With over two decades of experience working in the Indian development sector, Jaya has worn many hats. Since 2009, Jaya has been responsible for the overall implementation of the Young People’s Initiative (formerly Goal programme) across Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore and through partners in Tamil Nadu and Punjab. She ensures high-quality execution of the programme, manages grants and is instrumental in the further development of the YPI. Jaya manages a team of 70 young leaders and builds relationships with a variety of stakeholders. She has attended various leadership conferences organised by Dasra (India), American Express, Women Win (Netherlands) and Laureus (UK) and has been a member of Global networks like Vital Voices and Woman Sports Leadership Academy (University of Chichester). Jaya holds a Master’s Degree in Human Development, SNDT University, Mumbai and wrote her post-graduation dissertation on Home-Based Care for People Living with HIV.

Corina has been trained as a sports coach in the Netherlands, where she was born and raised. She worked for 20 years in mental health using sport as a tool for personal change and the treatment of people with psychiatric and personality disorders. From 2005 onwards, she has worked in Kenya and India on sports for social change programmes. Since 2016, she has lived in India. Mumbai has become her home through her work for Maitrayana, but especially by being engaged in sport. Corina believes in the power of sport both professionally but also in her private life. She is an endurance athlete (24 hours running and 12 hours swimming) and a triathlete (swimming/cycling/running in one race), where she strives for equal representation as she supports girls and women to overcome barriers that keep them from participating in sport. In 2023, Corina participated in the World Championships Ironman (triathlon). She...

Over 20 years in the service industry, with hands-on experience in various Business areas like Telecom, FMCG, & Development Sector. Adept at working closely with CXOs/Senior Business Leaders, in building successful business models and managing complex projects in a rapidly changing, often ambiguous environment. Expert in ‘bridging the gap’ between strategic intent and process execution. Having worked with both Fortune 500 organizations (Colgate-Palmolive and TCS) & Start-ups equipped me with experience and domain expertise to look at the business from a 360-degree angle and multiply the value added. Currently, Rohit leads strategic partnerships and resource mobilisation at Maitrayana, focusing on advancing gender equality and youth empowerment.

Shailendra brings over 15 years of expertise in accountancy, auditing, ROC and MCA compliances, taxation, and FCRA regulations. He excels in designing and implementing modern, cost-effective compliance systems. His extensive experience spans reputable social impact organizations such as The Naz Foundation (India) Trust, NIIT Foundation, CARE India, Magic Bus, and KLG Systel Limited. Known for his strong ability to ensure efficient fund utilisation, robust internal controls, and strict legal compliance, Shailendra currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Maitrayana. In this role, he leads the organization’s financial strategy, overseeing financial planning, risk management, record-keeping, and reporting.

Shreetanjali is an enthusiastic and dedicated Program Coordinator with over eight years of experience in the social sector. Her work has spanned diverse areas, including school programs, aftercare support, livelihood initiatives, child care homes, drug de-addiction and rehabilitation, community upliftment, and women's empowerment. Shreetanjali specialises in delivering life skills training and support to individuals and families. She is known for being adaptable and having a compassionate approach in dynamic and often challenging environments.

Sheetal is a dynamic leader with extensive experience in sport-for-development, training, and community mobilisation. With a strong background as a netball player and facilitator, she has worked across life skills training, curriculum design, capacity building, and large-scale program implementation. She previously supported Maitrayana’s life skills and netball programs as the Training & Learning Coordinator. She has also led impactful events through the SMAD (Sports Make A Difference) initiative at 4Memories Events. Sheetal is known for crafting clarity out of chaos. Whether it’s building training content that clicks or designing systems that empower teams, Sheetal brings a calm, creative mind and a sharp eye for what really matters.

With over three years of experience in the NGO sector, Tomcy currently serves as a Program Coordinator at Maitrayana in Bangalore. She is best known for her deep commitment to gender justice, consistently advocating for equitable spaces and uplifting marginalised voices. Having worked on programs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Tomcy has developed a keen understanding of the challenges faced by marginalised communities. Her work includes facilitating sensitisation workshops on gender, sexuality, and diversity, making her a trusted advocate in the field. Outside of work, Tomcy finds joy in exploring diverse cuisines, organic farming, and diving into gender advocacy books, reflecting her passion for continuous learning and meaningful impact.

