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 and family background, 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 coaching, mental health support, mentorship, and digital inclusion, giving them the tools and confidence to shape their own futures.

Mission

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Meet the team behind the vision

Erfan sharifi

Founder

Erfan Sharifi is an Afghan humanitarian, social activist, and Goodwill Ambassador. Shaped by personal loss and growing up in conflict, he is committed to advocating 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 for Positive Role Model.

Erfan’s mission is rooted in the belief that humanity comes before division. He does not see barriers in religion, background, nationality, or difference. His purpose is to support people wherever he can, build bridges between communities, and use his voice to create opportunity, dignity, and hope for those who need it most.

our core team