Leadership
Mrs. Premila Pavamani
President, Emmanuel Ministries CalcuttaSince 1971, Mrs. Pavamani and her late husband, Mr. Vijayan Pavamani, have been driven by a higher calling to serve others. With unwavering faith and a shared vision, they founded Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta, which would become a beacon of hope for many. Together, they opened their hearts and home to those in need, tirelessly working to create a lasting impact in the community.
Mr. Vijayan Pavamani, a visionary in his own right, pioneered ground-breaking mental health interventions and support services in Eastern India at a time when such issues were largely overlooked and stigmatized. Meanwhile, Mrs. Pavamani took on the crucial role of communications, skillfully crafting narratives of hope, transformation, and resilience. Through her efforts, she connected with individuals and organisations across the globe, building a network of passionate supporters and advocates who shared the same commitment to making a difference.
Following the passing of Vijayan in 2006, Mrs. Pavamani took on the role of President of Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta, continuing their shared mission with the same dedication and spirit. Her leadership has been instrumental in launching programs that have transformed countless lives, including the highly successful Livelihood Program for mothers.
Mrs. Pavamani is widely respected for her compassion, vision, and deep commitment to the cause. She views her journey as a divine adventure—a life filled with purpose, connection, and the joy of empowering people from all walks of life. Her leadership continues to inspire and drive positive change, and she remains a guiding force behind the organisation’s ongoing success.
Mr. Shajan George
Executive Director, Emmanuel Ministries CalcuttaWith more than 45 years of expertise in non-profit leadership, Mr. George brings a wealth of experience to his role at Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta. He first joined the organisation as a close colleague of founders Vijayan and Premila, and in 2018, he was appointed Executive Director. Mr. George’s unique blend of financial acumen, administrative expertise, and deep dedication to Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta’s mission has been instrumental in the organisation’s continued success and growth.
Mr. George holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, and a Diploma in Management from Cornwall College, England. His leadership style is defined by structure, accountability, and empathy, ensuring that every decision aligns with the values and long-term goals of the organisation. Under his stewardship, Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta has seen significant growth, forged new strategic partnerships, and experienced a notable increase in donor contributions. These advancements have directly contributed to the expansion of programs that continue to drive meaningful change within the community.
A key element of Mr. George’s leadership is his commitment to mentorship. He works closely with project heads to develop strategies, challenge conventional thinking, and nurture the next generation of leaders within the organisation. For Mr. George, seeing lives transformed through Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta is not only a privilege but also a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to make a lasting impact.
Mr. George remains deeply inspired by the transformative work he witnesses daily and views his role at Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta as both a privilege and a calling. He believes the organisation’s continued success is a reflection of divine guidance and the shared dedication of the entire team.
Trustees
Mr. Finney Thomas
Chairman, Board of TrusteesAn Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering graduate from IIT Kharagpur, Mr. Thomas combines technical excellence with strong business leadership. After building and leading his own company, he transitioned to the non-profit sector, bringing 20 years of experience to Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta.
Passionate about supporting street children, he focuses on ensuring financial stability and effective property management for the organisation. Under his leadership, Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta has seen sustained growth and strategic financial management. Known for his unwavering integrity, strategic vision, and compassionate leadership, Mr. Thomas views his role as both a responsibility and a calling.
Outside of his trustee duties, he enjoys playing golf and is known for his musical talent and sharp humour.
Mr. Daniel Roy
TrusteeSince joining Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta as a Trustee, Mr. Roy has been motivated by a deep desire to serve and contribute in a meaningful way. With a professional background as an accountant at Exide Industries Limited, he brings valuable expertise in financial management to his role as trustee.
Mr. Roy is passionate about being a channel of support to the needy and downtrodden, reflecting the founder’s vision of uplifting those who need it most. He hopes to make a positive impact by utilizing his skills and resources to help further the organisation’s mission of bringing hope and the joy of life to those who feel lost, regardless of their background, and helping them find renewed purpose.
Mr. Asis Kumar Sarkar
TrusteeMr. Sarkar’s association as a Trustee with Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta since 2023 has been motivated by the organisation’s impactful work among marginalised communities, including vulnerable children and individuals struggling with substance abuse. With a background in pastoral care, he brings valuable experience in supporting both the emotional and spiritual needs of individuals.
He is deeply passionate about the organisation’s commitment to addressing both the physical and spiritual needs of the poor and needy. His goal is to help reach the unreached, sharing a message of love, hope, and care.
To Mr. Sarkar, Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta’s mission is about dedicated service for a higher purpose, making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need. Outside of his trustee role, he enjoys fellowship with the community.
Patrons
In addition to our Board of Trustees and Executive Leadership, we are deeply grateful for the support of a distinguished group of Patrons. These individuals contribute significantly to our mission through their financial generosity, mentorship, and expertise. While not part of our formal governance structure, their advocacy, insight, and sustained commitment have played a key role in furthering our impact, expanding our reach, and empowering us to overcome challenges. We deeply appreciate their vital partnership in helping to shape our work and drive our mission forward.
