Team Prerana

Prerana owes its success to the tireless efforts of its team members. Here is a brief introduction to the people that make it all happen.

FOUNDERS

Dr. Pravin Patkar

Co-Founder & (Anti-Trafficking Center) Director
Dr. Patkar co-founded Prerana in the year 1986 and later founded Asia’s first Anti-Human Trafficking resource center in the year 1999 supported by the US Government. He has also served as an expert on several national and international agencies working in the anti-human trafficking sector. Aside from his commendable work in the anti-trafficking sector, Dr. Patkar is an academician and has been in the teaching profession for over forty years.

Priti Patkar

Co-Founder & Director
Priti Patkar fondly known as ‘Priti tai’ is the Founder and Executive Secretary of Prerana. Originating from Mumbai, she obtained her ‘Bachelors in Social Work’ from Nirmala Niketan College and her ‘Masters in Social Work’ from Tata Institute of Social Science. In the year 1986, she along with her husband Prof. (Dr) Pravin Patkar began their work along with Nirmala Niketan College of Social Work in Kamathipura, the then largest red-light area in Asia. It was there that Prerana was born – to break this cycle of exploitation and inter- generational trafficking.
FINANCE

Archana Shinde

Head of Accounts

Archana joined Prerana in 2012 as an Accountant. She has completed Master’s in Commerce from Shivaji University, Kolhapur. Archana is a soft-spoken and meticulous worker. She keeps all of us on our toes when it comes to getting our accounts approved.

NIGHT CARE CENTER PROGRAM | EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM

Reehanbaig Mirza

Sr. Project Coordinator
Reehanbaig is a certified Para Professional from Nirmala Niketan. He had joined Prerana as an Outreach Worker in 2008 and is currently the Outreach Coordinator for our Educational Support Program. From photography to communications to designing, he is known in the organization for his passion towards learning new things. Dancing is his favourite hobby and he devotes his leisure time towards it.

Sheetal Jadhav

Outreach Coordinator, Educational Support Program
Sheetal is a certified Para Professional from Nirmala Niketan and had joined Prerana as a Study Class Teacher. Eventually she was promoted to the position of an Outreach Worker and is currently the Outreach Coordinator. She loves engaging children in creative activities like painting, origami because it reminds her of her childhood. She is a cricket enthusiast who enjoys cycling and sports.

Vaishali Karande

Vaishali Karande
Vaishali completed her Bachelors in Arts from Yashwant Rao Chavan Open University and has been associated with Prerana since 1998. She had joined as a Study Class Teacher and is currently the Senior Project Coordinator of the Educational Support Program. She has an appreciable understanding of the community and works with them well. She cherishes reading books and singing when she is not working with the community.

Jyoti Sasane

Project Coordinator

Jyoti pursued her Masters in Social Work from S.N.D.T Women’s University and joined Prerana as a social worker. If there’s any difficulty during the issuance of any documentation in the communities we work with, she is an expert to resolve it. She loves listening to music, dancing and traveling to hill stations when she can spare time.

Mamta Halwai

Outreach Coordinator, Night Care Center
Mamta completed her Bachelors in Arts from Yashwant Rao Chavan Open University. She had joined Prerana as a Balwadi teacher and is currently the Outreach Coordinator of the Night Care Centre. She is enthusiastic about conducting innovative activities with children that helps them learn new things and at the same time influences their behaviour positively. She enjoys singing in her free time.

Neelima Pawar

Outreach Coordinator, Night Care Center
Neelima pursued her Masters in Social Work from Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth. She previously worked with the Community Committed Development Trust and currently works as the Outreach Coordinator in Prerana. She enjoys dancing to songs she enjoys and penning her thoughts down on paper in her leisure time.

Chhaya Jagtap

Project Manager (Superintendent), Night Care Center Child Protection Officer
Chhaya pursued her Masters in Social Work from Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth and had joined Prerana as the Superintendent at Naunihal. Within Prerana, she has worked in a diverse set of roles with unmatched determination and enthusiasm. From being an Outreach Worker to the Senior Project Coordinator, her journey in Prerana is inspiring. She enjoys reading novels and photography at every chance she gets.
SANMAAN

Ruby Quereshi

Outreach Coordinator

Ruby Quereshi is an Outreach Coordinator with Prerana’s Sanmaan program, where she works directly with children and families to ensure their rights are protected and their voices heard. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and has previously worked with the Myna Mahila Foundation and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Ruby is known for her proactive approach, often taking the lead on community initiatives. Within a short time at Prerana, she has built strong relationships with the community and shown a deep understanding of supporting and protecting children. When not working, Ruby enjoys traveling and discovering hidden places.

