Meet Our Founder
Sangeeta Mehra
From Fashion Designer to Change Maker
"Every child deserves a chance to dream and achieve those dreams. Education is not a privilege - it is a fundamental right that can break the cycle of poverty and transform entire communities."
A Journey of Transformation
How personal motivation became a movement for change
Sangeeta Mehra was a successful fashion designer and entrepreneur, running her own business and part of the renowned Mehrasons Jewellers family. She had built a thriving career in the fashion industry, but something was missing.
Walking through the streets of Delhi, Sangeeta was deeply moved by the plight of street children begging at traffic lights, living in dire conditions without access to basic necessities. This maternal compassion sparked a transformation in her life's purpose.
In 2005, Sangeeta made a life-changing decision - she gave up her fashion business to devote herself entirely to social work. "I decided to lose myself in the service of others," she recalls, determined to "spread a better life" for street children.
Starting with her older son Aashray, Sangeeta began with just 10 local street children in their neighborhood. What started as providing basic food, clothing, and shelter gradually evolved into informal classes and eventually school enrollment support.
Two decades later, Spread A Smile India has transformed over 300 lives, enrolled 250+ children in schools with zero dropout rate, trained 85+ women in vocational skills, and continues to grow its impact across Delhi slum communities.
Leadership Philosophy
To create a future where every child born in poverty can break the cycle of destitution through education and empowerment.
Leading with maternal love and treating every child as her own, ensuring dignity and respect in all interactions.
Building bridges between different sections of society, creating partnerships that strengthen the support system for children.
Believing that education is the most powerful tool for transformation and sustainable change in children's lives.
Creating self-reliant individuals who can stand on their own feet, not dependent beneficiaries.
Every child and family member is treated with respect, preserving their dignity throughout the transformation process.
Recognition & Media
Sangeeta Mehra's work has been recognized nationally and internationally
<p><p>&lt;p&gt;When I see a child who was once begging at traffic lights now sitting in a classroom, reading and writing, my heart fills with immense joy. This transformation is not just theirs - it's ours, as a society. Every child we help is someone's hope realized. They are not just statistics or beneficiaries; they are future teachers, doctors, artists, and leaders. My journey from fashion to social work taught me that true success is measured not by what we accumulate, but by what we give back. Twenty years ago, I made a decision to lose myself in the service of others. Today, I have found myself in the smiles of over 300 children who now have a chance at a dignified life. I have found purpose in the tears of mothers who can now send their children to school instead of begging. The work is far from over. There are still countless children on our streets who need hope, education, and care. But I am not alone in this journey. I am blessed to have volunteers, donors, partners, and well-wishers who believe in this mission as deeply as I do. I invite you to join this beautiful journey of transformation. Whether you volunteer for an hour, donate a rupee, or simply spread awareness, you become part of a child's success story. Together, we can ensure that every child gets the chance to spread their own smile. With love and gratitude, Sangeeta Mehra&lt;/p&gt;</p></p>
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