Mahesh holds a Master’s degree in Social Work but his journey towards this has not been a smooth one. He completed his primary school education in his village but had to walk to the neighbouring village to complete his secondary school education. He dropped out of school after an unsuccessful attempt at clearing his 10th standard examinations and started to work to support his family instead. After 2 years, he decided to complete his schooling and went on to pursue his graduate and postgraduate studies. As a Programme Mentor directly implementing ECF’s Action for Equality programme with adolescent boys in Pune, he empowers boys to challenge gender norms and stand up to pressures of masculinity.

Mahesh spends his free time reading, watching historical shows, and loves to trek and travel.