About Us
Pankh (Foundation) was started in 2008 with an aim to bring a positive change in society. Initially, the Foundation worked only on donation activities through funds collected from well-wishers and pooled in from the founders. However, the founders of Pankh soon realized that this would have a limited impact and something more sustainable needed to be done to empower the women to earn a livelihood so that they do not depend on donations.
In 2014 Pankh Handicrafts was started with an aim to provide a platform to rural women for a sustainable source of income. Not just the women, their kids and families also became a part of the cheerful and warm environs of Pankh where they learnt life skills from volunteers who spent time teaching them after their school hours.
About Gouree Manjarekar
A post -graduate in computer application, a university rank holder in graduation, and having a job in multinational company; Gouree decided to choose something out of the box. She quit her job and settled in Chikodi, a small town in Karnataka state. Working for the rural women and children makes her happy. She loves designing new innovative products as ecofriendly alternatives for plastic.
About Manish Shanbhag
Manish is from Belgaum. He is an engineer and holds a Masters degree in Business Administration. He currently lives and works in France and is closely associated with the operations at Pankh. Manish enjoys sports, reading, and humor. He is active on many social initiatives and believes that each one of us, in one’s own capacity, should give back to society and better the lives of people.
About Smruti Kulkarni
Smruti hails from Belgaum. She is a computer science graduate and holds a Masters degree in Business Administration. Smruti strongly believes in the power of collaboration to make big things happen. She enjoys reading, writing (she’s a published author) and singing. Smruti is an advisor to Pankh.
About Sanket Manjarekar
Sanket is a mechanical engineer and a serial entrepreneur. He is a dealer of Honda 2 wheelers and is into construction business in Chikodi. He has always believed to stay close to his roots and provide employment to the people of his birthplace.
