Our Background
Wesley Welfare Development Institute is a purpose-driven organization committed to empowering underprivileged communities through impactful grassroots initiatives. Since the year 2000, we have been actively working in the Ramtekde slums of Pune, focusing on providing immediate relief and long-term solutions to pressing needs.
Our efforts include conducting health camps, distributing essential groceries, and contributing to the construction of a school for local children. In addition to offering relief, we prioritize sustainable empowerment by supporting families in starting home-based businesses and offering vocational training in tailoring.
In 2012, we expanded our work to Krishna Nagar, where we continue to provide health and dental camps, along with essential grocery distribution to families in need.
our approach to residential care
We are committed to fostering both academic and personal development. In addition to providing the means and encouragement to gain a formal education, we also focus on the emotional well-being of the residents. True to the name, we have and continue to ensure all resident children are provided emotional support with a focus on their happiness and wellbeing.
Another component of the bigger picture is life skills training, which includes helping children build the resilience and strength they need to become independent and capable citizens.
Our approach goes beyond academics by offering practical skills and emotional support that prepare the children to face life’s challenges confidently. Happy House is more than just a place to live—it’s a well-planned, transformative environment where young individuals are shaped into socially responsible, empowered adults ready to contribute positively to their communities and nations.
Our Committee
The Board of Trustees of Wesley Welfare Development Institute has been carefully constituted to reflect the organisation's core values of compassion, integrity, service, education, empowerment, and sustainable community development. Each trustee has been selected not only for their professional expertise and leadership but also for their shared commitment to creating meaningful social impact. Together, they bring diverse experience in education, psychology, community development, operations, governance, finance, training, and organisational leadership, enabling the Institute to approach complex social challenges with knowledge, innovation, and accountability. United by a common vision that every child and community deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy, educated, and dignified life, the trustees provide strategic direction, uphold the highest standards of governance, and ensure that Wesley Welfare Development Institute remains focused on its mission of empowering communities through nutrition, education, and sustainable development.
Mr. Joy R. Makasare
Chairman
Joy Ramesh Makasare serves as the Chairman of Wesley Welfare Development Institute, providing strategic leadership and overseeing the organisation's operations, partnerships, and fundraising initiatives. A graduate of the University of Pune and an alumnus of The Bishop's School, Pune, Joy began his professional career in the financial services sector, where he consistently excelled in customer relationship management and business development. He later held leadership roles in loan brokerage and retail with Reliance Brands Ltd., where he was recognised for his excellence in visual merchandising and team management. Inspired and mentored by the Founder, Mr. Ramesh Makasare, Joy transitioned into the development sector, dedicating himself to serving vulnerable communities. Today, he leads WWDI's programmes, donor engagement, organisational development, and resource mobilisation, ensuring the Institute continues to expand its impact in nutrition, education, and community development.
Mrs. Rachana Tribhuwan
Secretary
Mrs. Rachana Tribhuwan brings over nine years of professional experience in customer relationship management, process optimisation, and team leadership. She has successfully managed operational processes, implemented service excellence standards, and coordinated high-performing teams across diverse work environments. As Secretary of Wesley Welfare Development Institute, she plays a key role in organisational governance, administration, documentation, and stakeholder coordination. Her strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to efficient management contribute significantly to the effective functioning of the organisation.
Mr. George R. Makasare
Treasurer
Mr. George Makasare is an internationally trained lifesaving professional, educator, and community development leader with nearly two decades of experience in aquatic safety, capacity building, and programme management. As Chief Executive Officer of LSFI, he has led large-scale lifesaving initiatives, developed professional training curricula, and trained thousands of lifeguards, swimming coaches, and safety professionals across India. His extensive experience includes managing beach lifeguard operations, leading national training programmes, advising safety and rescue equipment manufacturers, and building partnerships with government agencies and international organisations. Passionate about youth development, he has mentored numerous young people from underserved communities, equipping them with professional skills and employment opportunities. As Treasurer, he provides financial oversight and strategic guidance while strengthening institutional partnerships and organisational sustainability.
Mrs. Ashalata Makasare
Trustee (Founder)
Mrs. Ashalata Makasare is an accomplished educator with over 40 years of distinguished service in government education as a teacher and later as a principal. Throughout her career, she worked extensively with children from disadvantaged backgrounds, gaining deep insight into the challenges faced by underserved communities and the transformative role of education. In recognition of her exceptional contribution to education, she was honoured with the National Best Teacher Award by the Government of India. Beyond formal schooling, she dedicated herself to adult literacy programmes, women's moral and value education, community outreach, and Census Board initiatives. Her lifelong commitment to education and social service inspired the establishment of Wesley Welfare Development Institute alongside her husband, laying the foundation for the organisation's enduring mission of empowering communities through education, nutrition, and holistic development.
Mr. Nikhil Ranbhise
Sculpting & Mixed Media
Mr. Nikhil Ranbhise is an experienced educator with over 17 years of expertise in teaching and mentoring children across diverse age groups, from early childhood through adolescence. His work has consistently focused on nurturing the holistic development of children by integrating academic excellence with emotional, social, and ethical learning. With a deep understanding of child development and educational practices, Mr. Ranbhise contributes valuable insight to the Institute's education and child development initiatives. His experience helps strengthen programmes that create safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environments, ensuring children receive the support they need to reach their full potential.
Mrs. Neha Ranbhise
Trustee
Mrs. Neha Ranbhise holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Industrial Psychology. She brings over 13 years of experience in Learning and Development, with expertise in instructional design, eLearning development, and designing learner-centred training solutions that promote effective and engaging learning experiences. A passionate advocate for education and child development, Neha has been actively involved in community service since her student years, volunteering with various social initiatives and NGOs. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to supporting children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and reinforced her belief that quality education has the power to transform lives. As a mother of two, she understands the importance of providing every child with opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Her passion for teaching, mentoring, and nurturing young minds aligns closely with the mission of Wesley Welfare Development Institute, where she contributes towards strengthening educational initiatives and empowering children to realise their full potential.
Mr. Shashank Xavier
Trustee
Mr. Shashank Xavier is a seasoned operations professional with over 16 years of experience across diverse industries, having worked with both national and international organisations. He currently leads Operations at a leading technology company in Pune, where he oversees strategic initiatives, operational excellence, process improvement, and customer operations. His extensive corporate experience in leadership, organisational management, and strategic planning brings valuable expertise to the governance of Wesley Welfare Development Institute. As a dedicated professional and a young father, Shashank is deeply committed to building strong, value-driven communities and creating opportunities for sustainable social impact. As Trustee, he is committed to supporting the long-term growth, governance, and sustainability of the organisation, helping strengthen its mission of empowering vulnerable children and communities through nutrition, education, and holistic development.