Neelaj was born and raised in Torrance, CA. From an early age, he developed a strong passion for community service and helping others, participating in numerous volunteer clubs throughout middle school and high school. His dedication to serving others manifested in various ways: he tutored peers in both middle and high school, volunteered at a hospital throughout high school, and was an active member of the Torrance Youth Council, a youth government group focused on advocating for youth interests and initiatives in his hometown.

Currently, Neelaj is a fourth-year student at UCLA, majoring in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. His passion for biology and science, combined with his commitment to improving the lives of those around him, has guided his journey into healthcare. He hopes to continue on this path, working to enhance the well-being of individuals and uplift communities as a whole.

At UCLA, Neelaj is deeply involved with Bruin Beans Health Club (BBHC), an organization dedicated to raising awareness about kidney disease while also addressing broader issues such as combating medical misinformation, promoting patient advocacy, and emphasizing the importance of preventative care to help individuals lead healthier lives. With these experiences, Neelaj aspires to become a physician, where he can work closely with patients and make a meaningful impact on individuals and communities.

In the winter of 2025, Neelaj joined Level Up as a Direct Support Professional. In this role, he continues his journey of working directly with people, forming valuable interpersonal connections, and helping them lead better lives. In his free time, Neelaj enjoys going to the gym, playing basketball and football with his friends, and watching sports.