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.

Ami Vashi
Governing Body

Ami Vashi’s life journey is woven with remarkable achievements, unparalleled grace, and a relentless commitment to positively impacting the world. Her story is a testament to resilience, versatility, and an unyielding spirit that transcends obstacles. From her early triumphs in the realm of beauty pageants to her global success in the world of fashion and modelling, Ami’s life has been a series of accomplishments fuelled by her unwavering dedication.

Ami garnered international attention for her presence and charm when she won the title of Miss India 2003 and was declared runner-up in Miss World 2003. However, there is more to her story than the glitz and glamour. Raised in the United States, she pursued a degree in finance from the prestigious University of Southern California. Ami’s academic pursuits exemplify her determination to excel in diverse fields, proving that her beauty is matched only by her intellect.

Behind the curtain of fame, Ami’s passion for cultural arts shines brightly. A practitioner of Bharata Natyam and Kathak, traditional Indian dance forms, she finds solace and expression through movement. This blend of modernity and tradition further complements her deep yoga involvement, reflecting her commitment to holistic well-being.

Her desire to give back to society led her to establish the JP ji Foundation, an embodiment of her father’s lifelong commitment to helping the underprivileged by feeding them. With a heart that beats for the marginalised, Ami’s journey is as much about transforming lives as it is about her achievements. 

Ami’s journey took a further unexpected turn when she discovered (albeit only in adulthood) that she had dyslexia. It took her back to her dark school days when she had trouble with schoolwork, where she had to rely on her mother and brother to finish her coursework. She also recollected instances during her childhood where Dyslexia was misunderstood as a psychological problem or an extension of other issues like Autism. Her experience ignited a fire within her to confront and dispel misconceptions about Dyslexia. This determination led her to become an advocate to break down barriers, foster understanding and seek to defy preconceived notions about Dyslexia. 

Ami Vashi’s affiliation with DLearners is a testament to her genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of students like her. Her excitement to be a part of this initiative, driven by a connection to rural areas and a commitment to reaching those often forgotten and ignored, underscores her authenticity and dedication. Her vision extends beyond personal recognition, and she aspires to bring quality education and awareness to underprivileged students with Dyslexia.