Rahima Malik

Outreach Coordinator, Sanmaan
Rahima Malik is the Outreach Coordinator for Prerana’s Sanmaan program. She plays a key role in community engagement, connecting with children and families on the ground and facilitating access to essential services. With a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Rahima brings hands-on experience from her previous work with Swasth India Foundation, SNEHA, and Pratham. Known for her strong communication skills and deep community connect, she also contributes actively to Prerana’s Aftercare Services and IPP initiatives. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and listening to music.

Deepali Mistry

Project Manager, Sanmaan
Deepali Mistry is the Project Manager for Prerana’s Sanmaan program, which works with children and families engaged in street begging, supporting them with protection, education, and access to government schemes. A social worker with over eight years of experience in human and child rights, Deepali holds a Master’s degree in Social Work (Public Health) from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS). At Prerana, she also serves as the Child Protection Focal Point and has been recognized by the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights for her significant contributions to the field. Outside of work, Deepali enjoys reading, dancing, and biking during Mumbai’s monsoons.
NAUNIHAL

Baby Khan

Supervisor, Naunihal
Baby completed her Bachelors in Psychology from Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University and has been working with Prerana as a non-residential Supervisor at Naunihal and a part-time teacher at the Night Care Center as well. She is passionate about helping the underprivileged and working towards their betterment. She enjoys cooking and traveling in her leisure time.

Sairabanu Ansari

Supervisor, Naunihal

Sairabanu completed her Bachelor’s in Commerce from Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University and has been associated with Prerana as a Supervisor. She works towards maintaining a peaceful environment in Naunihal and enjoys spreading positivity. When she is not busy thinking about the wellbeing of the girls, she indulges in cooking and traveling to new places.

Madhuri Shinde

Superintendent, Naunihal

Madhuri completed her Masters in Social Work from Indira Gandhi National Open University and has previously worked in a diverse set of roles at Kotak Securities and Bharat Matrimony. She is currently working as a Superintendent in Prerana’s Naunihal Home for Girls. She is known for her articulate communication skills and is always observant while she is working. She loves reading books on spirituality and health.

ANTI-TRAFFICKING CENTER

Kashina Kareem

Assistant Director
Kashina has been a part of Prerana since 2016. A fresh graduate of financial markets, she fought much judgment from the world when she decided to opt for the Gandhi fellowship. She started as one of the few members in Prerana’s Post Rescue Operations team and is now leading the team. She remains committed to strengthening the post-rescue operations model at Prerana. She enjoys a good cuppa tea, reading, meaningful conversations; and will enjoy these more than anything if her cats are in the picture!
AAGAAZ

Vikhyat Pathak

Communications Manager
Vikhyat is handling Communications as part of Prerana’s Aagaaz, driving storytelling, social media strategy, and public engagement to amplify the organization’s mission of protecting children from sexual exploitation and trafficking. With a background in commerce and theatre, Vikhyat transitioned into writing and communications, freelancing for over a year for online media and tech startups, before joining Medha, a non-profit working in the education-to- employment space. His professional journey is shaped by a deep interest in ethical storytelling and creating meaningful impact through communications. Outside of work, Vikhyat finds joy in theatre, writing, and exploring the intersection of creativity and social change.

Smruti Salunke

Social Worker
Smruti Salunke is a Social Worker in Prerana’s Aagaaz, currently part of the organization’s direct intervention programs supporting vulnerable children and communities. With over one and a half years of experience in the social sector, Smruti has worked on health-related projects, including the M-Diabetes initiative by FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) in partnership with Bata. Smruti is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work from IGNOU and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from YCMOU. Outside of work, Smruti enjoys bike and car riding, which reflects her adventurous spirit and love for exploring new paths—both on the road and in life.

Ashwini Kamble

District Coordinator, Ratnagiri
Our District Coordinator, Ratnagiri Ashwini Kamble holds MSW from S.N.D.T Women’s University Churchgate Campus, Mumbai, and B.A Economics from S.P Hegshetye college, Ratnagiri. She comes with rich work experience as Superintendent Of Matrumandir Gokul Girls Orphanage Home before joining Prerana.

