On the 21st of August 2022, a resplendent chapter in the realm of mental health advocacy began as the India International Centre played host to the grand launch of Ashhwika Foundation. This Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), founded with a profound commitment to the emotional and mental well-being of children and survivors of domestic abuse, set the stage for a transformative journey towards healing and resilience.
The distinguished guest list featured notable women from diverse fields, reflecting the intersectionality of the issues addressed by Ashhwika Foundation. Shovana Narayan, the renowned Indian Kathak Dancer, brought a touch of grace to the event. Neelam Pratap Rudy, an Aircraft Instructor, symbolized the soaring aspirations of the foundation. Alka Kapur, Principal of Morden Public School, exemplified the crucial role education plays in nurturing emotional well-being. Dr. Navnit Haror, Founder & Director of Derma Miracle Skin & Hair Transplant Clinic, added a medical perspective to the conversation.
The launch event, curated with meticulous attention, was graced by esteemed personalities including Anil Kumar Soni, Director of S Sony Pvt & Ltb, Madhu Soni, Poonam Puri, Zaid Faizee Ahmad, Rajesh Kiara, Shailja Sachdeva, Payal Grover, Devna, Anandmai Kumar, and Yuthika Kapoor. The diverse backgrounds of the attendees underscored the universal relevance of mental health advocacy and the need for collective action.
Shama Soni, the visionary Founder-Director of Ashhwika Foundation, and Ashhwika Soni, the Co-Founder, took center stage, sharing their impassioned journey from recognizing the challenges in mental health to the inception of the foundation. Their speeches resonated with authenticity, embodying the foundation’s mission to create a compassionate and supportive environment for those facing emotional and mental health challenges.
The unveiling of Ashhwika Foundation marked a symbolic gesture of laying the foundation for a safe space where emotional well-being is prioritized and stigma is dismantled. The logo, representing interconnectedness and growth, was unveiled amidst an atmosphere of hope and anticipation for the positive impact the foundation aims to create.
The event was more than a launch; it was a platform for open dialogue and exchange of ideas. The speeches were followed by an engaging Q&A session, allowing the audience to actively participate and contribute to the discourse on mental health. The diverse perspectives shared enriched the collective understanding of the challenges and potential solutions in the field.
As a beacon of hope, the launch also featured a poignant moment of silence to honor those who have struggled with mental health challenges and to underscore the urgency of the foundation’s mission. This moment served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to create a society that prioritizes emotional well-being.
