Kavita has always been drawn to people. Long before she stepped into her role as Clinical Director, she knew she wanted to work alongside others in meaningful ways.
Her journey began with a deep commitment to working with vulnerable populations, guided by a strong sense of purpose that continues to shape her work today.
After completing her BA, she pursued a Master’s in Social Work at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, India’s premier social science research institute, specializing in Medical and Psychiatric Social Work.
Life took a different turn when she moved to Atlanta, Georgia, while her husband pursued his PhD at Emory University. There she began working in an integrated daycare setting, an experience that would shape her career in unexpected and meaningful ways.
The center brought together children with diverse needs, alongside occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and other specialists. Although she didn’t know much about autism at the time, she found herself drawn to the work, building relationships with children, connecting with families, and collaborating with other professionals. It was here that her interest in supporting children with diverse needs began to take root.
A Long Journey of Learning
Kavita moved to British Columbia in 2003 and joined posAbilities (then called Mainstream Association for Proactive Community Living) in 2004 as a behaviour consultant. Her commitment to learning led her to pursue a Master’s in Special Education at the University of British Columbia in 2010 and, soon after, to become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA).
As she describes it, the path was a long one. Returning to school while working full-time and raising two young children was not easy. She credits the support of her husband and children for helping make it possible. Earning her BCBA certification remains a milestone she is deeply proud of, not only for what it represents professionally, but for the persistence and dedication it took to get there.
Growing With Laurel Supports
After years of growing alongside the organization, Kavita stepped into the role of Clinical Director in 2014.
What has remained constant throughout her journey is her connection to families. “I’ve always loved meeting families,” she says. “My social work background really supported that, understanding people’s experiences, their struggles, and what matters to them.”
Today, she plays a key role in strengthening programs and supporting teams, while responding to emerging needs across communities. She is passionate about the science of behaviour, committed to closing gaps between policy and practice, and values collaboration with community partners.
Under her leadership, Laurel Supports has experienced significant growth and transformation. The organization expanded beyond the Lower Mainland into the Okanagan and Vancouver Island, and broadened its scope to ensure support remains responsive to all individuals across the lifespan. She is particularly proud of initiatives that respond directly to gaps in service. Link! Safety, Relationships and Sexuality is an adapted sexual health education program that was developed to address a critical and often overlooked need. Similarly, the PEERS social skills program reflects a commitment to evidence-based supports that foster meaningful connections.
For Kavita, this work continues to be deeply rewarding.
Learning Across Communities
Kavita’s work extends beyond Canada, shaped by opportunities to connect, learn, and contribute across diverse communities. She has been an active member of the Indo-Canadian Autism Network for six years, offering virtual trainings to teams in India, presenting at conferences, and contributing to complex case discussions.
In January 2026, she was invited to deliver a pre-conference workshop at the 3rd Annual Global Autism Summit in India, Autism in the Global South: Culture, Community, and Neurodiversity.
Throughout the conference, Kavita noticed a consistent and powerful theme: a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families, even in the face of limited resources. Organizations approached challenges with creativity and collaboration, finding ways to bring people together, reduce isolation, and extend support as far as possible. She found it deeply inspiring.
For Kavita, the experience reinforced a broader perspective. “There are so many little things you take away from these conversations,” she reflects. “You realize we’re not alone in this. Across the world, people are navigating similar challenges, and there’s so much we can learn from one another.”
Grounded in Values and Everyday Joy
Kavita carries a deep sense of gratitude towards the many mentors who have shaped her journey. Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in her have had a lasting impact, both professionally and personally.
At the heart of that inspiration are her parents, who have influenced her the most. Their values continue to guide how she shows up in her work and in her relationships. She often reflects on one of her father’s favourite quotes: “The most comfortable pillow is a clear conscience.” It serves as a guiding principle in her life, a quiet reminder to move through the world with honesty, care, and intention.
Outside of work, Kavita finds balance in both creativity and time spent outdoors. She enjoys connecting with friends, going for walks and bike rides, and exploring watercolor painting. At home, there’s also a steady dose of humour and joy, thanks to her two cats, who occasionally make guest appearances during her workday and keep things interesting behind the scenes.
Looking Ahead
Kavita’s journey is one of steady growth, shaped by curiosity and care, along with a deep commitment to people. From her early days in social work to her leadership today, one thing remains clear: her work is rooted in connection. And that continues to guide not only how she leads, but how Laurel Supports continues to grow.