OUR STORY

How It All Began: A Life-Changing Encounter –

The foundation of Samphia is deeply intertwined with the journey of Dr. Shruti More, whose life took an unexpected turn in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh.

Born and raised in Mumbai, Shruti was an ambitious young woman with a stellar academic record.

She earned her Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from the prestigious Seth G.S Medical College and KEM Hospital, with plans to further her education in the United States. She envisioned a future filled with opportunities in world-class institutions, cutting-edge research, and a promising career abroad.

But fate had other plans.

During a cycling expedition in Himachal Pradesh, Shruti encountered a 13-year-old girl named Sonali. Something about Sonali drew her in—a quiet resilience despite her evident struggles. As Shruti got closer, she realized that Sonali had Cerebral Palsy. Even more heartbreaking was the social isolation she faced. Her family, unaware of how to care for her, had confined her due to stigma and lack of understanding.

That moment shattered something inside Shruti.

She couldn’t shake off what she had witnessed—the helplessness of the child, the fear in her mother’s eyes, the invisible barriers placed by society. For the first time, Shruti saw privilege and disparity collide. She knew she had two choices: continue on her planned path to the U.S. or step into the unknown and become the voice for children like Sonali.

She chose the latter.

In a matter of months, she left everything behind—her city life, her career aspirations, her dreams of studying abroad—and moved to Kullu. She joined Handimachal, an NGO working with children with disabilities, as an Occupational Therapist, determined to transform the lives of children society had forgotten.

Building a Movement: From Therapist to Leader –

What began as a single act of compassion soon evolved into a mission to reform disability care in the valley. Over seven years at Handimachal, Shruti took on leadership roles, driving program innovations, outreach initiatives, and community engagement. Her exceptional leadership saw her rise to the position of Executive Head, where she shaped policies and expanded impact.

Her groundbreaking work didn’t go unnoticed. She was invited to present at key international summits, including the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine Annual Meetings, showcasing her expertise on inclusive therapy models for children with disabilities in rural India.

Her dedication earned her the Young Connectors of the Future Fellowship by the Swedish Institute, a prestigious recognition for emerging global leaders creating social impact. She was also honored with the International Women’s Day Award by the Ministry of Women and Child Development for her exemplary service in Kullu District.

But even with all the recognition, Shruti knew there was more work to be done.

She had seen firsthand how children with disabilities in rural Himachal Pradesh were still denied access to education, healthcare, and social inclusion. She realized that only a holistic, community-driven approach could bring about real change.

And thus, Samphia Foundation was born.

The Birth of Samphia Foundation

In 2019, Shruti co-founded Samphia Foundation along with Rekha Thakur, a passionate physiotherapist and a native of Kullu. Together, they envisioned a world where children with disabilities are not just treated, but truly included—in schools, in communities, in everyday life.

While Shruti brought her global perspective, strategic vision, and expertise in disability care, Rekha contributed her deep cultural understanding and strong grassroots connections. Together, they built Samphia with one powerful goal:

To create an inclusive society where ability is not defined by limitations, but by opportunities.
To reach the remotest villages of Himachal Pradesh, bringing therapy, education, and empowerment to children with disabilities.
To ensure that no child, regardless of their abilities, is ever left behind.

A Future of Possibilities

What started as a chance encounter on a mountain trail has now become a life-changing movement for hundreds of children and their families. Dr. Shruti More’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion, courage, and conviction—the belief that a single decision, a single moment of empathy, can change lives forever.

At Samphia Foundation, we continue to build on this legacy, creating a world where every child, no matter their ability, has the chance to dream, thrive, and belong.