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We are shining light on a remarkable woman championing UN SDG Goal #6 – Clean Water & Sanitation. 

Meet Ms. Divya Yachamaneni, CEO of Naandi Community Water Services (NCWS), an organization dedicated to bringing safe drinking water to underserved communities across India.

Divya’s journey began with a profound realization – access to clean water  is a fundamental human right, yet millions in India lack this basic necessity. Armed with an MBA from IIM Kozhikode and a drive for social impact, she joined NCWS, determined to uplift those grappling with water scarcity and contamination.

Under Divya’s leadership, NCWS has emerged as one of India’s largest community-based water solution providers, reaching over 650 communities across 7 states and impacting over 850,000 lives.

Their mission is simple yet powerful:

“To save lives by providing underserved communities access to safe drinking water in a sustainable manner.”

NCWS’s approach is multifaceted, addressing both the supply and awareness challenges. They establish decentralized water filtration units in areas plagued by chemical and microbial contamination. Simultaneously, they spearhead education initiatives on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), empowering communities with knowledge for healthier lives.

But Divya’s impact extends far beyond mere numbers. She has strengthened NCWS’s rural brand “iPure,” underlying quality, community, and #sustainability. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, her team ensured 30,000 government school children had daily access to safe water, unwavering in their commitment.

Moreover, Divya has played a pivotal role in Naandi Foundation’s diverse programs, from sustainable livelihoods for rural farmers to education for the urban poor. Her ability to drive large-scale social initiatives is unparalleled.

Under her guidance, NCWS has launched iQuench, India’s first social packaged drinking water brand, catering to urban consumers while raising awareness about rural water challenges. This innovative model harmonizes business objectives with social impact, pioneering a sustainable path forward.

Divya’s achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Stanford Seed Transformation Program. Yet, her true reward lies in the countless lives she has touched, one drop of clean water at a time.

Ms. Divya Yachamaneni’s journey reminds us that access to safe water is not just a necessity; it’s a fundamental human right.