Rhea Nayudu
Founder @ StarMoms, Pune Chapter
Timeline
Academic - Bachelors' Degree in Commerce, Diploma in Graphics Design & Masters in Computer Applications. - Leadership Program from Landmark Worldwide.
Professional - Research analyst in Mumbai for a US based Investment Management Company. - Freelance web & graphics designer. - Executive Assistant to Founder of The Niche International - A Fashion Magazine
"Founder at StarMoms, Pune Chapter"
Founder Journey "Six years ago I founded StarMoms because I too was a mom of a neurodiverse child with special needs who felt completely lost and alone at many occasions. During the COVID era, a period of profound uncertainty, what started as small online group of 5-6 peer moms has now become a lifeline for hundreds of Moms sharing same challenges and goals.
In these six years, I have learned that support isn't just coffee and sympathy — it's acknowleging each others' breakdowns and breakthroughs, sharing effective parenting methods and personal experience to deal with meltdowns and struggles faced in day to day activities. We have celebrated, grieved, and created a sense of belonging towards each member of the StarMoms community.
I am proud that something that started with a few fellow Mommies is now a lifeline and significant aid for hundreds scattered across the city. And after 6 years, I know the journey with our kids isn't easy but the strength we find together makes it a little comforting and provides hope for a positive transformation in lives of our children and in our parenting journey."
Timeline
Academic - Bachelors' Degree in Commerce, Diploma in Graphics Design & Masters in Computer Applications. - Leadership Program from Landmark Worldwide.
Professional - Research analyst in Mumbai for a US based Investment Management Company. - Freelance web & graphics designer. - Executive Assistant to Founder of The Niche International - A Fashion Magazine
Top Advice
Accept and celebrate your child's abilities. Identify his/her strength and focus on that. Build your A team early - family, therapy centre, school staff, househelp, society friends. Seek support from peer group, online forums and other special needs parents. Therapy for youself isn't selfish. Take time out for yourself. Pursue your interests. It makes a big difference. If you are happy, your child will be happy. Trust me, it works!
Wish I Knew Earlier
The biggest challenge for an online support group is maintaining privacy and misinformation risk.