Spelling Bee Alum Pivots to Voter Education Work

November 1, 2026 - 22:56

A San Angelo teenager who once drew national attention for his spelling bee performances has shifted his attention to a different kind of civic challenge. Akash Vukoti founded the nonprofit organization What Is On My Ballot, a project aimed at making voter education easier to understand through digital tools and plain language guides.

The organization focuses on helping people figure out what appears on their ballots before they reach the voting booth. Rather than relying on dense official documents, the group builds resources that break down races, measures, and other items into clear explanations. The goal is to reduce confusion and encourage more informed participation in local and national elections.

Vukoti's path from competitive spelling to civic technology reflects a broader interest in public service and accessible information. His work with the nonprofit has centered on creating guides that walk users through the voting process step by step, with an emphasis on clarity over jargon.

The effort comes as voter education groups across the country look for new ways to reach younger and first time voters. By combining digital tools with straightforward explanations, What Is On My Ballot aims to fill a gap for people who want to vote but feel unsure about what they will see on their ballots. Vukoti continues to lead the organization while balancing school and other commitments.