Our Team
At Eco Foundation for Research and Training (EFFORT), our dedicated team is the driving force behind our mission to empower communities and create lasting change. We are a group of passionate individuals committed to social development, sustainability, and community well-being. Together, we bring diverse expertise, experience, and enthusiasm to every project we undertake, ensuring that our programs are effective, impactful, and aligned with the needs of the communities we serve.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar
Executive Director
Sunita Rao
Program Director
Ravi Kumar
Operations Manager
Anjali Sharma
Finance & Administration Head
Dr. Rajesh Kumar – Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Rajesh Kumar founded EFFORT with a vision to uplift the marginalized and create equitable opportunities for all. With over 25 years of experience in community development, he leads the organization’s strategic direction and works closely with local governments, partners, and communities to implement programs that create meaningful change. His leadership is rooted in a deep commitment to social justice and sustainable development.
Sunita Rao – Program Director
Sunita Rao oversees the planning, execution, and evaluation of EFFORT’s various programs. With a background in social work and development, Sunita has been instrumental in ensuring that our programs remain community-focused and are designed to address the specific needs of each area. She works tirelessly to ensure that every initiative we undertake delivers measurable results for those we serve.
Ravi Kumar – Operations Manager
As the Operations Manager, Ravi Kumar ensures that the day-to-day operations of EFFORT run smoothly. From managing resources to overseeing staff, he is responsible for ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all of EFFORT’s projects. Ravi has a strong background in project management and is skilled at coordinating logistics to ensure that our initiatives reach the communities that need them most.
Anjali Sharma – Finance & Administration Head
Anjali Sharma is responsible for managing the financial operations and administrative functions at EFFORT. She ensures that all funds are allocated efficiently and that all financial records are maintained accurately. Anjali brings over 15 years of financial management experience to the team and is dedicated to ensuring transparency and accountability in all of our financial dealings.
Pradeep Singh – Community Engagement Coordinator
Pradeep Singh plays a key role in building relationships with the communities we serve. He works directly with local leaders, volunteers, and beneficiaries to understand their needs, gather feedback, and encourage participation in our programs. Pradeep’s background in community outreach and his ability to engage people from diverse backgrounds make him a valuable asset to our team.
Meera Reddy – Women’s Empowerment Program Manager
Meera Reddy leads EFFORT’s initiatives focused on women’s empowerment. With a strong background in gender studies and social advocacy, Meera works closely with women in rural communities to promote financial independence, health, and education. She is passionate about helping women become leaders in their communities and advocates for policies that support gender equality.
Venkateshwar Rao – Environmental and Natural Resource Specialist
Venkateshwar Rao is responsible for guiding EFFORT’s programs related to environmental sustainability and natural resource management. With expertise in agriculture, environmental science, and conservation, he helps communities adopt sustainable farming practices, manage natural resources, and address environmental challenges. Venkateshwar’s work ensures that our programs align with sustainable development goals.
Lakshmi Devi – Health & Sanitation Program Manager
Lakshmi Devi manages EFFORT’s health and sanitation programs, ensuring that communities have access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services. She works with local health professionals and community members to implement preventive health practices, sanitation infrastructure, and awareness campaigns. Lakshmi’s dedication to improving public health has positively impacted thousands of lives in the communities we serve.
Suresh Kumar – Youth Development Officer
Suresh Kumar works with young people across our project areas to inspire leadership, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. He is responsible for developing programs that engage youth in skill-building, education, and volunteerism. Suresh’s work is aimed at fostering a new generation of change-makers who will help shape the future of their communities.
Real People With Honest Review
At Eco Foundation for Research and Training (EFFORT), we believe in the power of community voices. Our work has impacted countless lives, and the stories shared by those who have benefited from our programs inspire us to continue striving for change. Here, we share some of the heartfelt testimonials from individuals, communities, and partners who have experienced the transformative work of EFFORT.
Voices of Empowerment
“EFFORT helped me set up my own small business. I learned skills that allowed me to earn a living and support my family. I am grateful for the support I received from the Self-Help Group and the training provided. Today, I am not only financially independent, but I also feel more confident and empowered to make decisions for myself and my family.”
– Suma, Self-Help Group Member, Warangal District
Health and Well-Being
“Before EFFORT’s health programs, my family struggled with poor sanitation and frequent illness. After participating in the health awareness sessions, we were able to improve our hygiene practices and gain better access to healthcare. Our lives have significantly improved since then, and I now encourage my neighbors to join the health initiatives too.”
– Ramesh, Beneficiary of Health Program, Khammam District
Youth Development
“As a young person in a rural area, I never imagined I could have the opportunity to develop leadership skills and pursue my dreams. EFFORT’s youth development programs gave me the platform to learn new skills, meet inspiring mentors, and think beyond my limitations. Thanks to EFFORT, I have started my own small tech business and am now helping others in my community do the same.”
– Vishal, Youth Program Participant, Mahabubabad District
Women’s Empowerment
“I used to be dependent on others, but through EFFORT’s women’s development programs, I gained the knowledge and skills to create my own income. The Self-Help Group I am part of has been a great source of support, and now I am proud to contribute to my family’s income and support other women in my community. I am no longer afraid of challenges.”
– Lakshmi, Women’s Empowerment Program Participant, Khammam District
Community Building
“EFFORT’s work in our village has been nothing short of transformative. The community organization program helped us come together and address issues like water scarcity, sanitation, and access to education. Today, we are more united and better equipped to solve the problems that affect us. Our community feels stronger and more connected than ever.”
– Prakash, Community Leader, Warangal District
Environmental Awareness
“I learned the importance of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation through EFFORT’s natural resource management program. These initiatives have not only helped our farm become more productive, but also taught us how to protect our environment. My family’s quality of life has improved, and I now share this knowledge with other farmers in my area.”
– Ravi, Farmer and Environmental Advocate, Mahabubabad District