01/08/2026
It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news that Shalini Somayaji, Sakhi’s fifth Executive Director, passed away on January 4, 2026, after a courageous and fearless battle with cancer. She spent her final days at home, surrounded by her family.
To all who had the privilege of knowing Shalini, she will be remembered for her gentle presence, deep warmth, and unwavering kindness. Her capacity for care—for leaders, colleagues, and community—was extraordinary. She brought thoughtfulness and intention to every relationship, leaving people feeling seen, grounded, and valued.
Shalini embodied the very essence of leadership. She gave generously of herself and led with quiet strength, resilience, and confidence. Many described her as Sakhi’s rock—a steady force during moments of uncertainty. Her commitment to justice, paired with her belief in self-care and leadership development, helped shape a culture at Sakhi that centers care for staff as essential to serving survivors with integrity and compassion. Her influence remains deeply woven into who we are as an organization.
Serving first as Deputy Director and later as Executive Director, Shalini guided Sakhi through a period of profound transition. Her steady leadership was instrumental in stabilizing and rebuilding the organization we know today. Without her vision and dedication, Sakhi would not be what it is now.
There is no making sense of this loss. Her passing feels immeasurable and deeply unfair, and we grieve the loss of someone so generous, so grounding, and taken far too soon.
Shalini’s legacy lives on at Sakhi each day—in our values, our culture, and our continued commitment to care and justice. We hold her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched in our thoughts and prayers. May her memory be a blessing, and may her soul rest in peace.
