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OUR PEOPLE


Adil Qureishi
ADIL QUREISHI
Coordinator - Health
ADIL QUREISHI

Coordinator - Health
At UWM, Dr. Adil works on strengthening public health programmes focused on nutrition, WASH, infection prevention, and primary healthcare. Since 2022, he has been contributing to the implementation of projects such as Poshan, Sehat, Anaemia Awareness, IPC, and PHC Strengthening.

A trained clinician with a degree in Public Health from IIPH Gandhinagar, Dr. Adil has prior experience in emergency medicine and healthcare training. Outside of work, he enjoys fitness, reading about history, and following developments in global health.
Ajay Govale
AJAY GOVALE
Vice President - Climate & Community Resiliency
AJAY GOVALE

Vice President - Climate & Community Resiliency
Ajay has been with UWM since June 2007 and is currently a member of the senior management team, contributing to organisational development and visioning. He leads the Climate Action and Community Resiliency teams' initiatives, including nature-based solutions for wetlands, mangrove and marine conservation, sustainable and regenerative agriculture, water conservation, road safety, disaster management, public health campaigns, and clean-up drives in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.

Ajay holds a Master's in Social Work from TISS, Mumbai, specializing in Urban and Rural Community Development, and graduated from the College of Social Work, Nirmala Niketan. He has expertise in program development, multi-stakeholder partnership management, and community participation. Additionally, Ajay has served as visiting faculty for Emergency Response Management for PTMBA at NMIMS, reflecting his deep interest in community-based disaster management, road safety, and environmental issues.
Akbar Shikalgar
AKBAR SHIKALGAR
Coordinator - Grant Management
AKBAR SHIKALGAR

Coordinator - Grant Management
As part of the Grant Management team, Akbar supports the implementation and grant management of Project Suvidha – a community health and sanitation initiative that serves low-income households in Mumbai.

He has been working with UWM since 2022, and holds a Master’s in Water Policy and Governance from TISS. with a focus on sanitation. He brings experience in researching urban sanitation infrastructure across city tiers. Akbar’s academic interests also include History and Marathi literature.
Anil Parmar
ANIL PARMAR
Vice President - Education, Health & Financial Security
ANIL PARMAR

Vice President - Education, Health & Financial Security
Anil joined UWM in 2008 and has wide-ranging experience in programme designing, management, monitoring and evaluation, impact assessment and reporting. He leads the Education, Health, and Financial Security teams at UWM, and works extensively with the government in public-private partnerships, bringing sustainability and scale to our interventions. Anil has an MBA in Social Entrepreneurship from NMIMS, Mumbai and is a postgraduate from the college of social work, Nirmala Niketan.

He is also an Acumen India Fellow and has been part Advanced Leadership Fellowship programme of United Way Worldwide. Additionally, he serves as a visiting faculty member at NMIMS, Mumbai. Passionate about community work, Anil’s focus is always on making a long-term impact through scalable, sustainable initiatives.
Ankur Joshi
ANKUR JOSHI
Assistant Manager - Climate Action
ANKUR JOSHI

Assistant Manager - Climate Action
As part of the Climate Action team, Ankur leads initiatives focused on biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration.

A botanist with over 12 years of experience in ecology and plant taxonomy, he brings deep research expertise to the team. Outside of work, Ankur enjoys music, Marvel movies, cricket, and reading about folklore, psychology, and geography.
Annabelle D
ANNABELLE D'COSTA
Assistant Manager - Communications
ANNABELLE D'COSTA

Assistant Manager - Communications
Annabelle looks after UWM's internal and external communications. Prior to joining UWM, she worked for about 4 years with the corporate sector in media and entertainment. She also has about 1.5 years of experience in the development sector, primarily in communications for social change and impact (C4SC) ranging from content creation and conceptualisation; video production; website, social media and eCommerce management; to research and design. She has also worked with diverse communities such as the artisans and craftspeople of Kutch, women Dalit farmers of Telangana, and even women experiencing homelessness in Mumbai.

Annabelle has done her Master's in Development from Azim Premji University, Bengaluru, and her Bachelor's in English Literature from St. Xavier's Autonomous College, Mumbai.
Annie Antony
ANNIE ANTONY
Executive - NGO Relations
ANNIE ANTONY

Executive - NGO Relations
Annie has joined the Community Relations team at United Way Mumbai, where she is responsible for conducting due diligence and identifying appropriate NGOs for impactful projects. In her previous role as an NGO Executive, she worked to bridge connections between NGOs and corporate CSR initiatives.

With a Master’s in Social Work, Annie is deeply committed to driving social change and improving the well-being of underserved communities.
Ashwin Kadam
ASHWIN KADAM
Executive - Finance
ASHWIN KADAM

Executive - Finance
Ashwin is a Finance Executive at United Way Mumbai, overseeing accounts payables and receivables. He has previously worked with Magic Bus India Foundation and Pentagon El-Mech Solutions Pvt Ltd., focusing on financial operations like invoice processing, vendor reconciliation, and financial record maintenance.

A Commerce graduate from Mumbai University, Ashwin is passionate about finance and accounting and looks forward to developing his leadership skills while embracing new challenges.
Ashwini Sonar
ASHWINI SONAR
Coordinator - Education
ASHWINI SONAR

Coordinator - Education
Ashwini supports the implementation of education initiatives at UWM, working closely with schools and stakeholders to ensure smooth coordination and delivery of activities.

She holds a degree in Social Work from Nirmala Niketan and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. With 3 years of experience in the development sector, she brings strong on-ground program coordination skills. In her free time, Ashwini enjoys dancing and playing PUBG.
Bhavini Raval
BHAVINI RAVAL
Executive - Finance
BHAVINI RAVAL

Executive - Finance
At United Way Mumbai, Bhavini Raval oversees vital financial operations that keep our mission moving forward seamlessly. Her diverse experience of 6+ years in the Corporate & Investment Banking industry with a leading investment bank, equipped her with a keen understanding of financial intricacies. She has also been lauded for her role in optimizing team expenditure, enhancing payment processes, and driving improved productivity.

