Leading With Purpose: Yamini Jaipuria’s Vision Transforms Education and Pet Care in India

At Cosmo Foundation, Jaipuria’s vision has led to significant strides in education and community development. The Foundation supports over 13,500 rural students annually across 52 schools and 142 villages, with a focus on digital and foundational literacy. This includes the Computer Operation & Digital Skill Building program, which serves 8,000 students every year through 25 computer labs, aligning with India’s digital transformation goals. The Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Program has contributed to improved school enrollment, retention, and accelerated learning outcomes, as outlined in India’s National Education Policy 2020. Since 2008, Cosmo Foundation has positively impacted over 700,000 lives through initiatives in education, environment, women’s empowerment, and crisis support.

Jaipuria’s commitment to gender parity is evident in the Foundation’s statistics: 78% of change-makers and educators at the grassroots are women, while 49% of students supported by the Foundation are female and pursuing careers in diverse professions. This focus on empowering women reflects her belief in the transformative power of women’s leadership in shaping communities.

In addition to education, Jaipuria’s passion for environmental sustainability has led to impactful initiatives. She has fostered agroforestry projects with 115 farmers across 19 villages in Gujarat and Maharashtra, achieving a remarkable 90% survival rate for 40,000 fruit saplings. Cosmo Foundation has also established urban forests and biodiversity hubs, including an Urban Miyawaki Forest at the Army Equestrian Centre and Aahwan Center in New Delhi, BSF campuses in Gudgav, and a biodiversity hub with the Indian Army at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). These efforts involve planting over 71,000 saplings and nurturing ecosystems. Furthermore, the Foundation promotes eco-friendly practices like rainwater harvesting and solar energy installation in public places, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Jaipuria’s innovative approach to pet care showcases her versatility as a leader. Zigly, born from her lifelong love for animals, has redefined the pet care industry in India. “From my early bonds with Lucky, my Shetland pony, to creating a comprehensive pet care ecosystem through Zigly, the journey has been about translating passion into impact,” Jaipuria reflects. Amidst rising urban pet abandonment—marked by a 50% increase in cases over the past five years—Jaipuria’s leadership has been instrumental in promoting responsible pet parenthood. Through Zigly Foundation and Petsfamilia, she has championed initiatives addressing pet abandonment and animal welfare while creating opportunities for women in the pet care sector.

“Women bring unique perspectives and empathy to leadership roles,” Jaipuria emphasizes, reflecting her commitment to gender-inclusive leadership. Initiatives like ‘Umeed Ki Kiran’—a soft skill and employability skill training program—empower rural girls with skills for financial independence. The Foundation’s Auto Electrical & EV Assembly Technician Course for Girls exemplifies this approach, equipping young women with skills for economic empowerment. ‘Nari Ki Savari’—a two and four-wheeler driving course—has built confidence and identity among women. Similarly, Zigly’s retail stores showcase women professionals providing specialized pet care services, breaking traditional industry barriers.

Jaipuria’s leadership journey has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Sewa Bhushan Award for her contributions to social development. Her dual leadership role offers a compelling model of how business acumen and social responsibility can create lasting impact. As she looks ahead, Jaipuria envisions expanding both Foundations’ impact, focusing on sustainable, positive change. “Whether it’s digital literacy education for marginalized children and youth or pet welfare, our goal remains consistent—creating sustainable, positive change in communities,” she says.

As India celebrates Women’s Day, Yamini Jaipuria’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of women’s leadership in both corporate and social sectors. Her work demonstrates how vision, empathy, and innovation can come together to address society’s pressing challenges while creating opportunities for others to grow and succeed, promoting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world through systemic initiatives.

(A marketing initiative by Open Avenues)

Cosmo FoundationeducationManaging TrusteePet careYamini JaipuriaZigly