Climate Circle Residency 2.0

J.B. Ramesh, a Jenu Kuruba tribesman, dreamt of preserving his people's traditional music and art. He founded the "Girijana Samagra Abhivridhi Kala Samsthe" to inspire younger generations to carry on the cultural traditions. In 2024, Ramesh performed at the prestigious Mahindra Percussion Festival.

Eby Emmanuel is a dedicated environmentalist and grassroots leader serving as the Secretary of Bhoomika Poonjar, a people’s collective in the Poonjar region of Kottayam, Kerala. A strong advocate for ecological justice, he has devoted his life to protecting rivers, conserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable development in the Western Ghats.

Through Bhoomika Poonjar, Eby leads community-driven environmental initiatives addressing issues like illegal quarrying, deforestation, and pollution. He has been a key force in the Meenachil River protection movement, uniting farmers, youth, and local residents to restore and conserve natural ecosystems.

His contributions span environmental advocacy, grassroots organizing, and policy engagement. He works with local self-governments to embed ecological safeguards in development plans, mentors young conservationists, and promotes sustainable living practices that build resilient, eco-conscious communities.

Jaisree Kumar is a passionate social development leader and educator, and the founder of the Totem Resource Centre, an organisation empowering marginalized communities through education, culture, and sustainable development. Her work reflects a strong commitment to social justice, inclusion, and community-driven change.

At Totem, she bridges traditional knowledge with modern learning, creating inclusive spaces for children, women, youth, and tribal communities to learn, preserve cultural identity, and achieve self-reliance. Her initiatives use education and culture as tools for empowerment and sustainability.

Her key contributions include establishing experiential community learning programs for rural and tribal children, advancing women’s livelihoods and economic independence, preserving indigenous knowledge systems, and mentoring grassroots leaders. She also mobilizes community resources and partnerships to ensure lasting social impact.

Thajudeen Aboobaker is the Co-Founder of Urban Trash, a pioneering waste-tech enterprise based in Kochi, Kerala, driving innovation in waste management through circular economy principles and community participation. Since co-founding Urban Trash in 2022, he has guided its growth into a B2B waste aggregation and management platform serving businesses, communities, and local governments.

Blending technology with sustainability, Thajudeen transforms waste challenges into opportunities for environmental resilience and social impact. Under his leadership, Urban Trash has introduced tech-enabled systems for waste collection, sorting, and value recovery, while partnering with institutions and government initiatives to promote behavioural change and inclusive waste solutions.

Rooted in Kerala’s urban and peri-urban contexts, he has scaled Urban Trash from humble beginnings into a model of sustainable enterprise—creating livelihoods and inspiring a new generation of innovators in circular economy and waste-tech leadership.

Research Fellow, M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) | Botanist | Community Ecologist

Angel Abraham (she/her) is an ecologist and educator from Wayanad, Kerala, currently serving as a Research Fellow at the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation. With a postgraduate degree in Botany from the University of Calicut, she blends scientific research with community engagement to advance biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration, and climate resilience across the Western Ghats.

Her work bridges science and society—ranging from invasive species management and carbon sequestration studies to community-based education and youth engagement. Whether mapping forest trails, leading biodiversity walks, or conducting workshops with tribal youth, Angel embodies place-based environmental leadership grounded in empathy, collaboration, and local wisdom.

Her contributions include leading ecological restoration initiatives in Wayanad’s forests, integrating sustainability into education, researching ecosystem-based climate solutions, and designing participatory conservation programs. Through creative communication and inclusive action, she continues to inspire community-led stewardship of nature.

Ali Farbani (he/him) is a socially committed researcher from Kozhikode, Kerala, and a proud member of the Pusalan community along the Malabar coast. Passionate about cultural studies, community psychology, and grassroots education reform, he combines academic research with field action to uplift marginalized groups and promote social transformation.

Through the School for Social Transformation and his work with the NEM Project, Ali has contributed to inclusive curriculum design and youth-led ecological initiatives. His efforts in mangrove conservation at Kadalundi showcase his ability to blend research, relationship-building, and on-ground action—often creating community connections through shared dialogue and local culture.

His key contributions include leading mangrove restoration and clean-up drives, developing inclusive educational frameworks, facilitating dialogue between communities and government bodies, and conducting field research on ecological degradation. A natural connector and advocate, Ali continues to inspire collaborative, community-rooted action for environmental and social justice.

Akhina Mohan is a sustainability educator and development professional committed to fostering climate-conscious communities through learning, facilitation, and dialogue. With a background in Environmental Science and extensive experience in education, she works across Kerala and beyond to advance environmental stewardship, circular economy practices, and ecological well-being.

Her work bridges research, storytelling, and participatory learning—making complex climate ideas accessible and actionable for schools, youth groups, NGOs, and community networks. Akhina designs reflective learning spaces that inspire awareness, empathy, and collective action toward sustainability.

Her key contributions include leading workshops on climate and sustainability education, facilitating community dialogues rooted in climate justice, promoting zero-waste practices, and mobilizing youth for local climate action. With an intersectional and systems-thinking approach, she continues to shape transformative educational pathways for a resilient, sustainable future.

Gautham is the co-founder of Fireflies, a systems-thinking learning community that cultivates youth leadership and imagination for just and regenerative futures. With a background in engineering and experience in facilitation, organizational development, and social innovation, he creates spaces for young people to reflect, unlearn, and reimagine their role in ecological and social transformation.

His work integrates strategy, learning design, and grassroots engagement—bringing together communities, collectives, and educators to rethink sustainability and systems change from the ground up.

Through Fireflies, Gautham has co-created values-based learning ecosystems centered on reflection, dialogue, and collaboration. He facilitates programs on ecological literacy and systems thinking, mentors grassroots leaders, and partners with schools, NGOs, and fellowships to build non-institutional, climate-resilient learning pathways. Advocating for slow learning and deep community connection, he continues to shape holistic approaches to education and regeneration.

Jonathan Edward De Rozario is a passionate advocate for biodiversity, ecosystem justice, and youth-led policy change. With a background in wildlife biology and ecosystem restoration, he combines scientific expertise with community action to strengthen conservation efforts and empower youth participation in environmental governance.

Jonathan plays an active role in advancing youth leadership within the Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN), amplifying young voices in international biodiversity policy dialogues. His work spans field-based restoration, biodiversity monitoring, and community education—building awareness around regeneration and the interconnections between climate and biodiversity.

Through research-driven advocacy and collaboration with NGOs, youth networks, and policymakers, Jonathan champions inclusive, youth-led approaches to conservation and ecosystem resilience, helping embed ecological justice into long-term system change.

Sonal Kuruvilla is a policy consultant and social strategist, and the co-founder of the Nayaneethi Policy Collective (NPoC)—an initiative advancing education reform, governance innovation, and social equity. Guided by a commitment to participatory governance and systemic change, she works at the intersection of policy design, community engagement, and institutional transformation to foster climate-resilient and inclusive development.

Through NPoC, Sonal has co-created evidence-based policy initiatives that strengthen youth leadership, governance capacity, and education systems. Her work integrates social justice, sustainability, and inclusion into policy and curriculum frameworks while facilitating dialogue among governments, institutions, and communities to drive reform.

Applying a justice-centered approach to climate and social systems, Sonal empowers young changemakers and organisations to adopt reflective, adaptive strategies that promote equity, transparency, and long-term systemic resilience.

Sarath K. R. is a folk arts enthusiast and environmental advocate from Kerala who bridges traditional culture with ecological action. As a member of the Vayali Folklore Group, founded in 2004 to preserve the folk heritage of the Valluvanad region along the Bharathapuzha (Nila) River, he uses indigenous music, art, and storytelling to promote environmental awareness and river conservation.

Sarath plays a key role in youth-led environmental education, integrating performance, percussion, and cultural expression into campaigns for ecological restoration. Through initiatives like AlterSchool, he nurtures young cultural ecologists committed to protecting Kerala’s rivers and heritage.

His contributions include leading community campaigns for the Nila River’s conservation, revitalizing traditional folk arts, and performing with India’s first Bamboo Band, which promotes sustainability through art. An alumnus of the Changelooms Fellowship and Pravah’s leadership program, Sarath continues to champion cultural ecology, community learning, and intergenerational environmental stewardship.

Anish T. Thomas is a social worker and emerging climate leader dedicated to promoting human–wildlife coexistence and sustainable community development. A postgraduate in Social Work from the Central University of Karnataka (2021–2023), he explores how climate change intensifies human–wildlife conflicts and affects agricultural livelihoods in rural Kerala.

Blending research with community engagement, Anish practices green social work, placing local knowledge and participatory approaches at the center of conservation and climate resilience efforts.

His key contributions include pioneering research on the impact of human–wildlife conflict on farming communities in Pathanamthitta, facilitating participatory rural development programs, and promoting eco-friendly agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Through education and youth outreach, he fosters climate awareness and encourages collective responsibility toward sustainable living and ecological harmony.

Sarath Cheloor is a veteran social activist and human rights advocate from Irinjalakuda, Kerala, with over two decades of involvement in people’s movements for social justice, democracy, and peace. As the State Programme Coordinator of the National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM) – Kerala, he has been a leading voice in mobilizing communities for ecological justice, gender equity, and participatory governance.

Rooted in the belief that true transformation arises from collective action and solidarity, Sarath combines grassroots activism with institutional leadership. His experience spans community organizing, cultural advocacy, and organizational management, strengthening movements for rights and inclusion across Kerala.

His key contributions include leading NAPM’s statewide campaigns for environmental and social justice, advancing gender rights through his former leadership at Sahayathrika, and using cinema for dialogue and peacebuilding through the ViBGYOR Film Collective. With a background in English Literature and ongoing postgraduate studies in Sociology, Sarath continues to bridge activism, culture, and governance toward a more just and democratic society.

Abshana Jamal is a researcher and eco-social work scholar pursuing her PhD at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Kochi. With a Master’s in Social Work specializing in rural and urban community development, she focuses on sustainable agri-food systems, climate action, and the circular economy, advocating for models that harmonize human livelihoods with ecological balance.

As a Team Finland Knowledge Programme Fellow and Climate Leadership Fellow at the Sustera Foundation, Abshana collaborates on international initiatives addressing sustainability, crisis preparedness, and grassroots climate advocacy. Her projects—such as Rewild: Building Community Fruit Forest in North Paravur—reflect her commitment to participatory ecological restoration and community-led resilience.

Through her research, writing, and field practice, Abshana bridges academia, sustainability, and social transformation. She continues to build collaborative networks that empower communities and institutions to advance inclusive, resilient, and ecologically responsible development.

Jamshad K is the Founder and Managing Director of Metbeat Weather LLP, Kerala’s first private climate risk and weather intelligence firm dedicated to providing accurate and accessible weather insights to the public. Growing up in Kerala, his firsthand experience with the state’s unpredictable weather inspired him to create a people-centered approach to weather communication and climate preparedness.

Though not formally trained as a meteorologist, Jamshad has emerged as a trusted voice in weather awareness and climate risk communication. Through Metbeat Weather and its media platform, Metbeat News, he delivers real-time forecasts, regional alerts, and public education on extreme weather events—empowering farmers, fishermen, travelers, and local communities to make informed decisions.

His work focuses on simplifying weather information, strengthening climate risk management, and building community-based forecasting networks. Committed to public safety and transparency, Jamshad urges citizens to stay informed through Metbeat Weather’s updates while referring to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for official reports and warnings.

Amjad Anwar is a sustainability and climate change professional with a strong grounding in law and policy, currently serving as a Program Officer at Asar. His work spans climate action, governance reform, and community-based development, operating at the intersection of legal research, policy advocacy, and sustainable systems design.

Beginning his career at the Sustera Foundation, Amjad helped design and coordinate the Climate Leadership Program, training young leaders in climate adaptation and mitigation. He has since contributed to Kerala’s subnational climate strategies as a Consultant for State Climate Action, facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations and evidence-based policy frameworks. Parallel to his professional work, he practices as an Advocate at the High Court of Kerala, integrating legal insight into environmental and social governance.

Amjad’s expertise lies in translating climate and legal frameworks into actionable, community-driven initiatives. He continues to champion inclusive governance, youth leadership, and participatory policy design—advancing climate justice and sustainable development through collaboration and informed advocacy.

Executive Member, CLAN | Climate Leadership Programme Fellow | Community Representative, Kumbalangi | Sustainable Development Advocate

Syama Praveen is a climate action volunteer and community leader from Kumbalangi, Kerala’s first model tourism village, with over three years of active involvement in the climate sector. Passionate about community resilience, she focuses on empowering flood-prone coastal areas through sustainable and locally driven solutions.

In collaboration with Ignotech, Syama led a data-driven project mapping flood impacts across Kumbalangi households—helping shape informed local climate planning. As a Volunteer with the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), she contributed to installing solar-powered streetlights and transforming a government school classroom into a smart classroom, promoting both clean energy and education.

A Climate Leadership Programme Fellow under the Sustera Foundation and Executive Member of CLAN (Climate Leadership Alumni Network), Syama continues to champion grassroots climate initiatives. She actively represents her community in national climate forums, including a seminar hosted by TISS Mumbai, advocating for resilient and inclusive climate solutions for her tidal flood-affected region.

Nishan Nazer is an academic and researcher in urban and environmental planning, specializing in land use management and ecosystem services. As an Assistant Professor at TKM College of Engineering, Kollam, he integrates technical expertise with an interdisciplinary approach to promote sustainable and equitable urban development.

An alumnus of NIT Calicut and an SBI Youth for India Fellow, Nishan’s work bridges research, planning, and community-centered environmental action. His studies focus on how ecosystem service mapping and spatial planning can guide resilient urban growth and policy design, contributing to several peer-reviewed publications, including the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science.

Combining academic rigor and innovation, Nishan is currently exploring the use of AI and GIS-based tools in environmental planning and decision support systems—making sustainability research more data-driven, inclusive, and action-oriented.

Rethin (Thadeus A) Antony is an ocean activist and grassroots community leader dedicated to protecting Kerala’s coastal ecosystems and empowering indigenous fishing communities. As the President of the Coastal Students Cultural Forum (CSCF) and an elected Ward Member of Karumkulam Grama Panchayath, he bridges youth leadership, local governance, and environmental advocacy to strengthen coastal resilience and social justice.

With over seven years of experience in community mobilization and environmental action, Rethin has led initiatives addressing marine pollution, coastal governance, and climate adaptation across Kerala’s vulnerable shorelines. Through CSCF, he has built a strong youth platform for sustainability dialogue, policy engagement, and cultural revitalization within coastal regions.

As an Indigenous Community Liaison, Rethin amplifies the voices of marginalized groups and ensures their inclusion in decision-making on coastal development. His work in local self-governance reflects a deep commitment to community-driven climate strategies that safeguard both people and the ocean.