Bhavini has completed her M.Com. She is a connoisseur of classical music, finds solace in light reading, and embraces travel as a means to explore and discover new horizons
Bhawna Anjaly
BHAWNA ANJALY
Manager - Impact Assessment
BHAWNA ANJALY

Manager - Impact Assessment
Dr. Bhawna Anjaly handles Monitoring & Evaluation and Research at UWM, specializing in both qualitative and quantitative data analysis, research, and report writing. Over the past one year at UWM, she has led the Impact Assessment team, establishing systems for data collection and collation, conducting capacity-building trainings for internal teams and partner NGOs, and overseeing external third-party impact assessments. She is also part of an Action Research project on Regenerative Agriculture, which she finds particularly engaging. Holding a PhD in Management, she brings a wealth of expertise to her work. Prior to UWM, Dr. Anjaly worked with Charities Aid Foundation India.

Outside of her professional commitments, she nurtures her creative side through reading, poetry, painting, and enjoys traveling to gain new perspectives on diverse cultures.
Bikesh Singh
BIKESH SINGH
Manager - Finance
BIKESH SINGH

Manager - Finance
Bikesh is a post-graduate from Mumbai University with a diploma in Tax and Financial Management from the Welingkar Institute of Management. Before joining UWM, he worked for six years at Ambuja Cement Foundation, gaining over a decade of experience in finance, accounts, audit, and compliance.

Known for his innovative approach and eagerness to tackle challenges, Bikesh enjoys playing cricket, singing, and traveling in his free time.
Celecia Johnson
CELECIA JOHNSON
Coordinator – Grant Management
CELECIA JOHNSON

Coordinator – Grant Management
At United Way Mumbai, Celecia works with the Grant Management team, supporting grant coordination, donor servicing, and internal processes to ensure smooth execution and compliance across partnerships. She previously worked with Educate Girls in the Resource Mobilisation team, focusing on corporate donor servicing. Celecia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dog, reading, painting, watching movies, and exploring new eateries.
Celine Monteiro
CELINE MONTEIRO
Executive Assistant
CELINE MONTEIRO

Executive Assistant
At UWM, Celine provides administrative and coordination support across teams.

She brings over 9 years of experience from the Centre for Social Action, where she supported the Director and managed project coordination and corporate relations. Celine holds a PGDM in Finance from Welingkar Institute and a Diploma in Executive Assistance from Davar's College.
Chinmay Patil
CHINMAY PATIL
Assistant Manager - Financial Security
CHINMAY PATIL

Assistant Manager - Financial Security
As part of the Financial Security team at UWM, Chinmay manages the end-to-end implementation of livelihood projects, with a focus on women's entrepreneurship through Project Saksham.

Since joining United Way Mumbai in 2022, Chinmay has gained experience in donor engagement, budgeting, recruitment, and overall project management. He particularly values the insight he's gained into the diverse small businesses run by women across India.
Christiana Stephen
CHRISTIANA STEPHEN
Assistant Manager - Financial Security
CHRISTIANA STEPHEN

Assistant Manager - Financial Security
Christiana works on strengthening livelihoods and supporting vulnerable communities through her work on the Financial Security vertical.

She holds degrees in humanities and social work from the College of Social Work Nirmala Niketan and Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Before joining United Way Mumbai, she worked with PRADAN in the tribal belt of Madhya Pradesh, where she focused on women’s collectives and livelihood initiatives. Her interests lie in alternative livelihoods and reintegrating institutionalized children. In her free time, she enjoys Enid Blyton books, comedy-action films, k-dramas, and long leisure walks.
Christina Kinny
CHRISTINA KINNY
Senior Manager - Grant Management
CHRISTINA KINNY

Senior Manager - Grant Management
As part of the Grant Management at UWM, Christina supports the planning, implementation, and monitoring of grant-funded projects across thematic areas. She works closely with corporate partners, government stakeholders, and grassroots organisations to ensure that programmes are designed for long-term impact and meet both community and donor goals.

Christina holds a B.A. in Economics and Sociology and a Master’s in Social Work from the College of Social Work, Nirmala Niketan. She has been a part of the development sector since 2012. Prior to joining United Way Mumbai, she worked with Under The Mango Tree Society, supporting livelihood generation for marginal farmers through indigenous beekeeping. She then led CSR at Mastek Foundation, where she contributed to policy development, NGO incubation, and partnership strategies. A gymnastics enthusiast, Christina also enjoys writing and exploring regional cuisines in her free time.
Daniel Raj
DANIEL RAJ
Senior Manager - Financial Security
DANIEL RAJ

Senior Manager - Financial Security
As part of the Financial Security team at UWM, Daniel leads initiatives that strengthen the economic resilience of vulnerable communities. He designs and manages programmes that promote sustainable livelihoods, financial inclusion, and micro-enterprise development, working closely with grassroots partners and local stakeholders.

He holds a master’s in Social Work – Community Development from Madras Christian College and has over a decade of experience in livelihoods, financial inclusion, and social empowerment. A certified UPG model specialist by World Vision International, he has helped promote 50,000+ entrepreneurs and supported the formation of five Farmer Producer Organisations across India. Daniel enjoys travelling to remote places, meeting people, and learning from their ways of life.
Debopama Bandyopadhyay
DEBOPAMA BANDYOPADHYAY
Assistant Manager - Campaigns
DEBOPAMA BANDYOPADHYAY

Assistant Manager - Campaigns
Debopama supports the planning and execution of campaigns at UWM, with a key focus on the Tata Mumbai Marathon, where UWM is the official philanthropy partner. She works closely with NGOs, corporates, and individual fundraisers to help them maximise their impact through the platform.

