Dr. Rajeshree Jaybhaye is a distinguished educationist, researcher, social reformer, and thought leader with over three decades of experience in education, research, and community development. As the Founder and President of Astitva Foundation, she leads initiatives aimed at empowering women, youth, and rural communities through education, skill development, and inclusive social innovation.
An accomplished academic, Dr. Jaybhaye serves as a Professor at Savitribai Phule Pune University and is a member of its Academic Council. She is also associated with multiple universities and institutions in advisory, academic, and research capacities, contributing to curriculum development, research committees, examination boards, and quality assurance processes. Her work has significantly influenced teacher education, academic governance, and research-led learning practices.
At Astitva Foundation, Dr. Jaybhaye integrates scholarly insight with grassroots realities to design sustainable, impact-oriented programmes in education, women’s empowerment, youth development, and rural advancement. Her leadership reflects a holistic and collaborative approach to social change, inspiring institutions, policymakers, and communities to build a more equitable, resilient, and empowered society.
Mr. Anaveer Nanna is a sports management professional with a Master’s degree in Sports Management from IISM, Mumbai University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT College of Engineering, Savitribai Phule Pune University. He brings a strong blend of technical expertise, operational leadership, and event management experience.
He currently serves as Assistant Games Manager at Willingdon Sports Club, Mumbai, where he manages sports operations, facilities, budgeting, and national and international events. His professional journey also includes leadership roles in manufacturing and logistics, as well as research and coordination for major sporting events and marathons.
As Vice-Chairperson of Astitva Foundation, Mr. Nanna contributes strategic insight, organizational skills, and a deep commitment to social development. He actively supports the Foundation’s initiatives in community empowerment, youth development, and sustainable growth, aligning professional excellence with social impact.
Sonal Mundhe is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in global organizations, specializing in learning and development, leadership training, emotional intelligence coaching, and organizational development & change management. She has a proven track record of designing and delivering transformative programs that build high-performing teams, enhance leadership effectiveness, and foster inclusive workplace cultures.
Sonal holds two MBAs—in Computer Management and Human Resources—and is a German language expert. She also serves as a Resource Person on the Board of Extra-Mural Studies at Savitribai Phule Pune University, contributing to higher education and knowledge sharing. She is certified by CPD, SHRM, and HRCI, and is a trained POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Train the Trainer.
Known for her strategic mindset, empathy, and commitment to personal and professional growth, Sonal empowers individuals to develop self-awareness, confidence, resilience, and purpose. Her work spans leadership development, gender sensitization, unconscious bias mitigation, and emotional intelligence, enabling people to thrive in diverse and dynamic environments.
At Astitva Foundation, Sonal leverages her expertise and passion to drive initiatives in education, skill development, women empowerment, child welfare, healthcare support, and community development. Through her leadership, she helps individuals discover their identity, realize their potential, and lead meaningful lives, fully embodying the foundation’s mission: to empower lives, foster self-awareness, promote equality, and create lasting positive change in communities
Pooja Mundhe is an Architect with a specialization in Building Energy Performance from CEPT University, Ahmedabad. She currently serves as a Program Manager in Sustainability Education, promoting sustainable practices in the built environment. She has worked as an Academic Associate at CEPT, Building Energy Analyst, and contributed to IGBC and LEED-certified projects. Pooja holds credentials including EDGE Expert, LEED AP BD+C, IGBC AP, GRIHA CP, and GEM CP, and has published research in international journals.
Beyond her professional work, Pooja is deeply committed to social impact as the Treasurer of Astitva Foundation. She oversees financial management and strategic planning while actively driving initiatives in education, skill development, women’s empowerment, and community welfare. Pooja plays a key role in organizing programs that foster self-confidence, sustainability awareness, and holistic development for underprivileged and marginalized communities. She is also involved in mentorship programs for youth, health and hygiene awareness drives, community art and cultural initiatives, environmental conservation campaigns, and skill-building workshops aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods. Her dedication ensures that Astitva Foundation’s outreach is inclusive, impactful, and transformative for all communities it serves.
Neeraj Nijampurkar, an architecture graduate with specialization in interior design from the University of Pune, furthered his expertise with a Master’s in Environmental Design (M.Arch.) from the University of Nottingham, England. He gained experience with renowned architectural firms and also served as an Assistant Professor for 3.5 years, sharing his knowledge and mentoring the next generation of architects. He now leads his independent practice, creating work that is highly interdisciplinary, bridging architecture, interior design, building science, and sustainable design, while embracing contemporary architectural trends and philosophies.
Beyond his professional practice, Neeraj is deeply committed to social development and community well-being. He actively participates in community initiatives, awareness programs, and outreach activities, striving to make a meaningful impact. As a dedicated member of Astitva Foundation, he contributes his knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm to empower individuals, foster self-awareness, and support programs that promote education, health, and sustainable growth.
Adv. Aviraj Deshmukh serves as the Legal Advisor for Astitva Foundation, where he brings his expertise in law and justice to support the organization’s mission of empowering individuals and promoting social equity.
With a deep commitment to human rights and access to justice, Adv. Deshmukh provides legal guidance on matters related to women’s rights, child welfare, education, and community development. He plays a key role in designing and implementing legal awareness programs, offering pro bono consultation, and ensuring that the Foundation’s initiatives are carried out within ethical and legal frameworks.
Driven by compassion and professionalism, he believes in using the law as a tool for social change and strives to make legal support accessible to the underprivileged sections of society.
CA Parag Ambare is a qualified Chartered Accountant with a deep commitment to social upliftment and community development. As the Treasurer and Financial Advisor of Astitva Foundation, he plays a vital role in ensuring financial transparency, sustainability, and strategic growth of the organization.
With over a decade of professional experience in finance, taxation, and corporate advisory, Parag brings strong analytical insight and ethical leadership to every initiative he undertakes. His expertise in managing resources efficiently enables the Foundation to maximize its impact and reach more beneficiaries effectively.
Driven by a belief that financial discipline and compassion must go hand in hand, Parag actively contributes to programs focused on education, livelihood development, and social welfare. He is passionate about using his professional knowledge to create opportunities and empower underprivileged communities to build a better future.
Parag’s association with Astitva Foundation reflects his vision of giving back to society and nurturing a culture of accountability, transparency, and positive change.
