Our story

DRYV was born out of the lived experience of our founder, who grew up in a war-torn country without the support he needed. As a child with undiagnosed dyslexia, he was often misunderstood, bullied, and abused in school in a culture where mental health and neurodiversity were rarely acknowledged or supported.

Despite these challenges, he pursued his education in India and later collaborated with international organizations. His advocacy, however, placed him in life-threatening danger, forcing him to flee Afghanistan. In the UK, he faced homelessness and worked 12-hour night shifts in warehouses just to survive.

But survival was never the end goal.

He made it his mission to stand up for those who lack representation and to connect underserved individuals with opportunity, voice, and dignity.

This is how DRYV began and we’re just getting started.

Vision

Our vision is a world where every young person no matter their background, has the chance to dream, achieve, and thrive.

We empower young people from underserved communities through education, mental health support, mentorship, and digital inclusion — giving them the tools and confidence to shape their own futures.

Mission

⦿

Meet the team behind the vision

Erfan sharifi

Founder & CEO

Erfan Sharifi is a refugee social activist and the founder of DRYV. Shaped by personal loss and growing up in conflict, he now advocates for inclusive education, mental health, and equity. His work has earned him international recognition, including being named a Global Goodwill Ambassador and a National Diversity Awards Finalist.

our core team