With a background in Political Science, South and South East Asian Studies, and Social Work, Debopama brings nearly four years of experience in the development sector. She is detail-oriented, committed to learning, and passionate about creating meaningful change.
Deepali Patil
DEEPALI PATIL
Executive - Human Resources
DEEPALI PATIL

Executive - Human Resources
Deepali supports day-to-day HR operations and the recruitment process at UWM. She plays a key role in ensuring smooth internal functioning and is keen to explore all aspects of HR as she grows in her role.

She holds a Master’s in Business Management from K.P.B. Hinduja College of Commerce and has previously worked with Balance Nutrition and Trust Capital Services. Deepali has always felt connected to the social sector and finds purpose in contributing to meaningful work. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, writing poetry, doodling, and dancing—constantly seeking new experiences and self-growth.
Ganesh Dhandre
GANESH DHANDRE
Coordinator - Finance
GANESH DHANDRE

Coordinator - Finance
Ganesh manages core financial operations at UWM, including accounts payable, receivables, banking processes, and day-to-day financial transactions. He brings over six years of experience from his time at Swades Foundation, where he handled a wide range of accounting functions.

With a Master’s degree in Commerce, Ganesh is committed to ensuring smooth financial systems and supporting compliance across projects. He looks forward to contributing to UWM’s impact-driven work while continuing to grow professionally. In his free time, he enjoys playing cricket and watching Netflix.
Ganeshri Khare
GANESHRI KHARE
Deputy Manager - Human Resources
GANESHRI KHARE

Deputy Manager - Human Resources
Ganeshri oversees and strengthens Human Resources at UWM, aligning HR strategies with organizational goals and fostering growth. With expertise in talent management, employee engagement, people management, and training and development, she plays a key role in building a strong organizational culture. Before joining UWM, Ganeshri began her career as a medical coder and transitioned into human resources, gaining valuable experience in talent acquisition. She is passionate about education, scaling business models, people development, and youth empowerment.

Ganeshri holds a BSc, a Postgraduate Degree in Human Resource Management, and a Diploma in Personal Counseling.
George J Aikara
GEORGE J AIKARA
Chief Executive Officer
GEORGE J AIKARA

Chief Executive Officer
George joined United Way Mumbai In April 2011. He has a management degree from SIBM, Pune, and has previously worked in corporate positions in India as well as internationally. He is a United Way Worldwide global fellow, with a passion for furthering philanthropy, sustainable community initiatives, building impactful solutions, and organisational development. He is dedicated to applying UWM's expertise to help funders and partners achieve effective, efficient, and intelligent social impact, while maintaining the highest levels of integrity, empathy, and social work ethics in service of our vulnerable communities.

A voracious reader and knowledge junkie, he has a very wide range of interests and strives to devote as much time as possible to each. He is at his happiest when called upon to solve problems of scale or process.
Georgina Fernandes
GEORGINA FERNANDES
Deputy Manager - Education
GEORGINA FERNANDES

Deputy Manager - Education
Georgina supports the education vertical at UWM, overseeing programme strategy, content development, and on-ground implementation. She works closely with schools, partners, and stakeholders to strengthen foundational learning, inclusion, and quality education outcomes.

With over two decades of experience in education and environment, she has collaborated with 1000+ schools and organisations like Naandi, Educate Girls, Akanksha, TFI, and Godrej, and has supported the MP Education Department on the FLN mission. She holds diplomas in Inclusive Education (Azim Premji University) and Business Management (NMIMS). Outside work, Georgina sings in a choir, enjoys reading, and occasionally birdwatching. Lately, she’s been exploring dot mandala painting in her free time.
Ginelle Putman
GINELLE PUTMAN
Coordinator - Campaigns
GINELLE PUTMAN

Coordinator - Campaigns
As the Coordinator - Campaigns, Ginelle supports the planning and execution of campaigns such as the Tata Mumbai Marathon.

Before joining UWM, she worked as a Program Coordinator at The Lighthouse Project for three years. She also holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Nirmala Niketan.
Jayeeta Saha
JAYEETA SAHA
Manager – Education
JAYEETA SAHA

Manager – Education
As part of the Education vertical at UWM, Jayeeta supports the design and implementation of education programmes focused on improving learning outcomes in underserved communities. She works closely with schools, educators, and local stakeholders to strengthen systems and ensure holistic student development.

She previously worked at Barefoot Edu Foundation and is an alum of the Teach For India and ISLI fellowships. Jayeeta holds a Master’s in English Literature and is passionate about building inclusive and impactful learning spaces.
Karan Desai
KARAN DESAI
Assistant Manager - Community Resiliency
KARAN DESAI

Assistant Manager - Community Resiliency
Karan is part of the Community Resiliency vertical at United Way Mumbai, where he supports road safety programmes aimed at reducing accidents and building safer communities. His work involves on-ground implementation, stakeholder engagement, and creating awareness on responsible road use.

An Automobile Engineering graduate from Pillai’s College of Engineering, Karan previously worked at Green Earth Translogistics Pvt. Ltd., where his interest in road safety began. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling, bodybuilding, and playing cricket, having represented the Thane city team.
Kashish Warikoo
KASHISH WARIKOO
Coordinator - Education
KASHISH WARIKOO

Coordinator - Education
Kashish holds a Bachelor's Degree in Banking and Insurance from H.R. College of Commerce and Economics and a Masters in Social Work from Nirmala Niketan. Before joining UWM, she interned with us for a while on different projects across departments. Kashish has interned at various non-profits such as Make A Wish Foundation, AIESEC in Kielce, Poland, Impact India Foundation and the LifeLine Express.

