Mahadev’s story is not just one of personal triumph—it is the story of resilience, of fighting against the odds, and of using one’s journey to uplift others. He was born into a world where education was not a priority, where survival took precedence over dreams. His father, an auto-rickshaw driver, had never seen education as an investment worth making, not out of neglect, but because he had never experienced its transformative power himself. In a household where formal learning was not valued, Mahadev’s future could have followed a predictable path—one that led nowhere beyond daily survival.
But his mother had different plans. She saw in her children what no one else did—potential. With unwavering determination, she worked alongside his father, ensuring that Mahadev, his younger sister, and his younger brother received an education. Her sacrifices meant that Mahadev could complete a diploma in Electrical and Electronics, his sister could earn a degree, and his brother could finish 10th grade. She pushed them toward a future where they could break free from the cycle that had trapped so many before them.
Yet, the journey was never easy. Growing up in the slums of India, Mahadev faced struggles that few can truly understand. There were days when securing a meal was uncertain. There was no one in his community who had pursued higher education, no role models to look up to. The weight of expectations, the pressure to abandon education and contribute financially, and the isolation of choosing a different path made every step forward feel like a battle.
And then, football entered his life.
Football was not just a game to Mahadev—it was a lifeline. It introduced him to people beyond his community, opened doors to experiences he had never imagined, and most importantly, gave him a reason to dream. Through football, he learned about teamwork, leadership, and the value of perseverance. The game gave him confidence, a sense of identity, and the courage to aim higher.
After completing his diploma, Mahadev moved to Bangalore for work but later returned to Dharwad. It was there, in the academic year 2016-2017, that he first encountered Enabling Leadership. As a volunteer referee for the EL Play program, he was unknowingly stepping into a world that would forever change his life. His passion and dedication did not go unnoticed, and soon, he was offered a role as a Program Associate.
This was the moment everything changed.
As a Program Associate in the EL Play program, Mahadev was not just teaching football—he was instilling leadership skills, confidence, and hope in children who, like him, had never been told they could achieve more. He worked tirelessly, conducting sessions that helped students see beyond their immediate struggles. He was particularly proud to have introduced and executed the first girls’ batches in the organization, breaking cultural barriers and giving young girls the space to dream just as big as the boys.
But Mahadev’s most profound realization came during a home visit. One of his students, a young girl who was regular in his sessions, was visibly withdrawn, hesitant, and fearful. A visit to her home revealed a household filled with conflict—a daily battleground of verbal fights between her parents. Seeing her situation struck a deep chord within Mahadev, reminding him of his own childhood struggles. He saw himself in her, and in that moment, he understood the true purpose of his work. He was not just a coach. He was a guide, a mentor, and perhaps the only beacon of hope in some of these children’s lives.
From that moment on, Mahadev knew Enabling Leadership was not just another job—it was his calling.
Through Enabling Leadership, Mahadev has grown not only as an educator but as a leader. He has learned the importance of planning, decision-making, public speaking, and emotional intelligence. Today, as the City Lead of Dharwad, his role goes beyond coaching. He manages government relations, builds and develops teams, and ensures the effective execution of programs across multiple rural sites.
The impact of his work is undeniable. He has seen students transform—from hesitant, uncertain children into confident, responsible young leaders. They become more engaged in school, more cooperative at home, and more aware of their potential. His students are learning the most valuable lesson of all: to never give up.
As a City Lead, Mahadev played a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding the Program Associates who worked directly with students, shaping their growth and leadership journeys. Under his mentorship, several Enabling Leadership students have gone on to achieve remarkable milestones. Chaitra, a student facing communication challenges, flourished through the EL Play program, finding confidence and a sense of belonging with the support of her coaches. Suma, an alumna, developed emotional resilience through music and credits Enabling Leadership for instilling discipline and time management skills that continue to shape her success. Vinoda, a determined young girl from a small village, trained under dedicated Program Associates and, through her perseverance and skill, secured a place at the national-level football tournament—an accomplishment that brought immense pride to her school, her family, and her entire community. These stories stand as a testament to Mahadev’s leadership, proving that impactful mentorship creates a ripple effect, changing not just individual lives, but entire communities.
These are not just stories. They are proof that Enabling Leadership is more than an initiative—it is a revolution. It is a movement that is changing the course of lives. It is ensuring that children from underserved communities, who once had no chance, now have every opportunity to thrive.
Mahadev’s journey is a testament to the power of believing in something bigger than oneself. From a child whose future was uncertain to a leader who is now shaping hundreds of futures, his story is a reminder that true change begins with one person willing to take a stand. He is not just giving back—he is paying it forward.
For those who wonder why investing in underprivileged children matters, Mahadev’s story is the answer. When given the right opportunities, these children don’t just survive—they lead. And in their leadership, they transform not only their own lives but the lives of everyone around them.
Enabling Leadership is not just about kindness. It is about breaking cycles of poverty, dismantling barriers, and creating a world where talent is not lost to circumstance. Mahadev is living proof that change is possible—and he is making sure that the next generation knows it too.
