The Shikhar Dhawan Foundation is a non-profit organisation, committed to uplifting underserved communities. Led by its Director, Kanika Dewan, the foundation is working towards social transformation by empowering marginalised groups through community-based services. Dewan’s leadership was recently recognised by BW Disrupt at the 40 Under 40 Founders Forum 2023, where she was bestowed the ‘Future Master’ award.
Receiving the token of appreciation Dewan said the recognition would motivate her to pursue her mission with more ardour. She emphasised that the accolade would not only inspire the work that the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation was doing, but also shed light on the impact social work has on society. Social work, she stressed, extends beyond simple acts of kindness to a dedicated effort to bring about positive change within communities.
The Winning Secret
Dewan emphasised that her achievements in community development had come from an ability to effectively distinguish between strategy and welfare. She stressed that working at a socially responsible platform had taught her to fully commit herself to bring about societal transformation. She felt that she had been able to live up to the core principles of the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, which prioritised the welfare of those in need.
Devan said that her biggest learning at the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation had been gratitude. “Our organisation firmly believes that one's origin or regional background is inconsequential. Ultimately, what truly matters is showing kindness towards God and this kindness is manifested through expressing gratitude for even the smallest things,” she said.
Roadmap For 2024
Dewan said in the new year her goal was to uplift more communities by identifying their challenges. She was also enthusiastic about establishing stronger connections with diverse sources to broaden her reach. She pledged unwavering dedication to her organisation's main goal to tackle educational inequalities and actively fight against hunger. Women's empowerment and skill enhancement would also be among her priorities, she said.
“Over the past twelve years, I have been actively involved in interacting with individuals, understanding their needs and providing them with the necessary help,” Dewan said. “I am convinced that my endeavours are not to instil a feeling of inadequacy, but rather to extend support. Working with the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, my sole purpose is to assist people, as we all inevitably need some form of aid, even if we are uncertain about it,” she said.