Her interests include dancing, reading books of various genres and binge-watching shows and movies in her free time.
Manali Bhavsar
MANALI BHAVSAR
Assistant Manager - Workplace Campaigns
MANALI BHAVSAR

Assistant Manager - Workplace Campaigns
Manali holds a Masters's degree in Extension Education from SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai. She has 10 years of experience in the development sector, working in the fields of hunger, land rights, leadership, gender, education, governance, livelihood, life skills for adolescents, and value education. Manali’s core areas of experience are in program management, planning, preparing training modules, budgets, reports, newsletters, case studies, grant proposals, managing relationships with stakeholders in government as well as the private sector.

Prior to joining UWM, Manali worked with organizations like UNICEF, ISRO, and Rise Against Hunger India. She loves interacting with people and outside work she enjoys singing, watching movies, and cooking.
Manish Parmar
MANISH PARMAR
Manager - Community Resiliency
MANISH PARMAR

Manager - Community Resiliency
Manish is a post graduate in Social Work from College of Social Work, Nirmala Niketan. He has 14 years of professional experience in the social development sector. He has worked with organizations like Haqdarshak Empower Solution, Safe Kids Foundation, Don Bosco and SNEHA. Furthermore, he has managed multistate, impactful projects around child safety, livelihood and skill development, education and public health. Manish is a state-level basketball player. He enjoys singing Hindi songs, reading fiction books and articles on current affairs. He also loves travelling to hill stations.

Mokshida Jogi
MOKSHIDA JOGI
Assistant Manager – Education
MOKSHIDA JOGI

Assistant Manager – Education
Mokshida supports the design, execution, and evaluation of programmes that aim to create meaningful learning outcomes for communities. She has previously worked with organisations in the social impact space,, gaining hands-on experience in programme management, monitoring, and donor coordination. Mokshida holds an MSW from TISS Mumbai and is passionate about driving social impact through education.

Beyond work, she enjoys swimming, dancing, playing musical instruments, and exploring new places.
Mrinalini Tiwari
MRINALINI TIWARI
Coordinator - Campaigns
MRINALINI TIWARI

Coordinator - Campaigns
Mrinalini has recently joined United Way Mumbai as a Coordinator in the Campaigns Team. She brings over 5 years of experience in the development sector, driven by her passion for creating a positive impact. Academically, she is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Commerce graduate.

Previously, she focused on education, gender, and youth empowerment while volunteering in various capacities.
Mukesh Dev
MUKESH DEV
Senior Manager - Climate Action
MUKESH DEV

Senior Manager - Climate Action
Mukesh completed his M.Tech in 2012, having specialized in Soil and Water conservation Engineering. He was soon recruited for the Madhya Pradesh government's IWMP (Integrated Watershed Management Programme). His scope of work involved executing technical planning, coordinating with various stakeholders and supervising the construction of various structures, like stop dams, gabion, pond, percolation tanks etc. His project was placed 3rd in the Government of India "River Revival Project".

Mukesh enjoys reading and writing poetry.
Nandita Rao
NANDITA RAO
Assistant Vice President - Grant Management
NANDITA RAO

Assistant Vice President - Grant Management
Nandita is currently the Assistant Vice President (AVP) at United Way Mumbai, where she manages end-to-end CSR portfolios for corporate partners. Her focus is on nurturing and expanding donor partnerships and building a team of exceptional United Way Mumbai ambassadors within the Corporate Partnerships department.

She began her journey at United Way in April 2013 after graduating from the University of Westminster (London) with an MA in Human Resources Management, funded by a full scholarship. Prior to her master’s degree, Nandita gained significant experience at a top executive search firm, where she recruited talent nationwide. Passionate about social causes, she initially served as an Executive at United Way Mumbai, overseeing payroll giving and employee volunteering opportunities in workplace campaigns, and later led the workplace campaign team for nine years.
Natasha Albuquerque
NATASHA ALBUQUERQUE
Assistant Vice President - Investor Relations & Administration
NATASHA ALBUQUERQUE

Assistant Vice President - Investor Relations & Administration
As the AVP, Natasha plays a dual role in overseeing fundraising, donor relations, and organisational administration. She is also responsible for developing and implementing strategies for resource mobilisation, stakeholder engagement, and communication, ensuring sustainable support for the organisation’s initiatives.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and a Post Graduate Certificate in Development Management from the S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research. Prior to joining UWM, she spent 11 years with a child rights non-profit, managing donor relations, finance, and administration to support education programmes for marginalised urban and tribal communities. Beyond work, Natasha is an avid reader and has a deep interest in art and craft. Beyond work, Natasha is an avid reader and has a deep interest in art and craft.
Prachi Gaikwad
PRACHI GAIKWAD
Coordinator – Finance
PRACHI GAIKWAD

Coordinator – Finance
As Coordinator – Finance, Prachi will support financial operations and processes across projects. Prior to this, she worked at Access Life Assistance Foundation as a Senior Accounts Executive, handling finance and accounting responsibilities.

She holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce with a specialization in Accounting and Finance.
Prachi Nautiyal
PRACHI NAUTIYAL
Vice President - Grant Management, Workplace Campaigns & Impact Assessment
PRACHI NAUTIYAL

Vice President - Grant Management, Workplace Campaigns & Impact Assessment
Prachi Nautiyal joined United Way Mumbai in 2013. She heads the Grant Management, Workplace Campaigns and Impact Assessment teams. She comes with experience in the development sector in the key areas of program planning and implementation, resource mobilisation, grant management in CSR. Over the years, her key focus has been in the areas of women's studies, geriatrics, early child development and education, and developing and testing modules in the area of sustainable livelihoods through cluster-based approaches & self-help groups in non-agricultural livelihood in India.

