Team Members

Mr. S. Meerasa

Meerasa, a native of Jameelabad near Pulicat Lake, has been involved in its protection and conservation for nearly three decades. Recognised as National Wetland Champion 2022 by MoEFCC, Government of India, and State Green Champion 2023 by the Tamil Nadu Government. Member, DCZMA Tiruvallur (2024–2027).

He successfully planned and implemented multi-stakeholder initiatives across Pulicat, and formed 450 SHGs in 1,000 villages across 17 panchayats through Tamil Nadu Women Development Corporation since 2000.

• Founder — Mangrove Foundation of India (MFI)
• Director — Agroforestry & Land Restoration, Verdax New Energy Pvt. Ltd.
• Project Coordinator — CReNIEO & Pulicat National Matri. School since 1999
• Founder — Tiruvallur District Fishermen Welfare Association (2007)
• Mangrove Technical Consultant — Damooga Foundation
• Technical Lead — Project Alaiyathi, a million mangrove initiative

Mr. Abdul Rahman M

An experienced entrepreneur who has operated at national and international level. An active philanthropist who has supported numerous social causes through his association with the Rotary Club.

He is passionate about encouraging and empowering the next generation of Indian youth through career guidance, public speaking, and skill development workshops.

Dr. Aswathy Rajan

Former scientist and National Level Young Scientist Awardee with over 10 years of research experience in zoology. Has published many research papers, review articles, and books in peer-reviewed national and international journals.

Currently an Instructional Coach and Education Mentor. Active in social activities in the area of education, believing in bringing positive change through collaboration and interdisciplinary projects.

Mr. Munikrishnaish

Experienced social worker. Serves as President of Navodaya Yuvajana Seva Sangam and worked as a Mediator for a disability project supported by SLF, Netherlands.

• Health Worker Committee Member — Family Planning Project
• Assignment Committee Member — Revenue Department
• District Vigilance & Monitoring Committee (SC/ST)
• National Level Monitor — Seva Bharathi, Ministry of Rural Development
• District Youth Award — Nehru Yuva Kendra

Mrs. Sumitra

Senior social worker with over 32 years of experience in community development in Andhra Pradesh. Has worked closely with coastal, rural, and marginalized communities, facilitating community mobilization, participatory planning, and grassroots leadership development.

Her work emphasizes empowerment of women, youth, and vulnerable groups — strengthening community institutions, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and improving access to social welfare schemes. Supported communities in natural resource management, climate resilience, and social development initiatives.

Mr. Sheik Abdul Aziz

Educationist and linguist specialising in Tamil and Arabic languages. Has published several books for children and his community, and has provided commentary on several television and online channels.

Regularly participates in charitable activities in his local community, cutting across religious and social barriers.