A Watchtower for Women’s Rights.

150 Years

Since 1875, we have remained resilient, relevant and responsive. We celebrate a century and a half not just as a mark of longevity, but as a testament to God’s faithfulness and our steadfast commitment to serve one another.

Celebrating

through Music and Drama
'Journey of A Seed of Faith'

The Musical

Staged on 18th September 2025, this evocative journey captured 150 years of history through music, dance and drama. Written and directed by Ms. Padma Damodaran, daughter of a former YWCA member, adding a deeply personal touch to the performance. The music and lyrics were composed by Mr. Asif Ali Beg, whose creative contribution brought depth and vibrancy to the narrative.

Inclusive Spirit

The production featured 36 performers - students, members, staff and community participants ranging in age from 7 to 77 years.

Commemorative Keepsakes

Coffee Table Book

The year was further marked by the launch of a commemorative Coffee Table Book and a 150th Anniversary Souvenir, documenting the personal testimonies and milestones of our ministries.

Courageous Leadership

Across Generations.

At the YWCA of Bombay, we focus on creating an environment that supports you as a whole person. We make three big promises to our team:

The Founder

Eliza McRitchie, who began the journey in 1875 with a focus on safe lodging and fellowship.

The Institution Builders

Achamma John Mathai: Key in establishing the Achamma Bhavan hostel.
Eunice Anchees: Served for nearly 29 years, making the association financially sound and leading major developments like DLH and ABH.

The Reformers

Grace Alexander: Integrated our services by forming the Women’s Development Unit (WDU) in 1988.
Gulobi Fernandes: Strengthened governance through administrative reforms and policy reviews.

The Evolution

of Our Initiatives

Education &
Skill-Building

What began as a Commercial School for shorthand and typing has evolved into Asha Kiran Complex skill building hub and Y-CASP job-readiness training programme. We offer
state-certified vocational training in bakery, nursing, beautician and tailoring to bridge the modern skill gap.

Livelihoods &
Self-Reliance

From a simple Employment Bureau to a network of
Self-Help Groups (SHGs), we have benefited thousands of women through microcredit and entrepreneurship.

Protection & Shelter

Expanding on our 150-year history of residential care, we now operate Ashray and Umeed Shelter Homes in partnership with BMC to support women facing homelessness or abuse.

Youth &
Senior Wellness

Our Women's Development Unit (WDU) and Participation and Involvement of Youth in Action (PIYA) wings nurture leadership in young women, while our Senior Citizen programmes focus on yoga, health screenings and social engagement.

More Than Advocacy

A Lived Reality

We view our team as our greatest asset and provide the tools needed for you to thrive in the social sector.

The Night Train Campaign

To advocate for separate women's compartments in Mumbai’s local trains, YWCA members travelled on night trains themselves to demonstrate the urgent need for safe spaces.

Rural Outreach

Beyond the city, our Chapewadi Mission and partnership with the Young Soul Foundation bring prayer, care and service to underprivileged children and rural areas.

Global Solidarity

As part of the World YWCA movement, we work toward "Goal 2035," transforming power structures to create a world free of violence and full of gender equity.

A Legacy Honoured.

Our sustained commitment to social reform and women’s empowerment has been recognized by prestigious state and community awards:

Kusumtai Chaudhary Mukti Award
(2005)

Kranti Jyoti Savitribai Phule Award
(2017–18)

Women

WHO SHAPED THE YWCA

Standing Firmly on

Our Foundation

As we look ahead with renewed determination and hope, we invite you to be a part of our future milestones.

1875 – 2025
By Love, Serve One Another

A century and a half of serving Mumbai’s women with love. Join us as we celebrate our journey from a small prayer circle to a watchtower for change.