Project Asmi
An Initiative by Dr. Kalpana Vyawahare Foundation
Our story
Welcome to Dr. Kalpana Vyawahare Foundation, where passion meets purpose and dreams transform into reality. At the heart of our endeavours lies 'Project Asmi', an initiative and a specially crafted program, that stands as a testament to our commitment to the psychological and emotional and psychological well-being of socially and economically weaker sections of school children.
Nurturing a new generation of students
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Project Asmi is more than just an initiative; it's a vision for nurturing a new generation of students who embody qualities such as holistic health, emotional awareness, confidence, empathy, creativity, self-sufficiency, and patriotism. Conceived in 2019 with a 10-year vision spanning students from 1st to 10th standard, Project Asmi dreams of touching the lives of every child in our nation.
Our journey
In its inaugural year, 2019-20, the program, before the pandemic, reached out to over 1000 first-standard students. Undeterred by the challenges posed by the pandemic in 2020-21, the program seamlessly transitioned online, catering to the specific demands of five Municipal Corporation schools. Today, with unwavering dedication, the program thrives, engaging 1st,2nd,3rd and 4th standard students through the expertise of 100+ facilitators, impacting the lives of 16000+ students.
Two-way learning
Designed by psychologists, Project Asmi employs innovative approaches such as self-learning and two-way learning processes. It is learning for students as well as for facilitators, where there is an energy exchange of innocence and pure energy. It serves as a conduit for immense joy and provides a safe space for students to express their emotions. Rooted in values that connect learners back to nature, creativity, and a sense of patriotism, the program is instrumental in developing holistic personalities.
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Beyond classrooms
Project Asmi unfolds in two distinct parts: within schools and through an Internship Program tailored for special impact. Our commitment extends beyond the classroom, fostering an environment where every child can thrive and discover their potential. Join us on this transformative journey, where education transcends boundaries, and each student emerges as a beacon of positivity and progress.
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Vision
Transforming dreams into resilient realities, Project Asmi envisions a future where every child thrives emotionally and psychologically, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Mission
Empowering the next generation, Project Asmi is dedicated to nurturing holistic development through innovative programs and initiatives, fostering empathy, creativity, and self-sufficiency in socially and economically disadvantaged children.
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What do we do?
In response to ever-changing needs, Project Asmi adapts, persists, and evolves. From online initiatives like Maitrasetu, Asmi Gammat Katta and Asmi Sanvad to immersive experiences like Asmi Dosticha Katta, we continue to inspire, uplift, and connect young hearts.
Why do we do it?
Now, more than ever, children need support and guidance to navigate a rapidly changing world. Project Asmi stands as a guiding light, providing tools and resources for emotional intelligence and development, ensuring every child has the opportunity to flourish.
Milestones
उगम
Launched Project Asmi, reaching 35 schools and impacting the lives of 1st standard students.
Adapted to the challenges of the pandemic by launching online theme schools, ensuring continuity in education and engagement.
Introduced Asmi Gammat Katta YouTube channel, expanding our reach and providing additional resources for student development.
Expanded our student base to 2000 students spanning 1st and 2nd standards, deepening our impact on young minds.
Achieved a milestone of engaging over 5000 students across 1st to 4th standards, while also launching an internship program with 50 students, further enhancing our commitment to holistic education.
Founders
Vaishali Vyawahare
Deshpande
Mrs. Vaishali Desande is an inspiring figure with a distinctive combination of skills. As a former journalist and respected anchor on the Akashvani channel, she possesses extensive experience in communication and storytelling. Her passion for holistic well-being is evident through her mastery of hypnotherapy, showcasing her dedication to empowering individuals and nurturing their souls. With her dynamic leadership, Mrs. Deshpande fuels innovation, propelling our foundation toward significant impact and transformation.
Founder - Director
Satish Deshpande
Mr. Satish Deshpande is the cornerstone of our foundation, bringing over 30 years of extensive and varied experience across laboratory work, technical services, and sales in both national and multinational organizations. He holds a postgraduate degree in Chemical Technology from VJTI Mumbai, a postgraduate diploma in Business Administration from Symbiosis, and has completed an executive management program at the prestigious IIM Ahmedabad. As a dynamic entrepreneur, Mr. Deshpande is the founder and CEO of DVR Coatings and DVR Enterprises, where he leads innovation in the manufacturing of specialty industrial paints and coatings. His seasoned leadership and entrepreneurial spirit continue to drive the foundation’s mission forward with dedication and expertise.
