About
Samvada
Samvada is a collective of passionate individuals united by a shared vision: creating a gender-just, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable world. For over 30 years, we have been empowering socially and economically disadvantaged youth across Karnataka, guiding them to lead lives of dignity, self-discovery, and purpose.
By partnering with young people, we aim to understand their unique journeys—transitions to adulthood, dilemmas, vulnerabilities, and aspirations. This dynamic exchange of learning and growth has helped us innovate and adapt to meet the complex needs of youth in an ever-changing world. Grounded in the principles of the Indian Constitution, we champion youth rights to equality and freedom, advocating for their recognition as citizens with rights today. We believe that enabling young people to embrace their individuality, make informed decisions, and have their voices heard will empower them to challenge societal norms and shape a better future.
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Our Vision
Empowering youth to build a gender just, inclusive and sustainable world.
Our Journey
While the Kanaja Youth Research Centre amplifies youth voices and experiences through research. The Centre for Youth Promotion and Rights Advocacy further strengthens our commitment to youth rights and active citizenship.
This journey is driven by the vibrancy of thousands of youth who have walked with us, the dedication of our staff, the solidarity of peers, and the support of our donors. While we celebrate how far we’ve come, we remain committed to building a brighter, inclusive future. Together, we continue to walk alongside the youth of Karnataka, fostering change, inspiring hope, and shaping a world of equality and sustainability.
Samvada’s journey began in 1989 when our founder, Anita Ratnam, established the Bangalore SMILE Centre under the Indo-German Social Service Society. Her mission was to bridge the gap between elite educational institutions and the realities of rural and urban poverty. In 1992, this initiative evolved into Samvada, an autonomous organization dedicated to building a just and equitable world in collaboration with the youth of Karnataka.
Over the years, we have grown into a dynamic organization with initiatives that include five Youth Resource Centres that serve as safe and vibrant spaces for young people to explore their aspirations, develop critical thinking, and build confidence. The Baduku Centre for Livelihoods Learning offers pioneering livelihood training aligned with ethical and sustainable practices,
What We Do
At Samvada, we don’t just “serve young people in need.” We partner with them to drive social change and co-create a better world. Our approach is rooted in the belief that young people are not merely recipients of support but active agents of transformation. Together, we work toward a shared vision of building a gender-just, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable society.
With a dedicated team of 45 individuals, we engage with youth through programs that foster critical thinking, promote self-awareness, and build skills for advocacy, leadership, and livelihoods.
By creating safe spaces for dialogue and exploration, we empower young people to challenge societal norms, embrace diversity, and take meaningful action within their communities.
Samvada’s work reflects a commitment to standing alongside youth as companions on their journeys of self-discovery, growth, and impact. Together, we are shaping a future that upholds equity, inclusion, and sustainability for all.