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Empowering Kashmiri Women: The HemAth Story

HemAth’s story is one of resilience and empowerment, rooted in the belief that women hold the power to transform their communities. Named after the Kashmiri word for ‘strength,’ HemAth is dedicated to supporting displaced Kashmiri women by intertwining the preservation of their rich cultural heritage with efforts to promote economic independence. Our initiatives aim to build resilient communities and reignite dreams, turning adversity into opportunity and fostering a brighter future for all.
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Our Story

In 1990, when the world turned upside down for Kashmiri Pandits, we lost more than just our homes. We lost our sense of belonging, our livelihoods, and, for many of our sisters, their dreams. But like the mighty chinar tree, we refused to be uprooted. In 2018, five Kashmiri women—Dr. Shakun Malik, Dr. Rajesh Mattoo, Reena Moza, Renu Tickoo Wokhlu, and Surabhi Bhan Kotru—came together with a vision. They recognized the untapped potential in our displaced women and understood that by empowering them, we could lift entire families out of adversity.

Our Mission and Vision

Mission

Our mission is multifaceted and deeply rooted in the belief that empowering women can transform entire communities.

  • Preserve and Promote Kashmiri Cultural Heritage
  • Foster Economic Independence through Skill Development
  • Nurture Holistic Well-Being and Community Resilience

Vision

Our vision is a world where every Kashmiri woman, irrespective of her circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive and make meaningful contributions to her community’s prosperity. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and opportunity, we aim to create a ripple effect that not only transforms individual lives but also uplifts entire communities, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all.

Our Journey So Far

Our Team: The Pillars of HemAth

Dr Shakun Malik
President, Founder & CEO

A native of Srinagar, Kashmir Dr. Malik’s journey from a displaced Kashmiri to a highly accomplished oncologist inspires our mission. Her vision and leadership drive HemAth’s commitment to empowering Kashmiri women.

Dr. Rajesh Mattoo
Vice President & Treasurer

Born and raised in Srinagar, Kashmir With a Ph.D. in Ecology and an MPA in Healthcare Administration, Dr. Mattoo brings a unique blend of scientific rigor and administrative expertise to our financial management.

Reena Moza
Director

a native of Srinagar, Kashmir, holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Kashmir. She relocated to San Francisco, California, USA in 1985.

Renu Tickoo Wokhlu
Director

a native of Kashmir, experienced the exodus first-hand, subsequently residing in Jammu before moving to Texas in 2001. As an engineer in the semiconductor industry, she has built a successful professional career.

Surabhi Bhan Kotru
Director

born and brought up in Delhi, is a finance professional who relocated to the United States in 2011. Since then, she has actively engaged with various non-profit organizations, particularly those focused on supporting children.

Ambika Raina
Education Specialist

A former school principal, Ambika leads our educational initiatives with passion and experience.

Karuna Dhar Munshi
Wellness Program Lead

An Art of Living teacher, Karuna spearheads our wellness initiatives, including yoga and meditation programs.

Rainoo Raina
Team Leader Athoor and Earings Project

Rainoo became a part of HemAth in 2021 in order to empower the KP women. She ls the group leader of athoor making.

Shakuntala Koul Bhat
Team leader Tektal group

Shakuntala is working in a reputed goods transport company (NITCO) in accounts since 2008.

Sonu Bhatt
Team leader Kashmiri spices project

she has been an active volunteer of Yaiks and HemAth organizations.

Dr. Meena Munshi
Development Programs Specialist

With decades of experience in designing development programs, Dr. Munshi advises on our inclusive growth strategies.

Kamlesh Munshi
Data Analytics Expert

Kamlesh’s expertise in data analysis helps us measure and improve our impact.

Asha Wazir Biswas
Chief General Manager (Corp Mgmt Services) and Mgmt Representative, MECON

Mentoring and guiding youngsters to realize their potential and has been a role model to many, while empowering others to overcome challenges and surge ahead

Abishek Ganjoo
Elevance Health

Chicago, Illinois, USA Master of Science, Cal State East Bay Bachelor of Engineering, BIT Mesra

Amrita Kar
Social Media Lead

She enjoys exploring and implementing programs that promote and preserve everything Kashmiri be it literature, language, creative arts, or food, while trying to understand and collate her exiled community, young and old, across the world.

Kamesh Munshi
IT and Tech support

Kamesh M. is a marketing and branding professional with a passion for creativity and purpose.

Ashish Raina

Strategic Alliance Executive Pegasystems
Chicago, Illinois, USA

Rasika Raina
SVP at Mastercard

She is in service of the Kashmiri community, especially the parts of it that remain dispossessed through Wate Havuk program.

Shivani Raina
Educator

Her work integrates research and teaching in the areas of culture, language, and cognitive communication development.

Pallavi Kaul
Asst. Professor,

Department of Surgical Oncology at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital, Dehradun

Megha Koul
Medical assistant,

Massachusetts General Hospital Sports Medicine Clinic Megha intends to help young women like her achieve all their dreams and goals.

Rita Bhan Zutshi
Ex-principal,

Junior College in Hyderabad She believes this program is the perfect way to build the next generation of strong, independent women.

Monu Bambroo

Customer Success
Microsoft

Pradeep Wazir

Business Leader

Our Valued Allies in Empowerment

HemAth is privileged to collaborate with a network of esteemed organizations and dedicated supporters. Their invaluable partnership not only strengthens our mission but also amplifies our impact in empowering the Kashmiri women. Through these collaborations, we are able to provide more comprehensive resources, training, and opportunities that foster economic independence and personal growth. By working together, we are creating a supportive and resilient community where every woman has the chance to thrive and contribute to a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

Discover Partnership Opportunities

Are you an organization looking to make a lasting impact? Partner with HemAth to create meaningful change for displaced Kashmiri women.
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Make a Donation

Your generosity can transform lives. Every contribution, big or small, helps us empower more Kashmiri women.
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Volunteer with Us

Lend your skills and time to our cause. Whether you’re in Jammu or New Jersey, there’s a place for you in our parivar (family).
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Join HemAth's Parivar

Subscribe Today Become part of our extended family by subscribing to HemAth’s newsletter. Stay updated on our efforts to empower displaced Kashmiri women. Be the first to know about our latest projects, stories, anda opportunities for you to make a difference. Whether you’re a donor, employee, supporter, or someone who believes in our cause, your connection matters.
Welcome to HemAth, where we’re on a mission to bring hemAth (strength) back to our Kashmiri sisters. Born from the ashes of displacement, we’re here to rekindle the fire of hope and prosperity in our community.
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