At the fifth edition of the Financial Express and Yuva Unstoppable initiative inspiring students to
learn from leaders and industry stalwarts, Shailesh Haribhakti, philanthropist and Independent &
Non-Executive Director at Adani Total Gas Ltd, emphasized the critical need for digital classrooms for every child in India. Speaking at an event hosted at the Shirodkar High School, Mumbai, which had seen upgradation of its facilities by Amitabh Shah-led Yuva Unstoppable, Haribhakti interacted with students and underscored the transformative power of digital education in today’s learning
environment.

Responding to a rapid-fire question, Haribhakti passionately stated, “I would like every child to have a digital classroom experience in India. This must be available to every child in India. Let us pray and hope Yuva Unstoppable accomplishes that”. Excerpts from his conversation with Amitabh Shah – Founder & Chief Inspiration Officer of Yuva Unstoppable are highlighted below:

Mother as an Inspiration

When asked about his mother by Amitabh Shah, Haribhakti shared heartfelt memories, noting, “My
mother passed away more than 27 years ago. But she is like a fresh memory. Three things that she always exemplified were – keep learning, keep giving, and being a good human being”

Philanthropic Motto in Life

In discussing his philanthropic philosophy with Amitabh Shah, Haribhakti stressed the importance of innovation and inclusivity. “Innovate to zero!” he declared, adding, “Don’t leave anybody behind.” He emphasized that the innovation started by Yuva Unstoppable must reach every student in the country, stating, “For me, the most important thing in philanthropy is that this innovation must reach out to every student in this country. That is where all of us need to strive towards.”

Concerns About Climate Change

Haribhakti expressed deep concern about climate change, urging every child to take small pledges that collectively could lead to significant impact. “Every child should take a small pledge… ‘we will switch off the lights when we leave the room, ‘we will not drink water from plastic as far as possible’,” he emphasized, highlighting that such individual actions could grow into a large movement.

Companies Working Towards Sustainability

When quizzed by Amitabh Shah about companies excelling in sustainability, Haribhakti cited ACC and TVS Motors. Reflecting on ACC’s impact, he said, “We empowered a whole town to transform itself. The women of the town took it upon themselves to make that town clean, starting with garbage collection and separation.” He also recounted TVS Motors’ commitment to sustainability, noting the company’s pride in providing daily meals for 17,000 workers and maintaining a water body that attracts rare birds.

Instilling Values of Compassion, Sustainability, and Peace

Highlighting the importance of instilling values of compassion, sustainability, and peace in children, Haribhakti asserted, “It has to be a self-ignited passion in every human being. You can set yourself up as an example and have the conversation.” He also shared his love for the sitar, revealing that he would have pursued it professionally if not for his current career.

Following the footsteps of notable figures like Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, BK Sister Shivani of the Brahma Kumari spiritual movement, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath and co-founder & former CEO of Infosys – S D Shibulal, Haribhakti’s participation in this edition of Yuva Unstoppable further cemented the initiative’s commitment to creating a brighter, more sustainable future for India’s children.