Arun Fernandez
Founder
Arun Fernandez, a determined individual with dyslexia, founded DLearners, a PaaS platform aimed at supporting children with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD). His journey, marked by challenges, led to the creation of Blink Foundation and Blink Research and Services, focusing on screening, identification, and tailored educational content for SLD. Recognized by prominent figures and institutions, Arun’s DLearners platform, launched in 2020, provides comprehensive support for children with SLD, embodying his vision for an equitable educational landscape for children with SLD.
Fr. Thisai Gerry
Director
Dr. Thisai Gerry’s contributions to the community and his dedication to service are truly remarkable. His efforts in founding various social and educational projects have had a significant impact on the lives of many, particularly in the Tirunelveli district. From establishing the Counselling Centre in Puliampatty to initiating the ‘Thodu Vaanam’ youth project, his work has spanned a wide range of areas, including adult education, child welfare, and cultural development. The founding of ‘LIFT’ and ‘Happy Home’ are testaments to his commitment to improving the educational opportunities for underprivileged children. Moreover, his role in cultural initiatives like ‘Chennai Sangamam’ highlights his dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage. His leadership in these endeavors not only reflects his deep compassion but also his vision for a better future for the communities he serves.
Subha Chandrashekhar
Academic Head
Meet Subha Chandrashekhar, the Academic Head at DLearners with over 28 years of experience in inclusive education. She is a registered Rehabilitation Practitioner and Special Educator, a Fulbright Distinguished Awards Scholar, and an ADA fellow in inclusive education. She has extensive experience in establishing inclusive strategies and policies for learners from marginalized groups. She received the Jagran Josh Award for Best Initiative for Children with Special Needs and has been recognized with the Role Model Teacher Award, International School Award, and Bharat Nirman Award for her outstanding contribution to Inclusive and Special Education.
Neeta Karal Nair
Research & Project Manager
Meet Neeta, our research and project management maven. With 11 years of experience as a public
health professional, she’s a seasoned pro in the field. Her rich educational background from reputed universities in England and India, combined with international research experience, make her a valuable asset to our team. Currently, she’s the head honcho of Microsoft Project at the Blink Foundation, where she manages to bring projects to fruition with her expertise and efficiency. With Neeta leading the charge, you can be sure that our projects will be a success.
Dipesh Sutariya
Governing Body
Introducing the CEO and Co-founder of Enable India, an NGO based in Bangalore. 18 years of software experience and 5 years of building offshore companies, he’s the “rock” who’s steered Enable India’s thought People of DLearners with the livelihood framework. He’s created platforms and initiatives that brought large scale impact for the disability sector and set up structures for the livelihood puzzle. His mantra: “eye on the ball” (probably because of his love for golf) and he’s also on the board of Workability Asia.
Marie Banu
Governing Body
Meet Marie Banu, She is the Director of Centre for Social Initiative and Management (CSIM) Chennai and the Director of Social Audit Network, UK (SAN, UK), she understands the importance of education and the impact it can have on individuals and society. she dedicated her career to promoting social accountability and good governance. As a registered Social Auditor at SAN India and SAN UK, and an accredited SROI and Social Value Trainer by Social Value International (SVI), She is well-versed in the nuances of social accounting and audit, and she is committed to ensuring that DLearners is a resource that is inclusive and accessible for all learners.
Latha Suresh
Governing Body
Meet Latha Suresh, a social accountant turned auditor, and as a member of the governing body of DLearners, she is thrilled to have the opportunity to support children with learning difficulties, particularly those with dyslexia. As a social accountant and auditor, she understands the importance of education and the impact it can have on individuals and society. she is committed to using her position on the governing body to ensure that DLearners is a resource that is inclusive and accessible for all learners.