Prachi has worked extensively with the government in public-private partnerships, with multilateral funding organisations in the areas of fundraising, research, program planning & implementation, monitoring and review of field programs and has written research papers in gender studies. Prachi holds a Master's degree in Linguistics from Delhi University and has done her post-graduation in Social Work from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences.
Priya Kale
PRIYA KALE
Assistant Manager - Climate Action
PRIYA KALE

Assistant Manager - Climate Action
Priya has a post-graduation in Social Work, specializing in Dalit and Tribal Studies and Action, and an MPhil in Women's Studies. She has extensive experience working in the areas of women and child development, education, nutrition, and health.

Along with social work, she has a keen interest in photography, which allows her to capture and convey stories through her lens. She also enjoys reading, playing badminton, travelling, and dancing.
PRIYANKA GALA
PRIYANKA GALA
Coordinator – Grant Management
PRIYANKA GALA

Coordinator – Grant Management
Priyanka supports the team in designing, monitoring, and implementing impactful programmes across various focus areas. She previously contributed to a youth employability programme, gaining experience in training and corporate linkages.

Priyanka holds a Master’s degree in Human Development and is passionate about creating meaningful, people-focused impact through development initiatives. Outside of work, she enjoys reading and exploring new places through travel.
Puja Roongta
PUJA ROONGTA
Assistant Vice President - Grant Management
PUJA ROONGTA

Assistant Vice President - Grant Management
Puja leads the process of managing grants, ensuring effective implementation, monitoring, and reporting. She works closely with both funders and implementation partners, aligning donor expectations with program outcomes while ensuring accountability, transparency, and impact. Puja holds an MSc in Economics and an MBA in Finance. With a strong foundation in economics and finance, Puja brings strategic insight and rigour to the management of large-scale development programmes.

Outside of work, she enjoys travelling and connecting with new people and cultures.
Rahul Koyalkar
RAHUL KOYALKAR
Deputy Manager - Finance
RAHUL KOYALKAR

Deputy Manager - Finance
Rahul helps ensure smooth financial operations across the organisation’s many projects. His work involves budgeting, accounting, fund disbursals, compliance, and reporting, contributing to the financial transparency and accountability.

Rahul holds a Bachelor's degree in Management Studies with a specialisation in Finance from Siddharth College of Commerce & Economics. During his graduation, he interned with The Akanksha Foundation’s Finance team, where he discovered his interest in applying financial skills to support social impact. Outside of work, Rahul enjoys music and unwinding with his favourite Netflix shows.
Rahul Patil
RAHUL PATIL
Coordinator - Communications
RAHUL PATIL

Coordinator - Communications
At United Way Mumbai, Rahul supports the Communications team in creating visual and digital content that brings the organisation’s work to life. He works across branding, design, illustration, and animation. His work spans social media creatives, donor reports, campaign branding, and event collateral.

Rahul holds a Bachelor's degree in Management Studies and has completed a 3-year course in Graphic and Visual Effects from Arena Animation. With a strong foundation in visual storytelling, his strengths lie in typography, layout design, and motion graphics. Outside of work, Rahul is a keen photographer and sketch artist, always exploring new ways to express creativity.
Rakesh Gamare
RAKESH GAMARE
Assistant Manager - Financial Security
RAKESH GAMARE

Assistant Manager - Financial Security
Rakesh supports programmes that focus on building income resilience and improving access to livelihoods for vulnerable and underserved communities. His work includes coordinating skilling initiatives, supporting women's financial empowerment, and helping individuals and families access government welfare schemes and entitlements.

With a Master’s in Social Work from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Rakesh brings a strong foundation in working with children and families. His prior experience spans working with tribal children on education, supporting community-based health initiatives, and engaging with issues such as child rights, rural poverty, and urban inequality.
Rhea Keny
RHEA KENY
Deputy Manager - Education
RHEA KENY

Deputy Manager - Education
Rhea supports the planning, coordination, and implementation of programs focused on early childhood care and education, foundational learning, and school strengthening. Her work includes engaging with anganwadi workers, teachers, and local communities to improve learning environments and outcomes for children.

She holds a Master’s in Public Policy from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and enjoys spending time with animals, being amidst mountains and nature, and exploring art.
Ritika Pednekar
RITIKA PEDNEKAR
Coordinator - Finance
RITIKA PEDNEKAR

Coordinator - Finance
Ritika supports the Finance team in managing accounts payables and receivables, processing donations and grants, reconciling accounts, and ensuring timely disbursement of funds to stakeholders. She also supports internal audits, financial documentation, and compliance processes critical to UWM’s operations across multiple programmes and partnerships.

Prior to this, Ritika worked as an Accounts Deputy Manager at Child Help Foundation, where she was responsible for overseeing financial operations related to healthcare and education-focused interventions. With a strong foundation in nonprofit finance, she brings both accuracy and accountability to her role.
Riya Lobo
RIYA LOBO
Executive - Education
RIYA LOBO

Executive - Education
Riya supports education initiatives aimed at bridging learning gaps and creating better opportunities for children from underserved communities. She brings with her a strong foundation in social work and a commitment to addressing educational inequities on the ground.

Before joining UWM, Riya worked with Udayan Care, where she led programmes that focused on improving access to education for girls in marginalised communities. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Nirmala Niketan and is deeply driven by a belief in the power of education as a tool for social change. Outside of work, Riya enjoys travelling, adventure sports, hiking, and participating in social events.
Rohit Dalvi
ROHIT DALVI
Executive - Community Resiliency
ROHIT DALVI

Executive - Community Resiliency
Rohit supports United Way Mumbai’s road safety and community resiliency programmes. He works closely on initiatives that promote responsible road behaviour and enhance public safety, drawing on his technical expertise and passion for making roads safer.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Automobile Engineering from Pillai College of Engineering, Mumbai. Prior to UWM, he worked for nearly three years in the road safety department at Green Earth Translogistics Pvt. Ltd., where he developed a strong interest in contributing to community welfare. A self-motivated individual, Rohit enjoys gymming, reading, going on long motorcycle rides, and has recently taken up trekking as a hobby.
Sahej Mantri
SAHEJ MANTRI
Assistant Vice President - Campaigns & Communications
SAHEJ MANTRI

