About Us

Vanavil is more than just an NGO — it is a movement for dignity. Born in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, Vanavil began as a safe haven for children from nomadic communities in Tamil Nadu — communities that had long been pushed to the margins.
About Us

What We Do

Vanavil works with two of India’s most marginalized nomadic tribes—the Boom Boom Mattukarars and Narikuravars. These communities face generational exclusion from schools, jobs, and society.

Our programs include a joyful primary school, a home for vulnerable children, after-school centers in tribal hamlets, college scholarships for first-gen learners, and women’s livelihood training.

We partner with Childline to protect at-risk children and respond swiftly during natural disasters, ensuring no one is left behind. We believe education is freedom. Livelihood is dignity. And action is love.

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Our Goals

Here, we aim for colors into these beautiful lives, just like a Vanavil.

We aim to bring quality education to children from nomadic and marginalized communities who have long been excluded from mainstream schooling. Through our residential school and outreach programs, we ensure every child has the opportunity to learn, dream, and thrive.

Vanavil works to uplift entire communities by focusing not just on education, but also on nutrition, health, and family support. By addressing the root causes of exclusion, we help families move towards stable, dignified livelihoods.

We strive to support nomadic communities in retaining their rich cultural heritage while accessing modern opportunities. Vanavil fosters respect for their traditions while creating space for progress and acceptance in society.

Beyond education, Vanavil advocates for systemic change. We work with government bodies, civil society, and local stakeholders to influence policies and build a more inclusive future for the children and communities we serve.

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our mission

Let's upbring these smiles.

For too long, nomadic communities have been unseen. At Vanavil, we see them. We walk with them. We rise with them. Because dignity is not a privilege. It is a right.Our goals are to:

  • Keep nomadic children in school
  • Create safe spaces for children and women
  • Support college education for tribal youth
  • Train women to earn and lead
  • Respond to emergencies with compassion

Our Members

They teach, guide, and protect. Some build classrooms, others share their skills. Every volunteer helps Vanavil grow stronger, wider, and kinder.
9

Revathi R.

Managing Trustee

4

Dinesh Sundaramurthy

Treasurer

1

Kalpana Bhat

Trustee

5

Ramesh Sundaresan

Trustee

Advisory Panel

2

Devishree Radhakrishnan

Advisor

7

Emaya Kannamma

Advisor

3

Krishnaveni

Advisor

10

Senthil Babu

Advisor

Team Members

6

Abinaya N

(Compliance & Finance Manager)

8

R Solairaj,

Deputy Director

“The ignited mind of the youth is the most powerful resource on the Earth.”
– Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam