Core Team

Dr. (Ms.) Rashneh N. Pardiwala is an Ecologist from the University of Edinburgh having specialized in the field of Climate Change. She has been recognized as a ‘Social Entrepreneur for Change’ and has been awarded numerous fellowships including the Ashoka Fellowship, Asia Society Fellowship and Ford Fellowship to study at Columbia University. Rashneh serves on the board of foundations and educational institutions as a subject expert to help develop curriculum and award scholarships to students.

Mrs. Kitayun (Katy) Rustom, began her career as a school teacher at the J. B. Petit School for Girls and spearheaded the Dahanu Taluka Environmental Welfare Association (DTEWA) for 15 years. Katy serves on several government appointed committees and bodies. In 2005, she was awarded the Ashoka Fellowship. She undertakes teacher training workshops and has authored several books and learning materials for environmental education. Katy currently also heads the Education Services at CERE.

Janjri graduated from the University of Edinburgh with an MSc. in Environmental Protection and Management and has over 15 years of experience working in the non-profit and development sector. Her interests centre on climate change science, corporate sustainability & urban solutions to environmental issues. She has worked with several organisations on carbon reporting, disclosures, and strategy. Janjri loves to teach and has been a regular guest lecturer at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. She has co-authored several books related to environmental education. Janjri has attended DISHA a UK-India program on leadership and is a LEAD India fellow.

Bhagyesh brings along the expertise from Computer Science and Sustainability. He has a Master degree in computer science and has also gained research experiences in 'Design for Sustainability' from the University of Liverpool, UK and National Tsinghua University, Taiwan. His expertise includes GHG accounting, Data analysis, sustainability-tool development.

Shabnam Sikandar has a Masters in Electronics and Electrical Engineering from Santa Clara University, CA, USA with a 12-year career in engineering in US and India. Her interests in the social aspects of engineering led her to work in the areas of Sustainable Energy. Shabnam leads the Swtich on Solar program at CERE.

With skillsets such as science communication, research and content development, and project management, Shweta comes with an experience of five years in the field of environmental education and awareness. She works on the Urban Afforestation Project (UAP) at CERE. She's a wildlife enthusiast and has a keen interest in wildlife conservation and nature education.

Anjana is a keen researcher with the ability to use statistical packages. Having completed MA in Environmental Economics from Madras School of Economics, Chennai, Anjana seeks to contribute to a more sustainable future. Her interest lies primarily in the inter-linkages between ecosystems and the economy with focus on carbon foot-printing, urban biodiversity and impact assessments.

Sahil has a graduate degree in Business Administration from Indraprastha University, Delhi and a masters degree in Climate Change and Sustainability Studies from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. He has a worked in Supply Chain Management for over 3.5 years and has over 4.5 years of experience in the field of Data Analytics. His areas of expertise are Climate Science, GHG Emissions as well as social adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Kailas is a graduate of Physics and has pursued a Master's in Climate Change and Sustainability Studies from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. He has experience working on Data Analysis, Climate Policy, Climate Finance and Renewable Energy. As a student of Social Science, he is interested in studying social and economic impacts of climate change. He has also cleared UGC-NET in Sociology.

With over 3 years of experience in data management, project management and monitoring, Kanakangi has a strong expertise in the carbon offsets and environmental sustainability space. Having worked at Technoserve India, PRADAN, Jal Jeevan Mission, Carbon Impact Capital her experience spans rural development, carbon finance and sustainable resource management, enabling her to bring a holistic approach to urban greening projects.

Shruti is a sustainability professional with expertise in market research, reporting, ESG ratings, materiality assessments, quality control, and various sustainability standards, including SASB, GRI, CDP, and UNSDGs. As an Erasmus Scholar, she holds a master's degree in Chemistry from University Paris Saclay and Adam Mickiewicz University and a bachelor's degree in Chemistry from St. Stephen's College.

Shariah holds a postgraduate degree in Botany from Ruia College, Mumbai, and is currently pursuing a Post Graduate Diploma in Horticulture. With a strong foundation in plant science and practical horticultural skills, she is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices and contributing to solutions in ecology and the environment.

Holding a master’s degree in Environmental Science from K.J. Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, Mumbai, Prakriti has worked in the sector of environmental awareness and education. She enjoys gardening and birdwatching. Her commitment to environmental conservation and practical solutions reflects her dedication to positively impacting the planet.

Vikas holds a Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (BAF) degree from Guru Nanak College. Having over 8 years of experience in the accounting and taxation field, Vikas’ expertise encompasses a wide range of accounting functions, including financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning.

Avanti Mehta has a degree in Wildlife Management from the University of Maine, USA and has trained in Captive Breeding Endangered Species at the Durell Conservation Learning Center, Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, UK. She has had vast experience as a naturalist and in planning and working at large zoos for the conservation of wildlife.