How Michelle Poonawalla Builds Impact Through Generational Philanthropy

It is that time of the year again: Christmas, the season of giving, when we are all reminded of the joy that comes from bringing a smile to someone's face. Yet, some people embody this spirit all year round. This Christmas, Robb Report India celebrates these extraordinary givers, the philanthropists who pour their heart and soul into uplifting others.

For Michelle Poonawalla, director of the Poonawalla Group, giving back to society has been central to her life. The artist and businessperson has been passionate about nurturing the young, supporting the elderly, and creating environments that elevate communities—whether through education, healthcare, or the beautification of our public spaces.

In fact, even as a family, the Poonawallas have a long-standing legacy of philanthropy, particularly in education and healthcare for the underprivileged. Michelle is closely involved in initiatives across schools, hospitals, city development, leprosy rehabilitation, and public gardens: “Our philanthropic commitment is reflected through the work of the Yohan Poonawalla Foundation, under which we have championed education, healthcare, heritage restoration, public spaces, and community development. Flagship initiatives include the Soli Poonawalla School, scholarships for deserving students, beautification of gardens around the city (like the South Main Road in Koregaon Park, Pune) and significant restoration projects such as the JJ Agiary and the Turf Club House in Pune,” she shares.

Robb Report India (RRI): What does the word ‘giver’ mean to you?

Michelle Poonawalla (MP): To me, a giver is someone who leads with empathy. It is someone who recognises that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to change a life and the world. Giving is not transactional; it is a way of being. A giver nurtures hope, fosters dignity, and spreads compassion in ways that resonate far beyond the moment.

RRI: Do you remember the first moment in your life that sparked your instinct to give?

MP: I grew up in a family where kindness was a daily practice—be it giving our toys or milk and biscuits to the children of the nearby fisher village in Marve or attending a fair for persons with special needs. My maternal grandmother played a profound role. We also used to sell handmade greeting cards and gifting bags during the summer holidays, wherein the money collected was used for charity. We also donated hearing aids to the underprivileged. Accompanying my grandmother on her charitable visits showed me what it means to serve with humility and sincerity. She taught me to always remember and support the underprivileged and to use whatever we had—be it time, skills, or resources—to help others.

RRI: How has your approach as a philanthropist evolved through the years?

MP: Over the years, my approach to philanthropy has grown from instinctive acts of kindness to a more thoughtful, structured, and long-term commitment. I’ve learned that meaningful change requires consistency, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the communities one aims to support. Today, I focus on initiatives where I can contribute not just resources, but also strategic guidance. I believe in addressing both immediate needs and creating sustainable impact.

RRI: Do you think giving has changed in India?

MP: Profoundly. India’s philanthropic landscape has become more dynamic and purpose driven. Giving is not limited to traditional charity; it now encompasses strategic interventions and measurable outcomes. There is a growing sense of collective responsibility, wherein philanthropy is also seen as a meaningful way to participate in nation-building.

RRI: Which causes feel closest to your heart and why?

MP: I actively support organisations, including Breakthrough, UNICEF, and the Poona District Leprosy Committee. Yohan [her husband] and I are strong advocates for youth and sports development. Our support of the MMA India National Federation has empowered young athletes to compete on global platforms, while our investments in motorsport have helped nurture emerging talent such as Lebanese karting prodigy Mohammed Mneimneh.

Closer home, we have transformed Mumbai’s CJ Club into a professional multisport complex, creating a space that fosters grassroots talent and encourages young people to pursue their potential. These causes resonate deeply with me because they combine compassion with empowerment.

RRI: What has philanthropy taught you?

MP: Philanthropy has taught me that true giving is as transformative for the giver as it is for the receiver. It has shown me the value of humility, the strength of collective effort, and the extraordinary impact that small, consistent acts can create over time. It has reinforced my belief that compassion is a powerful force; one that can heal, empower, and inspire.

RRI: What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

MP: I hope to leave behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, and purposeful impact; a legacy that encourages others to use their gifts to uplift society. I want my work to inspire future generations to dream boldly, act generously, and create meaningful change.