The Trans Café Opens in Pune: Fostering Skills, Employment, and Inclusion
Kharadi, 6th October 2025: In a significant step towards fostering inclusion and empowering the transgender community, Deutsche Bank has collaborated with GAURAV, a non-profit Community-Based Organisation (CBO), to launch The Trans Café near City Vista in Kharadi, Pune. This initiative, part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) education programme, aims to enhance the skills and competencies of transgender individuals in a safe and inclusive environment.
The Trans Café will provide members of the transgender community with opportunities to develop vocational and leadership skills while offering meaningful employment. The café is also set to contribute to the local economy and serve meals to underserved communities, embedding itself into Pune’s social and economic fabric.
“We are proud to support the launch of the Trans Café in Pune as part of our continued commitment to building stronger communities,” said Ruchi Khemka, Head – CSR, Deutsche Bank Group, India. “This initiative demonstrates how partnerships can drive social change, uplift marginalised communities, and create inclusive opportunities for all. By offering training, employment, and community engagement, the Trans Café is not only changing lives but also challenging societal norms.”
The Pune café will serve as a platform for broader community outreach, collaborating with local businesses and corporates to offer curated lunch deals and enhance visibility. These partnerships aim to establish the café as a vibrant part of the city’s community landscape.
“We are proud to extend the success of the Trans Café model from Mumbai to Pune through this meaningful collaboration with Deutsche Bank,” said Kumar Shetty, President – GAURAV. “The café provides not just on-the-job training, but dignity, visibility, and a sense of belonging for transgender individuals. With Deutsche Bank’s support, we are advancing towards a more inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
