arunachal from the grassroots.
Their impact has been widely recognised through awards like the Swachhata Hi Seva Award (2024) and the Jan Bhagidari Award. YMCR’s model of action-driven advocacy is empowering communities to protect their environment with pride and purpose.
Rupa Bayor – Kicking Down Barriers in Taekwondo
Rupa Bayor, 23, has become a trailblazer in Indian martial arts. In October 2024, she became the first Indian to break into the Top 10 of the World Poomsae Rankings, making her a national icon in Taekwondo.
Her gold at the 8th Asian Taekwondo Championships team trials and India’s first medal in the event mark historic milestones. As an athlete and advocate, Rupa is pushing for greater recognition and investment in martial arts, especially for women.
Chum Darang – Beauty with Purpose
From Pasighat to the national spotlight, Chum Darang is a shining example of talent meeting purpose. An award-winning actor (Paatal Lok, Badhaai Do), entrepreneur (Café Chu), and youth leader, she blends glamour with grounded activism.
Her recent appearance in the Top 5 of Bigg Boss 18 won hearts across the country, while her Environment Protection Award (2025) from the Women & Child Development Department affirms her dedication to sustainable and inclusive causes.
Arunachal’s Youth: Shaping the Future Today
Whether it’s lifting trophies, composing songs, winning hearts, or cleaning rivers, Arunachal’s youth are writing a new story for the state and the nation. Rooted in heritage and driven by hope, they are showing the world what dedication, creativity, and community spirit can achieve.
Their journeys reflect more than success, they embody a movement toward progress, pride, and purpose. As these young icons lead by example, they inspire countless others to dream bigger, act boldly, and shape a future that honours both tradition and transformation.
The list is by no means exhaustive, as Arunachal Pradesh continues to nurture and inspire numerous emerging talents across diverse fields.
