Deshpande Foundation

Social Immersion next takes us to the Skill in Village (SiV) program, where impact begins early.

In rural classrooms, students build English communication, life skills, and critical thinking, laying strong foundations for the future. This stop reflects our belief that meaningful change starts by empowering young minds where they learn and grow.

Social Immersion continues at Deshpande Startups—where ideas are nurtured into impactful ventures.

This is where founders, mentors, and technology come together through incubation, labs, and shared spaces to solve real-world problems. A closer look at how innovation is built, supported, and scaled with intent.

What’s your Everest? An exhilarating & reflective story by Samir Nicholas Patham, Everest Summiteer, hosted by Deshpande Skilling

Deshpande Skilling kicked off its 'Leadership Series' on July 11, 2025, with Everest Summiteer Samir Patham, who shared his inspiring journey in "What's Your Everest?". Patham recounted his 2018 , a triumph after two failed attempts due to an avalanche and extreme winds.

He powerfully connected mountaineering with rural transformation, highlighting shared virtues like skill, adaptability, leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Both endeavors, though distinct, exemplify pushing human limits to achieve "elevation"—be it literal or metaphorical.

Patham, co-author of the book "What's Your Everest? A Path to Passion & Purpose," encouraged attendees to define their own personal "Everest." Deshpande Skilling expressed gratitude to Samir Patham for his truly motivating talk.