Navigating Beyond Knowledge

VAKA began with a coffee chat and hot potato wedges on a rainy day.

In 2025, Vanitha and Kanchan met to explore a community project around a five-week mindfulness series that Vanitha was hosting. Kanchan came on board to help bring the project to life, and what began as a formal collaboration soon blossomed into a deep friendship.

Over the year that followed, they hosted multiple community events and their conversations evolved into a bigger question: how could they make a greater impact on young people? 

They realized they were both passionate about giving young people more opportunities to build the real-world skills they need to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Vanitha, an entrepreneur, brings more than 13 years of experience in mindfulness coaching, helping professionals, leaders and young people reduce stress, improve focus and develop a stronger sense of well-being.

Kanchan, a banking executive, brings more than 26 years of experience leading complex businesses across strategy, operations, transformation and customer experience, along with the knowledge gained through her Stanford LEAD executive leadership program.

What makes their partnership unique is the combination of these strengths. 

Vanitha understands the inner game, helping people pause, reflect and build the foundation to thrive. Kanchan understands the outer game, bringing ideas to life and turning vision into action.

Together, they began to imagine what they could create for young people by bringing these perspectives together.

And so, VAKA was born.

As mothers, they have experienced first-hand the joys and challenges of watching young people find their way. They understand how much the right support, guidance and encouragement can matter.

VAKA grew from that belief.

They envision VAKA growing into a global institute that helps young people approach their future with confidence and optimism.

What began with coffee, conversation and a concept is now VAKA. 

And this is only the beginning.