Founder Director
Content Team
Shubhada katdare
Shubhada Katdare is an accomplished Trainer at Project ASMI, where she skilfully applies her diverse expertise in module design and training for children’s emotional development. With a B. Com from Mumbai University and a Post Graduate Diploma in Pre-Primary Teacher Training, Shubhada brings a unique blend of educational and practical insights to her work. She transitioned from a successful banking career with Bank of India to founding and directing Kidsoorja, driven by her deep passion for child counseling and emotional wellness. Shubhada further strengthened her credentials with a Post Graduate Certificate in Counseling Psychology from Fergusson College, Pune, and refined her counseling skills during her tenure at Lend a Hand India. At Project ASMI, she excels in integrating counseling psychology and educational strategies, helping to empower children and create impactful learning modules focused on emotional literacy, wellness, and positive growth.
Vaishali Deshpande
Mrs. Vaishali Deshpande is a passionate leader with a rich background in communication and media. As a former journalist and anchor on the Akashvani channel, she brings deep expertise in storytelling and public engagement. Beyond her media career, Vaishali is a skilled hypnotherapist and P.G. Diploma in School Psychology dedicated to promoting holistic well-being and personal empowerment. Her inspiring leadership drives innovation and growth at Project Asmi, helping the foundation make a meaningful impact in building resilience and hope in the community. With her guidance, Project Asmi continues to transform lives and create lasting positive change.
Sandhya Zope
Sandhya Zope is a seasoned psychologist and counselor whose wide-ranging expertise enriches our team. She holds a Master’s degree in Marathi and Counseling, along with a Post Graduate Diploma in School Psychology and certification in Art-Based Therapy. Sandhya has contributed to developmental projects and provided education counseling and emotional support to individuals facing various challenges. Her compassionate, client-centered approach and extensive experience make her an essential part of our efforts to promote emotional well-being and psychological growth.
Varsha Dabholkar
Varsha Dabholkar is a dedicated psychological counselor with a PG diploma in Counselling Psychology and certification in REBT. She has a deep passion for mental health and has worked with organizations like IPH, Project Asmi, LAHI, and UDAAN Teen Club. Varsha specializes in creating engaging modules for student sessions that focus on self-awareness and social responsibility. She also leads workshops for professors on these important topics. With her empathetic approach and professional expertise, Varsha is committed to promoting holistic mental health and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling, balanced lives.
Team Asmi
Shilpa Kolhatkar
Meenal Vidwans
Mamta Mungilwar
Ketaki Wagle
Sonali Mahajan
Vaijayanti Deshpande
Shravani Mahekar
Arvind Kelkar
Jyoti Malpani
Vaidehi Joshi
Shilpa Kulkarni
Jayashri Joshi
Madhulika Bodhale
Arun Marathe
Shubha Chaulkar
Project coordinator psychologist
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Aditi Kulkarni
M.Sc. Clinical Psychology professional with over 4 years of experience working with special needs children and counseling adults. Her work focuses on creating compassionate, structured, and supportive environments that encourage emotional well-being, growth, and resilience.
She has experience working with children with diverse developmental and emotional needs through individualized interventions, creative engagement, and behavioral support strategies. In addition, she supports adults in navigating emotional challenges, stress, interpersonal concerns, and personal development.
Aditi believes in combining empathy with evidence-based psychological practices to provide meaningful and accessible mental health support tailored to individual needs.
Siddhi Rayrikar
mental health professional with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and is currently pursuing a Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Psychology. She has experience across clinical, community, and educational settings, with work focused on psychotherapy , psychoeducation, workshop facilitation, emotional well-being initiatives, and mental health awareness. Her interests lie in creating accessible, empathetic, and preventive mental health spaces for individuals and communities.
Advisory Committee
डॉ. प्रज्ञा कुलकर्णी
मानसशास्त्र क्षेत्रातील २५ वर्षांहून अधिक अनुभव असलेल्या शिक्षणतज्ज्ञ, संशोधक व मानसिक आरोग्य व्यावसायिक. एस. पी. महाविद्यालयात सहयोगी प्राध्यापक म्हणून पदवी व पदव्युत्तर स्तरावर अध्यापन. समुपदेशन, मानसोपचार, मानसशास्त्रीय मूल्यमापन व सकारात्मक मानसशास्त्र या क्षेत्रातील विशेष प्राविण्य. SWAYAM MOOC वरील Counseling Psychology आणि Psychological Disorders अभ्यासक्रमांच्या समन्वयक व अध्यापक. ४ आंतरराष्ट्रीय व १० राष्ट्रीय संशोधन प्रकाशने. एस. पी. महाविद्यालयाच्या समुपदेशन केंद्राच्या प्रमुख म्हणून विद्यार्थी मानसिक आरोग्यासाठी नाविन्यपूर्ण उपक्रमांची अंमलबजावणी. बालक व युवकांच्या मानसिक आरोग्य विषयांवरील प्रशिक्षक, व्याख्याते व लेखिका. भावनांच्या प्रांगणात या पुस्तकाच्या संपादक. विविध शाळा व स्वयंसेवी संस्थांसाठी संशोधन व मानसिक आरोग्य सल्लागार. तसेच एस. पी. महाविद्यालय, बाळाजी विद्यापीठ आणि जयवंत शिक्षण प्रसारक मंडळ यांच्या अभ्यास मंडळाच्या सदस्य म्हणून कार्यरत.
