Where science meets heart — Samvaad’s powerful beginning.
Radhika Poovayya, founder of Samvaad Institute and India’s first speech-language pathologist certified in ABA, has transformed speech therapy in India. Her visionary work blends education, therapy, and philanthropy to give countless children and adults a voice and a future—making her a true pioneer in holistic care.
In the bustling world of healthcare and education, it takes extraordinary vision, relentless passion, and a deep sense of purpose to build institutions that leave a lasting impact. One such trailblazer is Radhika Poovayya, the founder behind Samvaad Institute of Speech and Hearing, Samvaad Centres for Speech and ABA Therapy, and Samvaad Foundation. Her journey — from a bright student in a premier government college to a pioneering entrepreneur — is a testament to the power of perseverance and the profound difference one individual can make.
A Journey Rooted in Compassion
Born and raised in the picturesque district of Kodagu as the daughter of an army officer, Radhika grew up imbibing discipline, resilience, and a deep commitment to service. Her early love for children and a desire to blend the roles of a doctor and teacher led her to the field of speech-language pathology — a choice that would later transform countless lives.
After completing her Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from India’s premier All India Institute of Speech and Hearing in 1987, Radhika’s thirst for knowledge only grew stronger. In 2011, her passion for offering the best possible care to her clients pushed her to pursue a second Master’s degree — this time in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from the United States. In doing so, she became India’s first speech-language pathologist to also be a certified behavior analyst, bringing a revolutionary approach to the treatment of autism to Indian shores.
“Learning is my passion,” she says. “I’m always ready to do a new course if it helps me improve the communication skills of my clients.”
The Spark Behind Samvaad
The seeds for Samvaad were sown in 2002, when Radhika noticed a significant gap in India’s healthcare landscape. At the time, speech and language therapy services were largely confined to NGOs and hospitals. Private clinics offering specialized care were almost nonexistent.
While working in an organization where her role was largely supervisory, Radhika realized that she was missing out on the very thing she loved most — working directly with children. Observing a rising awareness among parents and an increasing demand for early professional help, she recognized an opportunity to fill the gap.
And so, Samvaad was born — a place where science, compassion, and expertise came together to offer children and adults a chance at a better future.
Expanding Horizons: Education and Philanthropy
Radhika’s entrepreneurial journey did not stop at clinical practice. In 2005, facing challenges in her husband’s export business, the couple decided to venture into education. With 18 years of experience under her belt and a deep understanding of the dire shortage of qualified professionals in the field, Radhika founded the Samvaad Institute of Speech and Hearing.
Starting a college was no easy feat. It required immense capital investment, which they secured through a bank loan and support from friends. The initial years were fraught with difficulties — a sharp decline in student enrollments after the first year, financial instability, and the constant pressure to keep the doors open.
“We barely had single-digit admissions for almost five years,” Radhika recalls. “There were moments when shutting down seemed tempting, but the students who trusted us deserved better.”
The resilience paid off. Over time, thanks to Samvaad’s unwavering commitment to quality education and strong professional reputation, student numbers began to grow.
Adding another feather to her cap, Radhika established the Samvaad Foundation in 2011. The Foundation’s mission was simple yet profound: to offer free speech therapy for stroke patients and subsidized therapy for children with hearing impairments, developmental delays, and autism. In 2024, a significant milestone was achieved when Rotary International awarded a ₹30 lakh grant to the Foundation, facilitating the creation of a state-of-the-art rehabilitation unit for stroke patients — a proud moment in Samvaad’s inspiring journey.
Pioneering a Unique Model of Care
What truly sets Samvaad apart is its innovative model of care, especially for children with autism. At most therapy centers, speech therapy and ABA therapy are handled separately by different therapists. But at Samvaad, Radhika has crafted a unique, integrated approach where a single therapist is trained to deliver both services seamlessly.
This synergy results in faster, more effective improvements for children, allowing them to make remarkable progress. Moreover, Samvaad places a strong emphasis on parental involvement, offering coaching and support to families so they can become active participants in their child’s development — a critical, often overlooked component of successful therapy.
“In most centres, parents are not allowed in therapy sessions ,” Radhika explains. “At Samvaad, we work with the parents, not just the child.”
Weathering the Storms
Running educational and therapeutic institutions comes with its share of storms — and Radhika has weathered many.
The initial struggle to build the college, the financial strain, and the collapse of demand during the COVID-19 pandemic were daunting. At times, survival itself became a question mark. Yet, with sheer grit, community support, and a relentless focus on the mission, Samvaad emerged stronger after each setback.
Faculty recruitment remains an ongoing challenge. “Good faculty are hard to find,” Radhika admits, “but I’ve been blessed with a committed team who shares my passion for making a difference.”
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
Radhika’s dreams for Samvaad are far from over. Over the next five years, she plans to move into a larger campus and expand Samvaad into a full-fledged allied health college offering multiple courses beyond speech and hearing.
With demand steadily rising and public awareness about developmental and communication disorders increasing, the future holds immense promise.
“We are not just building careers,” Radhika says. “We are building futures — for our students, for our clients, and for India.”
Final Thoughts
Radhika Poovayya’s story is more than just an entrepreneurial success. It is about commitment to a cause, resilience in adversity, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of care and education.
From a young girl in Kodagu dreaming of working with children to becoming a pioneering force in speech and hearing therapy in India, Radhika’s journey inspires not just professionals in her field, but anyone who believes in making a meaningful difference.
Her message is simple yet powerful: when passion meets perseverance, even the quietest voices can find their place in the world.
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