Assistant Vice President - Campaigns & Communications
A strategic leader in philanthropy and social impact, Sahej Mantri specializes in leveraging storytelling, data, and technology to drive large-scale change. At United Way Mumbai, he heads the Campaigns and Communications department, managing the Tata Mumbai Marathon, Asia’s largest philanthropic sporting event. He has led the platform’s digital transformation, enhancing engagement through gamification and data-driven insights. Previously, Sahej founded Agasti, a social enterprise improving urban sanitation, building 30+ public toilets for municipal bodies and Indian Railways. His work received national recognition for innovation and sustainability. He has also worked with Gram Vikas in Odisha and Indochina Research in Cambodia. Sahej holds an MBA from the Indian School of Business and a Bachelor’s in Mass Media from Mumbai University.

Saloni Kumawat
SALONI KUMAWAT
Coordinator – Climate Action
SALONI KUMAWAT

Coordinator – Climate Action
Saloni supports the implementation of environment-related interventions, particularly those focused on solid waste management and sustainability.

Prior to this, she worked at Project Mumbai, where she led initiatives on environmental awareness, plastic waste management, and education. Her work included implementing a Zero Waste School Program aimed at engaging children in waste segregation and recycling. An architect and urban planner by training, Saloni brings a deep-rooted interest in sustainability.
Sanaa Shaikh
SANAA SHAIKH
Chief Operating Officer
SANAA SHAIKH

Chief Operating Officer
Sanaa joined United Way of Mumbai in 2015. She has a postgraduate degree in Human Development, a diploma in Youth Development Work, and a certificate in Guidance and Counselling. At United Way Mumbai, she leads Operations, HR, Admin, Communications, CSR advisory, Investor Relations, Resource Mobilization, and Community Relations.

Prior to joining United Way, Sanaa was the Chief Operating Officer of a Mumbai based non-profit organization working with children from marginalized communities. She has led a team of 200 staff and worked across a wide range of functions including Donor Relations, HR, Education, and Community Work. She has designed and led projects in school adoption, public-private partnership, remedial education, counseling, early childhood education, and teacher training. Her experience includes grassroots level work in municipal schools of Mumbai and tribal communities in Maharashtra. She has a keen interest in child rights and has co-authored a book on Understanding Children’s Rights through the lens of the UN Convention on Rights of the Child.
Sancho Fernandes
SANCHO FERNANDES
Manager - Grant Management
SANCHO FERNANDES

Manager - Grant Management
Sancho manages donor-funded programmes at United Way Mumbai, overseeing implementation, compliance, and impact reporting across key thematic areas. With five years of experience in community-based initiatives, he is driven by a commitment to youth empowerment and social change.

Prior to this, he worked with HOPE Foundation as a Program Manager, leading health and education initiatives. Sancho holds a postgraduate degree from Mumbai. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and occasionally playing football.
Sandeep Gaikwad
SANDEEP GAIKWAD
Assistant Manager – Community Resiliency
SANDEEP GAIKWAD

Assistant Manager – Community Resiliency
Sandeep supports programmes that build safer, more resilient communities through road safety education, awareness and training, and disaster preparedness. He brings experience from varied organisations where he worked on livelihoods, education, health, and safety initiatives.

Sandeep holds a post-graduation in Social Sciences from Pune University. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and children.
Sandesh Pawar
SANDESH PAWAR
Manager - Financial Security
SANDESH PAWAR

Manager - Financial Security
Sandesh leads initiatives under United Way Mumbai’s Financial Security vertical, working to equip communities with skills, resources, and opportunities to build sustainable livelihoods. He brings over 12 years of experience in training and development, with a strong focus on skilling and employability.

A Commerce graduate with an MBA in Human Resources, Sandesh has previously worked with organisations such as Future Sharp Skills Ltd., Yuva Parivartan, CAP Foundation, and NIS Sparta. In his free time, he enjoys reading, travelling, and exploring new ideas.
SARAH KHOKHAWALA
SARAH KHOKHAWALA
Assistant Manager – Grant Management
SARAH KHOKHAWALA

Assistant Manager – Grant Management
Sarah supports and strengthens grant processes across diverse thematic areas. She brings over four years of experience in the social impact space, having worked on malnutrition programmes, vocational training, livelihoods initiatives, and high-value CSR partnerships.

Sarah holds a Master’s degree in Food Science and Nutrition. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, and exploring creative projects.
Sarah Thomas
SARAH THOMAS
Senior Manager - Investor Relations
SARAH THOMAS

Senior Manager - Investor Relations
Sarah is part of the Investor Relations teams that plays a key role in building and nurturing relationships with key donors, institutional funders, and philanthropic partners. She works closely with them to align their giving priorities with UWM’s programmes, helping funders see the real-world impact of their contributions and shaping long-term partnerships.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master’s in Public Policy from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Before joining UWM, she worked with a grassroots organisation focused on education and was part of the fundraising and communications team.
Sayali Mule
SAYALI MULE
Coordinator - Workplace Campaigns
SAYALI MULE

Coordinator - Workplace Campaigns
Sayali is part of the Workplace Campaigns team at United Way Mumbai, where she helps design and implement employee giving initiatives in collaboration with corporate partners.

She holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the College of Social Work, Nirmala Niketan. Before joining UWM, she worked in the development sector in roles that focused on youth mentorship and community engagement. In her free time, Sayali enjoys reading and travelling.
Shailesh Wagle
SHAILESH WAGLE
Assistant Vice President - Health
SHAILESH WAGLE

Assistant Vice President - Health
Dr. Shailesh joined United Way of Mumbai in July 2015. As the AVP, he leads initiatives focused on maternal and child health, infectious disease prevention, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and nutrition, ensuring sustainable, evidence-based interventions. He plays a key role in program strategy, partnerships, and impact assessment, working closely with stakeholders to strengthen community health systems.