सीए. लक्ष्मीकांत मनियार
१४ वर्षांहून अधिक अनुभव असलेले प्रॅक्टिसिंग चार्टर्ड अकाउंटंट. व्यवसाय व वित्तीय सल्लागार सेवा, वैधानिक व अंतर्गत लेखापरीक्षण, करसल्ला, कॉर्पोरेट सल्ला, वित्तीय अनुपालन, प्रक्रिया सुधारणा आणि धोरणात्मक व्यवसाय मार्गदर्शन या क्षेत्रांत विशेष प्राविण्य. विविध उद्योगांतील उद्योजक व कॉर्पोरेट संस्थांना आर्थिक सुशासन, नियामक बाबी, व्यवसाय रचना व शाश्वत विकासासाठी मार्गदर्शन. एस. पी. महाविद्यालयात व्यवस्थापन विद्यार्थ्यांसाठी करशास्त्र विषयाचे अतिथी प्राध्यापक तसेच कर व वित्तीय विषयांवरील व्याख्याते. महेश्वरी विद्या प्रचारक मंडळाच्या (MVPM) वसतिगृह व्यवस्थापन समितीचे सदस्य, हिंदू इकॉनॉमिक फोरमचे सदस्य आणि श्रीकिसन व बसंताबाई बांग फाउंडेशनचे संचालक म्हणून सामाजिक व विकासात्मक उपक्रमांमध्ये सक्रिय सहभाग.
डॉ. मेघा देऊसकर
मानसशास्त्रज्ञ, समुपदेशक, शिक्षणतज्ज्ञ, संशोधक व लेखिका. फर्ग्युसन महाविद्यालयाच्या मानसशास्त्र विभागात दीर्घकाळ अध्यापनाचा अनुभव. पुणे विद्यापीठाच्या एम.ए. परीक्षेत सुवर्णपदक विजेत्या असून त्यांचा पीएच.डी. संशोधन विषय योगनिद्रा हा आहे. समुपदेशनात योगाधारित तंत्रांचा प्रभावी वापर तसेच योगनिद्रा विषयावरील कार्यशाळांचे नियमित आयोजन. ४१ संशोधन निबंध व २ पुस्तक प्रकरणे राष्ट्रीय व आंतरराष्ट्रीय प्रकाशनांत प्रकाशित. भारतीय समाज सेवा केंद्र, रायझिंग इंडिया रिसर्च फाउंडेशन, मुक्तांगण, प्रोजेक्ट अस्मी आणि कनेक्टिंग यांसह विविध संस्था व स्वयंसेवी संघटनांशी संलग्न. MIT ADT विद्यापीठ, रुईया महाविद्यालय (मुंबई), आबेदा इनामदार महाविद्यालय आदी संस्थांच्या अभ्यास मंडळाच्या सदस्य. फिनिक्स : एक आत्मशोध या राजहंस प्रकाशन प्रकाशित पुस्तकाच्या लेखिका.
डॉ. जयंत कुलकर्णी
M.Sc. M.Phil. Ph.D. (Bio-Physics)
30 वर्षे महाविद्यालयीन अध्यापनाचा अनुभव
3 वर्षे रामभाऊ म्हाळगी प्रबोधिनीत कार्यकारी संचालक म्हणून कार्यरत.
सध्या डी.इ.एस.पुणे विद्यापीठात शिक्षण विद्या-शाखा प्रमुख म्हणून काम पाहत आहेत.
सल्लागार समिती सदस्य : राष्ट्रीय महिला आयोग,भारत सरकार
Shri Vivek Sawant
Shri Vivek Sawant is the Chief Mentor of Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited (MKCL) and its former Managing Director for 18 years. Under his leadership, MKCL built one of the world’s largest digital literacy movements, empowering over 2 crore learners through the MS-CIT program across 5,000 learning centers.
Before MKCL, he played a key role at C-DAC in developing India’s first indigenous supercomputer, PARAM, and founded the Advanced Computing Training School (ACTS), shaping thousands of IT professionals. With decades of contribution in education, technology, governance, and social development, Shri Sawant continues to inspire through his visionary leadership and commitment to inclusive growth.
We are truly privileged to have his guidance and association as we continue building meaningful pathways for holistic child development, emotional well-being, and educational empowerment.