Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 20: The Roshni Alumni Association (RAA) of the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, hosted the prestigious Roshni Impact Awards 2025, celebrating individuals whose life’s work has created lasting social impact rooted in dignity, justice, inclusion and compassion. The ceremony marked a historic milestone in the institution’s 65-year legacy of service.
The Kudla Beacon Award, symbolising fire as a force of light, hope and continuity, was awarded to Michael D’Souza for his global enterprise, empathy-driven philanthropy and sustained social impact. In his address, D’Souza humbly acknowledged the Almighty for granting him the ability to generate wealth and the generosity to share it with those in need. He reflected that he sees himself only as a custodian with a responsibility to give back. Emphasising the importance of recognising good work, he noted that visibility creates momentum, and momentum creates more good, while also commending the institution for its long-standing service-oriented mission.
The Special Jury Award, instituted in the name of Nazneen Abdulla Yenepoya, was conferred on Poonam Pardeshi for her outstanding advocacy that champions ability rather than disability. Accepting the award, Poonam expressed her deep gratitude to the School of Social Work and the Roshni Alumni Association for the recognition. She acknowledged the unwavering belief and support of her parents, stating that the award serves as a powerful encouragement to continue her work. She dedicated the honour to countless persons with disabilities and strongly emphasised that people with disabilities do not seek pity, but demand dignified access, equality and true inclusion. She articulated her vision of building an inclusive and egalitarian society where everyone can thrive without barriers.
The Community Catalyst Award was presented to Dr N Joshua Jayaseelan for his unwavering commitment to championing children at risk. Accepting the honour, Dr Jayaseelan shared that his journey in social work began in slum communities, where he learned the interconnected realities of poverty, dignity, faith and education. He identified education, faith and community action as the three pillars that continue to guide his life and work.
The Mind Matters Award was conferred on Dr Anish V Cherian for his contributions to mental health advocacy and community-based interventions. Dr Cherian shared that social work has always been an integral part of his life and reflected on the lack of access to mental health services at the community level. He spoke about beginning his work within communities, particularly in the area of suicide prevention, and stressed the urgent need to normalise conversations around mental health. He reminded the audience that the world needs empathy and collective support, calling for greater awareness and action in suicide prevention.
The Justice Trailblazer Award was presented to advocate Flavia Agnes for her pioneering contribution to justice for women. Accepting the award, she expressed humility and gratitude, acknowledging the unwavering support of her family. She reflected on her lifelong mission to increase awareness among women about breaking the cycle of violence. Transforming her own personal experiences into a larger social mission, she has worked tirelessly to provide justice through law by co-founding MAJLIS, a socio-legal organisation offering critical support to survivors of violence against women.
The Earth Guardian Award was conferred on Jeeth Milan Roche for his environmental leadership, including large-scale afforestation initiatives and the creation of multiple Miyawaki forests in Mangaluru, significantly contributing to the greening of the city. Accepting the award, Roche urged every individual to plant at least 175 trees to help restore ecological balance. He highlighted that the three basic necessities—air, water and food—have today become a luxury, and called upon society to invest in nature and to become the voice of the voiceless.
A souvenir was formally released during the occasion by the chief guest in the presence of distinguished alumni Bhim Rao, Dharma Prasad Rai and Dr Ronald, along with Anand D’Silva, president of the Roshni Alumni Association, Brian Fernandes, convener of the Roshni Impact Awards, and Prof Vida Sequeira, president of the institution.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Ravindranatha Shanbhag, chief guest of the ceremony, reflected on how his decision to once reject an award became a powerful source of inspiration and advocacy. He shared that the act of rejection was a conscious strategy to draw national attention to the long-pending Senior Citizen Bill, underscoring the need to stand firmly for justice. Recalling his work with victims of the endosulfan tragedy, he affirmed his belief that when one takes a principled stand against atrocities, recognition and change inevitably follow. He expressed deep gratitude to the institution for its continued collaboration with him in the collective struggle to uphold and protect human rights.
The guest of honour, Ahmed Kabeer, entrepreneur and founder of KTB Shop24, inspired the audience by sharing his journey of resilience and innovation, demonstrating how determination and creativity can overcome physical limitations.
Prof Vida Sequeira, president of the Institute of Social Service, appreciated the awardees for their inspiring contributions and commended the organising committee, faculty, students and invitees for making the event meaningful and successful.
The students of the college presented a series of beautiful cultural programmes, adding vibrancy and grace to the occasion.
Allen C A Pereira, chairman of the jury, outlined the key parameters for the awards, which included impact on individuals and communities, commitment and consistency over time, ability to engage meaningfully with communities, and testimonies from beneficiary communities. He also congratulated all the awardees for their exemplary contributions. Jury members Dr P K Shahjahan, Dr Rita Noronha, Prof L S Gandhi Doss and Dr Janardhan N were present on the occasion. The event was attended by Dr Sophia N. Fernandes, principal, Lydith Pinto and Rathna Pinto. The programme was compered by Dr Malini Hebbar, while Rathna Pinto formally welcomed the gathering and Lidith Pinto proposed the vote of thanks.
The Roshni Impact Awards 2025 reaffirm the institution’s belief that meaningful social change is driven by individuals who combine courage with compassion and action with integrity. As Roshni Nilaya continues its journey of service, the awards stand as a beacon to inspire future generations to work towards a just, inclusive and humane society.