Ravi Mhatre

Ravi discovered his talent for technical work through Sumati Balwan's vocational programme. He now runs a small electrical contracting business in Pune and employs three apprentices from the neighbourhood.

Currently Electrical Contractor and Small Business Owner Class of 2017

Finding His Direction

Ravi grew up in a chawl in Pimpri-Chinchwad, the elder of two brothers. Formal schooling felt remote from the world he knew — until Sumati Balwan introduced a basic electronics and wiring unit as part of its vocational electives. He recalls the afternoon a visiting electrician demonstrated how a simple circuit worked: he had understood the concept before the explanation was finished. From that moment, he had a direction.

Vocational Training

After completing 8th grade, Ravi enrolled in the ITI electrician trade course with the school's support and scholarship guidance. He passed the National Trade Certificate exam on his first attempt with distinction and secured an apprenticeship at a Pune-based construction contractor.

Building a Business

Building a Business

Where He Is Today

Ravi registered his own electrical contracting firm in 2022. He takes on residential and light commercial projects across Pimpri-Chinchwad and currently employs three apprentices, all from backgrounds similar to his own. He credits Sumati Balwan with showing him that technical skill is a profession to be proud of, not merely a fallback.