BOSTON — Saheli, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting South Asian and Arab women and families affected by domestic and gender-based violence, has announced the appointment of Deepali Gulati as its new Executive Director, effective August 1, 2025.
The unanimous decision was made by Saheli’s Board of Directors during its July board meeting, following a strong presentation by Gulati outlining her vision and reporting structures for the year ahead.
“Deepali has taken projects that needed to be streamlined for our auditors. Her key achievements are setting up processes, working with DPH, Paychecks, Federal grants, working with Libby, our Grant writer while answerable to the Boards at every step of the way plus the grants we have acquired under her leadership are noteworthy,” said Saheli President Neelam Wali in a email.
Gulati first joined Saheli in 2020 and has been instrumental in shaping key survivor-focused programs including immigration advocacy, legal support, housing stabilization, and economic empowerment. Her efforts have helped hundreds of individuals move toward safety, dignity, and independence.
“I joined Saheli because its mission speaks to my heart — to stand beside survivors as they reclaim safety, dignity, and hope,” said Gulati. “As a South Asian woman, I understand the cultural and community barriers many survivors face. My purpose is to help break those barriers with compassion and trust.”
Over the past six months, Gulati has led Saheli as interim Executive Director with what board members describe as “clarity and purpose.” Under her leadership, the organization received a major boost with the awarding of the Cummings Foundation grant, a milestone achievement that will help sustain and expand services.
Gulati also spearheaded the growth of Saheli’s Outreach and Prevention initiatives, forged new partnerships with schools and universities, and founded the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Walk, which has become a powerful community tradition for awareness and healing.
“I encourage all the staff members to welcome Deepali as the new ED and share your ideas and vision at your staff and leadership meetings. Only way Saheli can move forward is with all your cooperation… You all are an integral part of Saheli’s success. Thank you,” added Wali.
Gulati brings a rich background to the role. She holds a Nonprofit Management Certificate from Harvard Extension School, a Master’s in Communications from the University of Missouri, and a Bachelor’s degree from Delhi University. Her leadership style combines strategic insight with deep empathy and cultural awareness.
“Saheli is more than a service provider — it’s a community,” Gulati said. “My goal is to foster a culture where every survivor feels seen and supported, and every team member feels empowered to do their best work. Together, we will continue to put survivors at the heart of all we do.”
To learn more about Saheli or to get involved, visit www.saheliboston.org.
