About Us

​Apni Shala is an 11-year-old  Mumbai-based social impact organisation with a vision to build social emotional learning (SEL) competencies in individuals for a harmonious coexistence. 

Since our inception in 2013, we have reached 15000+ children, 4000+ educators and caregivers, working with 40+ partners. Since 2017, our SEL-aligned school Khoj has been operational as a Whole School Transformation Initiative - using a holistic educational model that centres students’ psychosocial wellbeing in the classroom as well as community ecosystem. Khoj currently caters to 320 students.

Our framework for social-emotional development is based on an international framework called CASEL. It has been adapted to the Indian context through ongoing research and practice and is informed by mental health practices such as Narrative Therapy and mindfulness, educational practices such as constructivist learning theory and rooted in the principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

We also engage educators, parents/caregivers and others who are advocates for young people’s wellbeing, through our outreach and training programmes like the Mental Health Ambassadors and SEL Shala respectively.​

Vision

At Apni Shala, our vision is to build social and emotional competencies among individuals, empowering them to engage constructively with society and promote a harmonious coexistence. We believe that through the development of these skills, individuals can create inclusive, empathetic and equitable communities.

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Mission

​Our mission for 2024-29 is to transform K-10 educational institutions into SEL-aligned (Social and Emotional Learning) learning spaces. We aim to embed SEL into the core of educational practices, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also develop the social and emotional skills necessary to navigate life effectively and contribute positively to society.

Our Values

Trust

We foster trust by approaching every individual, task, and process with openness and authenticity. We create safe spaces for ourselves and others, working collaboratively toward our shared vision and mission. Through courage and mutual respect, we build and nurture strong relationships.

Compassion

Compassion is at the heart of our work. We express love and care by understanding the needs and emotions of all—ourselves, our partners, our students, and the environment. Compassion allows us to build meaningful relationships and cultivate an environment of well-being for everyone involved.

Equity

We prioritise equity by making decisions and taking actions that consider the diverse lived and historical experiences of marginalisation and privilege. We are committed to transparency and fairness in the distribution of resources, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.