Team Vadaanya
A collective movement of dedicated volunteers, mentors, and leadership empowering government school students across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Driven by Purpose, Powered by Volunteers
At Vadaanya Janaa Society, our strength lies in a united community of professionals, educators, and youth who serve entirely out of passion. Every volunteer, mentor, and regional coordinator contributes their time, skills, and energy without receiving any monetary compensation or financial remuneration.
By keeping our operational model purely voluntary, we ensure that every resource directly benefits deserving students from underprivileged backgrounds. Together, our team works hand in hand to conduct talent tests, provide scholarships, distribute digital learning tools, and mentor young minds toward higher education and self-reliance.
Meet the Founder
Ashok Padapati is an Engineering graduate from SASTRA University with over 16 years of experience in the IT industry. He currently works in a Quality Assurance leadership role, bringing technical expertise and team guidance to Vadaanya.
Growing up in Kothacheruvu, Andhra Pradesh, Ashok developed a strong passion for education and social entrepreneurship. In 2010, alongside a dedicated founding group of friends who pledged 0.5% of their monthly salaries, he established Vadaanya to support deserving students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
For over 15 years, Ashok has guided Vadaanya as part of a collective team effort. Working closely with volunteers, mentors, and regional coordinators, the entire Vadaanya team unites to provide scholarships, talent development, and financial assistance to government school students.
THE IDEA, 0.5% Can Change a Life
Vadaanya started in 2010 with a small group of friends who decided to contribute 0.5% of their monthly salary to support students in need. There was no office or staff, just a group of people who wanted to help students.
Fifteen years later, the same 0.5% model remains the foundation of Vadaanya. Engineers, teachers, government officers, and other professionals contribute a small part of their income and volunteer their time.
Many students once supported by Vadaanya are now giving back and helping others. Together, small contributions have helped Vadaanya support thousands of students.
Taking Rural Talent to the World
Ashok also works as a student mentor with the International Startup Foundation (ISF), supporting its Junicorn programme for young, first-time founders.
He mentors students from rural backgrounds, helping them develop their business ideas and prepare pitch decks. In May 2025, he travelled with the batch to the USA, where the students presented their ideas at Texas State University.
