Grameen First Development Foundation
About Us
Who we are
Grameen First Development Foundation is a community-focused Indian Non-Profit working for rural development. Founded in early 2021, we operate projects in an underserved urban area in Kalwa, Thane, but our primary commitment is to the rural tribal communities of Palghar district with a special focus on Mokhada taluka in Maharashtra, India.
We are dedicated to making a difference through our initiatives in the key program sectors of Education, Healthcare, Biodiversity and Agriculture, Social Protection, Skilling for Livelihood and Disaster Management for Tribal Communities. We strive to narrow socio-economic disparities with unwavering passion, offering empathy with top-quality services.
Grameen First Development Foundation is registered under Section 8 as a Not-for-profit company under the Companies Act 2013 and with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. We hold 12A and 80G accreditations under the Income Tax Act.
The Leadership Team
Kenneth Dsouza,
Consulting CEO (Voluntary)
Kenneth is an original habitant of Thane district where Mokhada taluka was located until its bifurcation. Today he still feels a close connection with the communities of Mokhada as his own, and comes with a deep spirit of giving back to the communities. Kenneth’s background in music production gave him his successful networking abilities, operating strategies, methodologies and leadership styles that have facilitated partnerships for Grameen First at the highest levels of government in the Palghar District and with stakeholders.
Thaiza Dias,
Director
With over 10 years of experience in rural social work, Thaiza comes to the board with a deep commitment and vision for Mokhada. Born in Mumbai, just a 100-kilometres from Mokhada, Thaiza successfully straddles the worlds of networking and compliance and coaching our tribal beneficiaries and team in the villages of Mokhada to express their voices and potential. She converts tangible ideas into action at the grassroots.
Anil Jadhav,
Director
Anil comes to the board bringing a strong education and a tireless passion to work for his local community. For generations, Anil and his family have lived in the tribal district of Palghar. His insights and tact are crucial to guiding our programs and help us be more effective and sustainable in the long run. Anil represents our mission wherein local tribals have voices at the highest levels of organizations. He is proud to be a true voice for Mokhada.
Who We Support
We support women, children and families from rural villages living on low incomes. The majority are from tribes who have been historically marginalized.
Our program participants often find themselves with a severe lack of amenities and services like accessible roads, clean drinking water and healthcare centres. With limited services and few employment opportunities at home, they’re often forced to migrate. We’re changing that.