He holds a degree in Ayurveda, a master’s in public health from Manipal University specializing in environmental and occupational health, and a Certificate in Global Health from Maastricht University, Netherlands. His expertise lies in public health, environmental health, and climate change. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and photography.
Shatabdi Ghosh
SHATABDI GHOSH
Executive - Health
SHATABDI GHOSH

Executive - Health
Shatabdi supports programmes focused on child and maternal health. She is involved in field implementation, research, and documentation, and brings a strong public health lens to her work on the ground.

She holds a Master’s in Social Work (Public Health) from TISS, Mumbai, and has previously interned with organisations such as SNEHA, Jan Swasthya Sahyog, and the CSR department at SAIL. Originally from Durgapur, West Bengal, Shatabdi is also a trained classical singer who enjoys music and films in her free time.
Shishira Kurkure
SHISHIRA KURKURE
Executive - Health
SHISHIRA KURKURE

Executive - Health
Dr Shishira supports stakeholder engagement, monitoring and evaluation, due diligence, and capacity building for health project implementation. She is closely involved in initiatives focused on maternal and child health.

A trained dentist, she previously worked as a Dental Associate, independently treating patients across age groups. She holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from YMT Dental College, Navi Mumbai, and a Master’s in Public Health with a specialization in Epidemiology from Manipal University. She also holds a certification in Global Health from Maastricht University, Netherlands.
Shital Sawant
SHITAL SAWANT
Assistant Manager - Financial Security
SHITAL SAWANT

Assistant Manager - Financial Security
Shital supports the implementation of livelihood initiatives, with a focus on promoting financial inclusion and building resilient community institutions. Her work involves engaging with grassroots groups, facilitating access to credit, and strengthening women-led collectives.

She brings over seven years of experience from MAVIM (Mahila Arthik Vikas Mahamandal), where she worked extensively on Self Help Group formation and community mobilisation. Shital holds a Master’s degree from Tata Institute of Social Sciences and a postgraduate qualification from the University of Mumbai.
Shravani Patil
SHRAVANI PATIL
Coordinator - Community Resiliency
SHRAVANI PATIL

Coordinator - Community Resiliency
Shravani supports the planning and implementation of road safety programs in urban and rural communities. Her role involves on-ground coordination, stakeholder engagement, and driving community awareness around safer mobility practices.

Prior to this, she worked with United Way Mumbai as a communications consultant, where she led content and outreach strategies across projects. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Relations and Communications from Mumbai University. Outside work, Shravani is a trained classical dancer and a visual artist.
Shreya Parashar
SHREYA PARASHAR
Assistant Manager – Health
SHREYA PARASHAR

Assistant Manager – Health
Shreya supports the planning and implementation of health-related interventions at United Way Mumbai, with a focus on improving child health outcomes. She brings experience in programme implementation, community outreach, and research, with a particular interest in maternal and child health.

She holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from the Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar.
Simone Morarka
SIMONE MORARKA
Coordinator – Impact Assessment
SIMONE MORARKA

Coordinator – Impact Assessment
Part of the Impact Assessment team at United Way Mumbai, Simone supports research, monitoring, and evaluation efforts, contributing to evidence-based learning and strengthening our programmes' impact across verticals. She brings experience from Arpan, where she worked on research and M&E functions, and holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Simone is keen to deepen her understanding of social impact and the role of evidence in driving meaningful change.

Outside of work, she enjoys reading and watching thrillers.
Simran D
SIMRAN D'SILVA
Executive - Education
SIMRAN D'SILVA

Executive - Education
Simran supports the design and implementation of education-focused programs at United Way Mumbai. With a background in public policy, she brings a research-driven approach to identifying learning gaps and improving program delivery.

Prior to joining UWM, she worked at Magic Bus India Foundation, contributing to sectoral research for adolescent and livelihood programs and supporting the corporate partnerships team. She has also worked on market research and analysis projects during her internship with the Magic Bus Global Team. Outside of work, Simran enjoys cycling, trekking, baking, and watching web series.
Smriti Sangam
SMRITI SANGAM
Deputy Manager – Grant Management
SMRITI SANGAM

Deputy Manager – Grant Management
Smriti is part of the Grant Management team at United Way Mumbai, supporting grant partnerships and project execution across programmes. She brings experience from Reliance Foundation and Samhita, where she worked on CSR, education, and corporate-led impact projects. Smriti holds degrees in Psychology (St. Xavier’s College) and Development Studies (TISS Hyderabad).

Outside work, she enjoys dance, world cinema, and music.
Sneha Suryawanshi
SNEHA SURYAWANSHI
Coordinator - Investor Relations
SNEHA SURYAWANSHI

Coordinator - Investor Relations
As part of the Investor Relations team at United Way Mumbai, Sneha supports partnership development and stakeholder engagement efforts. She brings experience from her time at ConnectFor, where she worked on volunteering partnerships and collaborations.

Sneha holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the College of Social Work, Nirmala Niketan, Mumbai, and also has a background in advertising. As a student social worker, she interned with KEM Hospital and Manav Foundation, working closely with patients and caregivers. She is passionate about public health, caregiver support, and strategic collaborations in the development sector, and is keen to bridge the gap between policy and community realities.
SUBRAT NAYAK
SUBRAT NAYAK
Manager – Grant Management
SUBRAT NAYAK

Manager – Grant Management
Subrat oversees initiatives that strengthen UWM's programme funding and impact. He brings over 16 years of experience in the development sector, with expertise in education and livelihoods.

