Belonging to Mumbai’s Ambedkar Nagar slum, Ashok witnessed children around him leaving education to earn money, falling prey to drugs and illegal activities. Personally, he discouraged many from taking this route, but realised that this challenge was more complex requiring a unique approach. Ashok’s belief in the power of education motivated him to start OSCAR Foundation despite his little means. OSCAR began with a few children and one simple rule; No school on weekdays- No football sessions on weekends. His unique approach has attracted interest from various S4D organisations including FIFA Foundation, Common Goal and Manchester City FC. A recipient of many prestigious awards such as the CNN-IBN Real Hero Award and the Apollo Tyres Go the Distance Hero Award, Ashok is also an Ashoka Youth Venture Fellow (2008), Acumen Fellow (2021) and has spoken at many international and national leadership forums on the cause of education.
Anil Rathod is the Finance Manager of ‘Teach For India’ – an organization known for its nation-wide movement of outstanding college graduates and young professionals working towards eliminating educational inequity in India. Anil brings over eight years of finance and operations experience to OSCAR and advises us on matters relating to funding and improving operational efficiency. A native of Mumbai, Anil is well-versed with the non-profit sector and understands the ground realities given his vast network.
Deepa Nair is a Communication Professional with over ten years of experience in Business Journalism and Public Relations. She has worked for some of India’s reputed publications like The Hindu. Deepa believes in OSCAR’s approach towards education and in developing life skills to bring about a sustainable change in the communities.
Tarana Lalwani is a Founding Partner at InnoVen Triple Blue Capital Services LLP where she heads sourcing and execution of venture debt transactions, as well as portfolio management. She is also an advisor at Confederation of Indian Industry. Prior to InnoVen she was a Principal at Seedfund. Tarana continues to be involved in the early stage space – mentoring and guiding founders on fundraising, strategy, and business development. Tarana holds an undergraduate degree from LaSalle University, and an MBA from Columbia Business School, USA
A fitness freak, ultra runner and passionate contributor to women and child welfare, Rajeshwari (Rajee) is keen on furthering her contribution by associating with OSCAR Foundation.
Rajee is the co-founder of Percipere and the Chief Innovation Officer of Futuroot & CEO of BCMGuru. She has around 30 years of professional experience with expertise in Organisation Tech Strategy, Process automation, Organisational change management, Business Process & Digital Transformation and Program management. She is an alumnus of INSEAD and a qualified Cost Accountant, carrying expertise in Blockchain & Cybersecurity with experience in Financial Services / Insurance & Media sectors.