Early Life
Deepa Mohanraj is an educator, social entrepreneur, and advocate for neurodiverse children whose life journey has been deeply shaped by personal experience and resilience. Born with a strong sense of compassion and empathy, she pursued higher education in psychology and later completed her M.Sc. in Psychology. However, the defining turning point in her life came after the birth of her daughter, Richee, in 2002.
Soon after birth, Richee was diagnosed with craniosynostosis, a rare medical condition in which the skull bones fuse prematurely, affecting brain growth and development. The diagnosis brought emotional challenges, uncertainty, and depression into Deepa’s life. During one of the most difficult moments, while her daughter underwent surgery, Deepa discovered a renewed sense of purpose and strength through faith and hope. She later described this period as the beginning of her mission to support children with special needs and their families.
Career
Inspired by her daughter’s journey, Deepa founded Kaumaram Prashanthi Academy in 2006 under the Kaumaram Prashanthi Trust. The institution began as a small initiative with only three children, one therapist, and one helper. Over the years, it evolved into one of the leading institutions for neurodiverse and differently abled children in the region.
Located in Saravanampatti, Coimbatore, the academy today spans a 20,000 square feet campus spread across 60 cents of land and supports more than 300 students with the help of 90 multidisciplinary staff members. The institution offers occupational therapy, vocational training, computer education, bakery and cooking units, music sessions, sports activities, and adventure-based learning programs designed to encourage independence and skill development among children.
In 2010, the academy expanded to Tirupur and later established additional centres in Saibaba Colony and Singanallur. In 2023, Deepa launched YASYA, a doorstep intervention initiative aimed at reaching differently abled individuals within their homes and communities. Her vision further expanded through the “What After Us” project, focused on ensuring safe and independent living for neurodiverse adults after parental care.
In 2024, the Tamil Nadu Government selected Kaumaram Prashanthi Academy as a CSP provider under the World Bank-funded TN RIGHTS Project, allowing the institution to support the neurodiverse community across Coimbatore district.
Apart from her work at the academy, Deepa serves as a Board Member of the Institutional Review Board at Ganga Hospital and was elected President of Special Olympics Bharat for the Coimbatore Zone.
Personal Life
Deepa Mohanraj’s personal life remains closely connected to her mission of inclusion and empowerment. Her daughter Richee continues to be the inspiration behind her work and achievements. What began as a mother’s effort to support her child gradually transformed into a lifelong commitment to helping hundreds of families facing similar challenges.
To strengthen her expertise in the field, she pursued specialised certifications including PECS Trainer, FIE Trainer, Certified Art Based Therapist, and Dance and Movement Therapy Facilitator. Her life reflects the belief that adversity can be transformed into purpose through determination and compassion.
Achievements and Recognition
Deepa’s contribution to special education and social service has earned her widespread recognition. She has received several prestigious honours including the 100 Inspiring Women 2023 Award, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Education Excellence Award, National Mahila Rathna Gold Medal, Women of Impact Award, Wonder Woman Award, Soulmates Award, Aatma Navaratna Award, and the Indian Award for Social Service.
She has also been invited as a TEDx Speaker, speaker at CSR Fest 2023, participant at the South India’s Iconic Women Summit, and Special Invitee at the CII Nilgiris Economic Dialogue 2025.
Under her leadership, Kaumaram Prashanthi Academy has successfully organised inclusive initiatives such as INQ-FEST, Special Olympics Bharat Training Camps, and Special Walkathons, creating awareness and support for neurodiverse communities across India.
Through compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication, Deepa Mohanraj continues to transform lives and redefine inclusive education in India.
