About Founder

Geeta Patel: A Beacon of Hope and Change

Geeta Patel, the founder and president of Mahila Ekta Sangh, is a remarkable figure in the landscape of social work in Mumbai. Her journey, marked by unwavering dedication and a profound sense of responsibility towards the marginalized sections of society, has made a significant impact on countless lives. Based in Mumbai, this NGO has grown from a small initiative in the western suburb of Bandra East to a formidable force working across all major cities in Maharashtra.

Born and raised in a modest household, Geeta Patel was acutely aware of the challenges faced by the poor and marginalized from a young age. This awareness fueled her passion for social work and ignited her desire to make a tangible difference in her community. After completing her education, Geeta decided to dedicate her life to uplifting the underprivileged. She founded Mahila Ekta Sangh with a vision to provide holistic support to those in need, focusing primarily on education and women’s empowerment.

Education has always been at the heart of Geeta’s mission. She firmly believes that education is the cornerstone of empowerment and a crucial tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. In the early days of her work, Geeta noticed a significant number of children in Bandra East who had either dropped out of school or had never had the opportunity to attend. These children, often from families struggling to make ends meet, were deprived of basic education and the numerous opportunities that come with it.

To address this, Geeta initiated a campaign to help these children gain admission to public schools. Her efforts involved negotiating with school authorities, mobilizing community support, and even arranging for basic school supplies. Her relentless advocacy and hands-on approach have enabled many children to resume their education, paving the way for a brighter future.

Geeta’s commitment to education extends beyond enrollment. Understanding that the root causes of school dropouts often lie in economic hardship, she also provides financial assistance and tutoring support to ensure that these children can continue their studies without interruption. Through Mahila Ekta Sangh, Geeta has created a network of volunteers and educators who mentor and support students, helping them to stay on track academically.

Empowering women is another critical aspect of Geeta’s work. Recognizing that financial independence is key to a woman’s ability to make decisions and control her life, she has launched several initiatives aimed at helping women start their own small businesses. Mahila Ekta Sangh offers vocational courses in various trades such as tailoring, beauty therapy, and handicrafts. These courses not only provide women with the skills needed to start their own businesses but also boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Geeta’s support doesn’t end with training. She also assists women in setting up their businesses, offering micro-loans and connecting them with markets where they can sell their products. Her holistic approach ensures that women have the resources and support they need to succeed. Over the years, many women have transformed their lives through these initiatives, gaining financial independence and becoming role models in their communities.

In addition to her work in education and women’s empowerment, Geeta is also a fierce advocate for housing rights. In many parts of Mumbai and other cities in Maharashtra, illegal settlements are a common issue, often resulting in the threat of demolition. Geeta has been at the forefront of numerous campaigns to save people’s homes from being demolished. She works tirelessly to negotiate with authorities, organize legal support, and mobilize community action to protect the rights of those living in these settlements.

Geeta Patel’s work is characterized by a deep empathy for those she serves and a relentless pursuit of justice and equity. Her leadership in Mahila Ekta Sangh has created a ripple effect, inspiring many others to join the cause and contribute to the upliftment of society. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion, determination, and the impact one individual can make in the world.

Today, Mahila Ekta Sangh is a beacon of hope for the poor and marginalized in Maharashtra. Under Geeta’s leadership, the NGO continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, working tirelessly to create a more just and equitable society. Geeta Patel’s unwavering commitment to social work and her remarkable achievements stand as a powerful example of what can be achieved when one dedicates their life to the service of others. Her legacy is one of transformation, empowerment, and enduring change, touching lives and inspiring hope for a better tomorrow.