Manasi Shinde

District Coordinator, Nashik
Our District Coordinator, Nashik Manasi Shinde is a passionate social worker with a Master’s degree from SPPU. With previous experience working with UNICEF and Doctors For You, Manasi brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to her role. In her free time, Manasi enjoys exploring the NASA website, learning about sea creatures, and playing the harmonium. She finds inspiration in nature and loves taking selfies with timestamps to capture happy memories.

Swapnil Surase

Senior District Coordinator
Swapnil Surase, Senior District Coordinator with a BA in Economics from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar University Aurangabad and an MSW from Nirmala Niketan. He brings valuable experience of working at the International Justice Mission (IJM) prior to Prerana. His free time is enjoyed by cooking and or staying informed with his favorite newspapers.

Asma Begum Ahmed Basha

Project Coordinator
Asma Begum Ahmed Basha is a dedicated Project Coordinator with a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from SIES and an MSW from SNDT Women’s University. With experience working at organizations like United Way Mumbai, Prerana (Udaan team), and Rangoonwala Foundation India Trust, Asma brings crucial knowledge and skills to her role. Asma also enjoys crafting, reading, and traveling in her free time.

Aparna Jadhav

Project Coordinator
Aparna Jadhav is our Project Coordinator with BSW and MA in Education from Azim Premji University. Aparna brings valuable experience to our team with her prior experience of working at Arth Foundation. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, eating, and dancing.

Smriti Mishra

Assistant Program Manager
Smriti Mishra is an artist at heart with a passion for “thinking and thought-ing.” She holds a B.A. (Hons) in English from Jamia Millia Islamia, a B.Ed. from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, and an M.A. in Social Work with a focus on Women-Centered Practice from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. Smriti believes the world is a more beautiful place when seen through a feminist lens—with a cup of coffee and a plate of momos!

Archana Emanuel

Program Manager
Archana Emanuel, our Program Manager has completed her BA and holds extensive experience working with organizations like Oasis and Free a Girl prior to joining Prerana. When Archana’s not tackling social issues head-on, you can find her swinging a cricket bat on the field.

Deepti Sawant

Program Manager
Deepti Sawant, our Program Manager with a MSW from TISS and a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering from TSEC, has been contributing to the world of social impact. She brings rich experience of working with Impact Guru, Ruas India, and the RAAY Foundation prior to Prerana. You can find her diving into books, cooking, sparking conversations, or unleashing her inner artist in her leisure time.
UNNATI: Redefining Care
AASHIYANA

Pooja Yadav

Program Manager

Pooja holds a Master’s degree in Social Work, which she completed in 2013. With over a decade of experience in the social sector, she has contributed significantly to community development and behavior change initiatives. She worked with Youth for Unity and Voluntary Action (YUVA) from 2013 to 2020, followed by the Center for Social and Behavior Change Communication from 2020 to 2022.

Pooja is renowned for her collaborative approach, fostering strong team dynamics, and building effective partnerships with government stakeholders to drive organizational goals. Beyond her professional expertise, she is an exceptional storyteller and a talented voice-over artist. In her free time, Pooja enjoys dancing, which brings a creative spark to her vibrant personality.

Sneha Sathe

Center Attendant

Sneha is a final-year Bachelor of Computer Science student with a strong passion for social impact, particularly in supporting women and children. From 2021 to 2023, she gained valuable experience working with Youth for Unity and Voluntary Action (YUVA) and Navi Mumbai Childline.

A quick learner and budding technologist, Sneha thrives in software development and enjoys exploring emerging fields like ethical hacking. She is also a creative storyteller who finds joy in writing and discovering new skills. Known for her excellent time management, Sneha balances her professional and academic pursuits seamlessly—often accompanied by her favorite music in the background.

Neha Kondvilkar

Project Coordinator

Neha holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from IGNOU and has extensive experience in community development and engagement. She has worked with leading organizations such as Maharashtra Janvikas Kendra (2016–2019), CCDT (2019–2022), ARMMAN (2022–2023), and the Rangoonwala Foundation Trust (2023–2024).

Passionate about connecting with people and capturing their unique journeys, Neha brings empathy and creativity to her work. Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys traveling to new destinations, experimenting with cooking, and showcasing her dynamic personality as an anchor.

