PEOPLE WHO HELPED ME BE WHO I AM TODAY
My Parents
Much clichéd as it may sound; my parents have had a significant impact in nurturing me and encouraging me to be who I am today. My creative acumen and professional thinking is something that I learnt from my Papa (and I learnt it the hardest way possible), and my commitment and attachment to my families at Ratnagiri and Pune campuses is instilled in me by my Mummy.
They raised me with discipline, sense of perfection, conscience towards society, family, nation, environment and benevolence towards the less fortunate and I feel blessed to carry on their legacy.
Dr. Mukesh Katara
Mukesh and I began our journey in every traditional way possible, but over the years our relationship has nurtured into being supportive of each other’s dreams and that of encouragement. Every important occasion or event on the campuses at Ratnagiri or Pune, Mukesh is right beside me and that to me is one of life’s best gifts. Besides sharing a passion to travel and experience the world, we have some similar beliefs and our differences too; but the faith and trust that Mukesh placed in me and my abilities has helped me believe in me and become a stronger woman.
Amrita, Samita and Amit
On every Teachers’ Day, I say a Thank You to my three children because they have taught me (and are still teaching me) a lot more than what I learnt in school and college. Be it using technology, or creative expression, or travel plans – Amri, Sam and Amit are my ‘gurus’. All my three kids are my guide and it is to them that I turn for advice and support. They are my best supports and my worst critics but what I am today is because my children have been there for me always.
The Chhabria, The Menda & The Katara Family
My Papa had ten siblings. My Mummy had eleven and my husband had eleven siblings. Being part of a large family has its own advantages and it is a blessing to have so many uncles and aunty watch over you and your family and offer every support that they can. Growing up with so many cousins of varying ages and preferences has taught me to be resilient and open in mind which I believe has helped me listen to my team members and relate to them better. I thank everyone in my extended family
Bharat Ratna Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
Rarely does one come across an individual who is liked and respected by EVERYBODY –
Padmavibhushan Dr. R A Mashelkar
One of India pre-eminent scientist, I first met Mashelkar sir in 2002 and since then he has been an integral part of the foundation and its activities. Interaction with him is rejuvenating and encouraging. It’s his positive and innovative thinking that gives me the courage to face challenges without ever having to compromise on values and ethics.
Dr. Ganesh Natarajan
Ganesh and Uma have been one of the well-wishers and supporters of the work that we do through Hope Foundation. As one of the Advisory Council members, Ganesh has always been encouraging and helpful. Ganesh inspires me with his ability to think YOUNG, be well-network and more importantly RELEVANT to the younger generation.
Sameer Dua
What began as professional association eventually has developed into a strong friendship. Both, Sameer’s and my parents shared similar cultural background (having to leave their homeland and set up an entirely new life in India post partition) but Sameer and I share the passion to create opportunities and possibilities of a better world. Sameer has been a mentor and an interventionalist in not just disrupting my thoughts and beliefs but allowing me to broaden my thinking and open my mind to possibilities.
Prof. M S Pillai
Though our association began as a teacher-student, over the years Prof. Pillai became my mentor, an inspiration and more importantly the epitome of an ideal educator. He emphasized on being and doing good and even today, I try and instil many of his principles and holistic concept of education on both campuses. I always admired his ability to stand up for what he believed in and even take on the system to ensure that we create an ethical, and sustainable education model that creates a more just world. His innovative and creative teaching methods has been a motivation for me to create dynamic academic environment.
Usha & Shyam Raheja
Being raised in a large family (both Chhabria & Menda) with many uncles, aunties and cousins, I have always had many people who would advise me and support me. But as far as I can remember Ushadidi has been like the Rock of Gibraltar in my life. She is the one person I turn to for advice and guidance. The knowledge and wisdom that she shared with me has helped me a lot in my life. Her sincere support and mentorship in all matters; be it personal or professional, is something I value a lot. To Shyam Jiju I express my deepest gratitude for believing in me and being the guiding light in my life always. I truly appreciate and value everything that I have learnt (and continue to learn) from both of you.