Ken Rassch
CEO and Chairman of Creative Brands Group, Inc. and Founder and CEO of Immersive ArtistryMr. Rassch is a visionary entrepreneur known for turning ideas into successful ventures. With a unique ability to blend the arts with emotional expression, his work resonates on a deeply personal level. Mr. Rassch is deeply committed to God and family, with a passion for sharing God's love and helping others feel successful in life. For over 25 years, he has partnered with Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta , bringing not only his business acumen but also a spirit of service and love to the organisation. Mr. Rassch , alongside his family, continues to inspire and enrich the community through his ongoing dedication and service.
Pramod Haque
Managing Partner, Norwest Venture PartnersMr. Haque first connected with Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta as a young student searching for purpose—and that moment sparked a lifelong friendship rooted in faith and shared vision. Over the years, Mr. Haque has remained a steadfast supporter, admired for his humility, strong work ethic, and deep commitment to empowering communities in India. Alongside his wife and children, he continues to visit, encourage, and inspire with practical insight and heartfelt dedication. Mr. Haque never seeks recognition, yet his quiet strength and love for this work speak volumes. His unwavering support remains a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with grace and purpose.
John Miskelly
Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society, Fellow of the British Institute of Professional Photography, Canson Infinity International Ambassador and a LEE Filters Master.John Miskelly is a globally recognized photographer, honored as a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society and the British Institute of Professional Photography. As a Canson Infinity International Ambassador and LEE Filters Master, he has built an exceptional reputation for artistic excellence. While he also has a successful background in finance, photography is his true passion. His creative vision and technical mastery have earned him international acclaim. John's connection with the Pavamani family began decades ago in Kolkata, leading to his ongoing support of the Emmanuel charity. His visits bring not only expertise but deep friendship and inspiration.
Amit Sinha
President at Intelivation Technologies, Medical Device Specialist, Founder of Prana InternationalAmit Sinha is the Founder of Prana International and President of Intelivation Technologies, but his heart remains deeply rooted in Kolkata, the city he still calls home. A medical device specialist with a successful career in the U.S., Mr. Sinha has never wavered in his commitment to serving the less fortunate. He plays a vital role in supporting micro-credit initiatives and driving socio-economic interventions that empower marginalized communities. His deep love for Kolkata, combined with his entrepreneurial vision, continues to fuel lasting change. Mr. Sinha’s work exemplifies how global success can be paired with a strong, grounded commitment to giving back.
Honorary Advisors & Resource Experts
We are honoured to be supported by a distinguished group of individuals who have contributed significantly to our mission through their expertise, mentorship, and longstanding commitment. These Honorary Advisors and Resource Experts are not members of our formal governance structure, yet their involvement has enriched our programs, strengthened our capacity, and sustained our efforts during both opportunities and challenges. We recognise and deeply value their role in shaping the work we do.
Dr. Illora Barik
TherapistDr. Barik has been associated with Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta (EMC) for 21 years. She was inspired by the vision of Founder Director Vijayan Pavamani, who believed that people are more important than their problems, and by the affirmation of his wife and co-founder Premila. She continues to consider EMC her second home.
Her academic background includes a Master’s in Social Work, an M.Phil from NIMHANS, and a Ph.D. from Visva-Bharati. With 26 years of experience in institutes, NGOs, and INGOs, she brings expertise in organizational development, mental health, counselling, de-addiction, family therapy, advocacy, research, and training.
Her contributions to EMC include baseline surveys, anti-trafficking sensitisation and training, developing local leadership, initiating “Spandan,” a support group for people living with HIV/AIDS, and building capacity through mentorship and training on mental health.
She aligns closely with EMC’s belief that every person reflects the divine image of God. In her role, she seeks to act as a catalyst, fostering emotional and social health while strengthening EMC’s professional growth.
Alongside EMC, she supports NGOs Non-governmental organisations) and CBOs (Community based organisations) in program development, management, and documentation. She also provides therapy, leads capacity-building workshops, and runs school enrichment programs with a focus on life skills.
Mark Johnston
Social WorkerMr. Johnston has served as an Honorary Advisor with Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta (EMC) for eight years. His decision to take on this role grew from close relationships with the leadership team and with the children and young people supported by EMC.
With more than 35 years in the health service, Mark brings expertise in social work, safeguarding, and management. His background includes safeguarding for both adults and children, leadership in service delivery, and training with Arunoday Midway Home. At EMC, he has focused on strengthening safeguarding practices, supporting leadership, and working directly with children and young people.
His contributions include leading safeguarding training and audits, improving practices across projects, and supporting progress in a former children’s residential home. He has ensured safeguarding remains a central part of EMC’s mission and provided consistent encouragement to leaders.
Mark is most aligned with EMC’s commitment to show God’s love and compassion to children and adults in need throughout Kolkata. Through his role, he seeks to protect vulnerable groups, equip leaders, and help the ministry grow in both impact and accountability.
In his personal time, Mark enjoys reading, gardening, going to the gym, spending time with family, and serving in his local church.