He holds a Postgraduate degree in Social Work and diplomas in Disaster Management and Christian Theology. Outside of work, Subrat enjoys quiet reflection and engaging conversations that inspire new perspectives.
Sudin Patyane
SUDIN PATYANE
Coordinator - Administration
SUDIN PATYANE

Coordinator - Administration
Sudin supports the day-to-day administrative functions at United Way Mumbai, ensuring smooth operations across departments. With over two decades of professional experience across sectors, he brings strong organisational skills, a people-centric approach, and a knack for problem-solving to his role.

He enjoys connecting with people, and outside of work, he’s passionate about cricket and exploring new cuisines.
Sujit Patil
SUJIT PATIL
Executive - Community Resiliency
SUJIT PATIL

Executive - Community Resiliency
Sujit works on strengthening road safety awareness and practices across communities. He conducts trainings at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), colleges, and NGOs, engaging with youth, motorists, and the general public. He also works with heavy vehicle drivers, conducting journey risk assessments and providing training to improve their safety on the road.

He holds a degree in Automobile Engineering from Mumbai University and a certification in Industrial Safety from the Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education. A motorcycle enthusiast, Sujit blends his professional expertise with his personal passion to promote safer roads.
Sukanya Iyer
SUKANYA IYER
Coordinator – Climate Action
SUKANYA IYER

Coordinator – Climate Action
Sukanya works on planning and implementing climate action initiatives, supporting sustainability-focused programmes and on-ground interventions. She brings experience from her previous role as Senior Program Lead at Garbage Free India, where she worked on waste management, environmental learning, and sustainable menstrual health and hygiene initiatives. Sukanya holds a degree in Microbiology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Research.

Outside of work, she enjoys music and singing, live stand-up comedy, Japanese anime, and travelling.
Sumathi Shriram
SUMATHI SHRIRAM
Assistant Vice President - Finance
SUMATHI SHRIRAM

Assistant Vice President - Finance
Sumathi has been working with UWM since 2018. Currently, she heads the finance department, ensuring statutory compliances, adherence to finance policy, facilitating various audit functions and timely statutory filings. She is an expert on legal compliance and laws impacting NGOs in India as per FCRA, Maharashtra Public Trust Act and Income Tax. Before joining UWM, Sumathi worked in grant funds management, statutory compliance, filings under various legal statutes impacting NGOs, preparing board reports, and managing salary and payroll.

Sumathi enjoys working on statutory compliances, audits, governance and treasury management. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and an LLB (Gen).
Supriya Yadav
SUPRIYA YADAV
Executive – Workplace Campaigns
SUPRIYA YADAV

Executive – Workplace Campaigns
Supriya supports employee engagement and giving initiatives across corporate partners. She also brings experience from working with diverse communities including homeless children with Junoon Foundation, youth from underserved backgrounds with Bright Future India, farmers with YMC, and female sex workers with Kshamata.

Supriya holds a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and a Master’s in Social Work.
Suresh Mohite
SURESH MOHITE
Office Assistant
SURESH MOHITE

Office Assistant
A valued member of the United Way Mumbai team for over 11 years, Suresh plays a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations through his dependable backend support. His dedication and familiarity with the organisation’s workings make him an integral part of the team.

Outside of work, Suresh is a passionate cricket enthusiast and enjoys following matches whenever he gets the chance.
Swanand Gawde
SWANAND GAWDE
Assistant Manager - Climate Action
SWANAND GAWDE

Assistant Manager - Climate Action
As part of the Climate Action team, Swanand works on designing and implementing programmes that build environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices in communities. With a Master’s in Environmental Sciences and a Bachelor’s in Zoology, he brings both academic rigour and field experience to the role.

Prior to UWM, Swanand was with the World Wide Fund for Nature India, where he worked in the Environment Education Division, engaging learners of all age groups. Outside of work, he’s a wildlife enthusiast who enjoys exploring forests across India, capturing nature through his lens, and winding down with books and films.
Tejashwani
TEJASHWANI
Deputy Manager - Community Resiliency
TEJASHWANI

Deputy Manager - Community Resiliency
Tejashwani aka TJ, leads road safety initiatives that focus on behaviour change, inclusion, and long-term impact. She brings experience from not-for-profits like Development Alternatives, Pragya, and Manas Foundation, where she worked across gender, mental health, and community development.

A trained child psychologist, TJ has spent over four years working with children and communities. Her academic background in psychology, along with her interest in subaltern histories and global queer movements, shape her inclusive approach to building resilient and safer communities.
Vikram Singh
VIKRAM SINGH
Deputy Manager – Campaigns
VIKRAM SINGH

Deputy Manager – Campaigns
As part of the Campaigns team at UWM, Vikram helps anchor the organisation’s role as the Philanthropy Partner to the Tata Mumbai Marathon. He is responsible for driving key campaigns, strengthening fundraiser and NGO engagement, and expanding the event’s reach as a platform for social impact.

With over 15 years of experience across the hospitality, retail, and development sectors, Vikram brings a sharp eye for planning and execution. An MBA graduate from the University of Wolverhampton, UK, he made the shift from the corporate sector to development, fuelled by a passion for animal welfare and humanitarian causes.
Yashovardhan Tiwary
YASHOVARDHAN TIWARY
Executive – Climate Action
YASHOVARDHAN TIWARY

Executive – Climate Action
Yashovardhan is part of the Climate Action team at United Way Mumbai, supporting the implementation of environment-related interventions and leading capacity-building efforts within communities.

He has previously interned with Jaipur Rugs Foundation as a Social Development Intern, with Gram Vikas in Odisha on groundwater impact assessment, and with Tata Trusts on programme evaluation. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Master's in Water Policy and Governance, with a strong interest in the intersection of development, behaviour change, and water governance.
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CONTACT
Office Address:
United Way Mumbai,
1201, Suvidha Square
Corner of S V Road & Caeser Road Amboli, Andheri West
Mumbai 400 058.
Tel: +91 22 69523100
Email:
contact@unitedwaymumbai.org


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