Rajesh brings 14 years of experience in social development, excelling in data and people management. In this role, he works closely with people and teams to ensure smooth administrative operations, while also providing HR support to strengthen team collaboration and well-being. His focus is to create an efficient, supportive, and positive workplace culture that enables the Maitrayana team to thrive and deliver on its mission. With a hands-on approach and a commitment to service, he aims to bridge processes gaps to drive collective success. He believes learning is a continuous process and is dedicated to improving his skills. In his free time, Rajesh loves playing video games and drawing.

With five years of experience in digital communication with a background in journalism and marketing, Shaziya is an expert in the field. She currently leads Maitrayana’s communication and advocacy efforts. Shaziya is passionate about  She is also on the organisation’s PoSH Internal Committee.  Shaziya’s leadership is transformative, and inclusion and equity are her guiding principles. She loves coffee but cannot say no to a cup of chai.

Manoj has 8 years of experience in accounting and documentation. He is skilled in maintaining financial records and statutory compliance. He is also well-versed in GST, TDS, and other regulatory requirements. Manoj is known for his initiative-taking skills, driving compliance and financial management. An avid cricket fan, Manoj plays regularly. He also likes cooking special recipes, playing cricket and listening to music.

Anjali brings eight years of finance experience working with government and non-governmental institutions. She specialises in auditing and reporting. She completed her Master's in Commerce in 2020. Outside of work, Anjali enjoys travelling, dancing, and caring for her plants.

Monika brings over 10 years of experience in the development sector, with a strong focus on education, mental health, and women’s empowerment. She excels in team management, initiative-taking, and has led impactful programs promoting gender equality and community well-being. Passionate about inclusive development, Monika combines strategic thinking with grassroots engagement. Outside of work, she enjoys all forms of dance and has travelled across 25 Indian states, enriching her understanding of diverse cultures.

Madina is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and brings over six years of experience in the development sector. Deeply rooted in community work, she continues to stay connected with grassroots initiatives through the powerful medium of sports. Her passion lies in mental health, and she is committed to creating safe and inclusive spaces for adolescents and young people to express themselves. Madina’s work reflects a blend of psychosocial support, community engagement, and youth empowerment.

Preeti is a YPI programme alumnus, where she actively participated and took the lead in netball tournaments and currently, she serves as a Programme Associate in Delhi. Over the years, she grew within the organization progressing from a Community Sports Coach (CSC) to an Associate. With seven years of experience working with adolescent girls and young women through sport, she has impeccable skills in people management, stakeholder engagement, and connecting with girls in the community. Preeti is also a Netball and Life Skills Master Trainer leading trainings for the staff.

Neha is a seasoned development professional with over six years of experience designing and leading impactful programs across WASH, Livelihoods, Agriculture, and Women’s Empowerment. An alumna of Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS), Ranchi, and an E4Social Impact Leadership Fellow, she specializes in managing end-to-end project cycles—from team leadership and strategic planning to execution, monitoring and evaluation, and documentation. With a deep commitment to grassroots change and inclusive development, Neha brings strategic insight and hands-on field expertise. As a proud mother, she exemplifies how purpose-driven leadership and parenthood can thrive in harmony.

Archana is a creative change-maker known for her problem-solving skills and leadership qualities. With expertise in stakeholder management and data analysis, she drives gender equality initiatives with innovative solutions.

Pallavi Ubale, a compassionate social worker with nine years of experience, is adept at stakeholder management and crisis intervention. Her expertise in conducting assessments and developing personalised treatment plans ensures high-quality support for individuals and families. Known for her people management skills, Pallavi empowers her team by recognising their strengths and building their capacity.

From participant to Community Sports Coach, Namrata's decade-long journey reflects her dedication and passion. She shines not only in sports coaching but also in photography, capturing the essence of Maitrayana's activities. Dedicated to creating a better world for girls, Namrata leads with facilitation skills and a commitment to empowerment.

Aarti Kori, with nine years of experience, embodies the transformative power of dedication in sports for development NGOs. Her leadership infuses projects with tireless energy and unwavering enthusiasm, setting her apart in coaching and team management. A creative soul and relentless advocate, Aarti champions positive change in sports and beyond.