Nilanjana Putatunda

Project Coordinator

Nilanjana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition (2011) and a Master’s in Social Work (2013). She has further enhanced her expertise through specialized certifications in Trauma-Informed Care and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).

With extensive experience in the social sector, Nilanjana has worked with notable organizations such as the All Bengal Women’s Union (2016–2023) and SNEHA. Her passion lies in child health and nutrition, advocacy, and empowering caregivers through capacity-building initiatives.

In her free time, Nilanjana enjoys expressing her creativity through singing, immersing herself in music, and exploring new books.

Shahanara Rubiya Shaikh

Outreach Coordinator

Shahanara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology (2018) and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. From 2018 to 2022, she gained valuable professional experience working with Certification Engineers International Limited.

A natural people person, Shahanara thrives on building connections and engaging with diverse communities. She also expresses her creativity through her love for dancing, drawing, and embroidery, making her a vibrant and multifaceted individual.

Zohra Suleman Shah

Project Coordinator (Help Desk & Child Protection)

Zohra holds a Master’s degree in Social Work (2022) and has gained valuable experience as a Probation Officer at A.D. Bawla Female Orphanage. With a strong passion for child protection, she is eager to expand her knowledge and practical expertise in this critical field.

In her free time, Zohra enjoys immersing herself in K-dramas, listening to K-pop and Hindi music, and channeling her creativity into writing captivating stories.

Sandhya Narayan Katkar

Senior Project Coordinator

Sandhya earned her Master’s in Social Work from IGNOU in 2019 and has contributed her expertise to organizations such as Childline India Foundation and Hamara Foundation.

Recognized for her patience and resilience, Sandhya excels at managing challenging situations with a calm and thoughtful approach. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys traveling to new destinations and unwinding with her favorite music.

Saraswati Ganesh Pagde

Center Attendant

Saraswati holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work and has built a strong foundation in the field through her work with YUVA on the Childline project since 2019, and as a fellow with the Center for Mental Health Law and Policy (2022–2023).

Known for her collaborative spirit, Saraswati brings humor and patience to her team interactions, fostering a positive work environment. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys trekking, reading history, and expressing her creativity through drawing.

Mahesh Billu

Activity Coordinator

Mahesh holds a Master’s in Social Work from IGNOU and has gained valuable experience through internships with Prerana, YUVA, and Urmi Foundation. He has also been a part of Prerana’s Sanmaan Project previously.

Known for his leadership qualities and great sense of humor, Mahesh brings a dynamic and approachable presence to his team. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, trekking, and expressing his creativity through painting.

Rajni Rakesh Golani

Consultant (Social Security Linkages)
Rajni completed her SSC and a Para-Professional Course in 2005. She has since gained valuable experience working with organizations such as Pratham NGO, St. Xavier’s College, Tata Social Center, and Dhriti Foundation. With a deep passion for social work, Rajni is committed to making a difference in the lives of those in need. In her spare time, she enjoys writing poetry and immersing herself in reading, continually expanding her horizons.

Ragamala Datta

Assistant Program Manager

Ragamala holds a BA in Social Sciences (2017), an MA in Social Work (2019), and an MPhil in Social Work (2022) from TISS. Over the years, she has gained diverse experience working with organizations like ITIHAAS, WWF India, Snehalaya, and Aashiyana.

Ragamala is deeply committed to continuous learning and growth, always open to new perspectives. Outside of her professional work, she finds joy in spotting bougainvillea trees during her strolls, reflecting her appreciation for nature’s simple beauty.

Arpita Singh

Project Coordinator

Arpita holds a Master’s in Social Work from Amity University. Passionate about making a positive impact, she enjoys spending quality time with children and her family. Arpita is always exploring new opportunities for personal and professional growth, embracing every chance to learn and evolve.

Rashmi Taylor

MEL & Grant Management Consultant

Rashmi holds a Master’s degree in Social Work (2017) and has completed a Programme in Development Management from the S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research. She began her journey with Prerana as an intern in 2016. She has contributed to the organization in various professional roles.

A passionate cat lover, Rashmi is also committed to lifelong learning, regularly enrolling in educational courses to broaden her knowledge and skills. Her dedication to both personal and professional growth makes her an invaluable asset to the team.