Natasha Rather

Lead – Child Development

Natasha Rather has been working with CHINAR International since 2023, bringing over 13 years of extensive experience in the development sector with national and international organizations. Specializing in program management, Natasha is committed to a rights-based approach to empowerment and development and using knowledge sharing and capacity building to garner change. Natasha’s areas of expertise include gender justice, child rights, community development and strategic communications. 

Khalid Hussain Wani

Project Coordinator – Child Development

Khalid joined CHINAR in 2023 and is currently serving as the Project Coordinator for the Child Development Program in the Kupwara district. With a Bachelor of Science degree from Islamia College, Khalid is now pursuing a Master’s in Literature from IGNOU to broaden his knowledge. He has been actively involved in addressing youth-related issues, particularly substance abuse, and understands its sensitivity. Before joining CHINAR, Khalid gained significant experience in the development sector as a Coordinator for KARVAN, an amalgamation of various NGOs and trusts.

Rameez Farooq Qureshi

Project Coordinator – Youth Development

Rameez is a dynamic individual with a rich and extensive experience of 12 years in skill development. Holding a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Kashmir, he has worked on various livelihood projects, which have further enhanced his exposure and knowledge in the field. He is well-versed in the challenges currently facing the youth of Kashmir, such as unemployment and drug addiction. With a goal to address these issues and work towards the betterment of the youth, Rameez joined CHINAR International in 2023 as a Project Coordinator in Youth Development. For Rameez, working at CHINAR has been dynamic, as he feels there is something new to learn every day, which aids his personal growth and fosters a strong team spirit.

Dawood Rashid

MIS Coordinator

Dawood has always been passionate about information technology. With a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Dehradun, Dawood has had a vast experience of over 5 years in Management Information System. Additionally, his certification in the Google Data Analytics Programme has further enhanced his abilities in the IT sector.

Dawood’s career began to take shape at the Centre for Health Research and Innovation, an organization supported by The Global Fund for National Tuberculosis Elimination Program. His innovative data management skills, combined with his knack for learning and leading in information technology, eventually led him to CHINAR International as a Management Information Systems (MIS) Coordinator.

Abid Qadri

Director

Abid Qadri is a Global Technology Solutions and Services Executive with over 20 years of experience providing strategic leadership, scaling businesses, and achieving operational efficiencies along with assembling and managing teams in the global technology and telecommunications marketplace.

Over his career Abid has worked for multinational companies including Wipro, Tata Group, Orange Business Services, to name a few, across different countries. Abid has held direct oversight of multimillion dollar budgets, adding to revenue that scaled to $400m+, and leading diverse global teams of 250+ people.

Experienced in effective and organization-wide influence to build consensus across key stakeholders, Abid brings decades of experience in using people skills, technology, and processes to enhance organizations’ performances while maintaining a strong commitment to integrity and accountability.

As a Co-Founder of Child Nurture and Relief, Abid has been an integral part of the organization through its formative years (2003-2012) and acted as an Officer. He rejoined the board in 2024.

Umair Rashid

Community Mobilizer – Parvaaz

Umair Rashid completed his B.A. (Hons.) and Master’s in Economics from Aligarh Muslim University. Umair’s motivation to take up this field stems from a deep-seated desire to bring about meaningful change in communities and address pressing social issues. Witnessing the impact of social inequalities firsthand inspired him to contribute actively towards development and upliftment, particularly in underprivileged areas. He has extensively written about and highlighted diverse social issues in newspapers. Umair joined CHINAR International in 2023 as a Community Mobilizer for the PARVAAZ project in Shopian. In his role with CHINAR International, Umair has been a key contributor in implementing and managing community-driven initiatives in the local areas of Shopian district.

Aijaz Rasool

Assistant Project Coordinator – Quality Education

Aijaz Rasool completed his BA at Government Degree College Pulwama. He volunteered with the National Service Scheme at the University of Kashmir for two years and also worked part-time with four additional local NGOs, particularly during crises and emergencies. He served as a General Line Teacher for five months at Muslim Model Educational Trust High School in Pulwama. Additionally, he worked for one and a half years on the UNICEF-supported Child Friendly Spaces/Adolescent Resource Center (CFS/ARC) project with the Jammu & Kashmir Association of Social Workers. Aijaz’s journey at CHINAR International began as an Assistant Project Coordinator for Warwan in August 2023. His commitment to community service has always been remarkable. He is now promoted to Project Coordinator for Warwan under Quality Education.

Kulsum Ashraf

Community Mobilizer – Parvaaz

Kulsum Ashraf, a native of Palpora in Srinagar, pursued her higher education in Nawakadal, Srinagar. With a professional journey spanning over seven years, she has contributed her skills and dedication to various organizations, including SOS Children’s Village, Child line, Mother’s Dream, and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). In August 2022, Kulsum joined CHINAR International as a CLC Facilitator and was later promoted to Community Mobilizer under PARVAAZ. Alongside her professional endeavors, she resumed her studies and is currently enrolled in a BSW course at Amar Singh College through IGNOU. Operating within the spheres of Quality Education, Child Development, and Youth Development, Kulsum has been actively involved in uplifting communities and conducting comprehensive assessments to assist the most deserving families. Fueled by determination and a strong work ethic, her aspiration is to advance further in her career and contribute significantly to the continued growth and success of the organization.

Uzma Fayaz

Assistant Project Coordinator – Quality Education

Uzma Fayaz has been an educator for the past five years and is currently working at CHINAR International as an Assistant Project Coordinator, Quality Education. She is from Shehri-e-Khas, Srinagar, and holds a Postgraduate degree in Linguistics and a B.Ed. from the University of Kashmir. Uzma is driven by the belief that she can make a real difference in children’s lives through quality education. She sees the benefits of her role as multi-faceted, primarily finding satisfaction in contributing to society by helping children receive quality education, which, in turn, allows them to evolve and grow.

Asif Rehram

Assistant Project Coordinator – Parvaaz

From a young age, Asif was passionate about helping children and his community. This deep-seated passion ultimately guided him to pursue a career in this field. The University of Kashmir’s Department of Social Work is where Asif Rehman finished his master’s degree. Asif has a wealth of expertise in dealing with communities for bringing social transformation, especially working in remote and challenging areas. In order to coordinate the district operations of Anantnag and Kulgam in South Kashmir, Asif joined CHINAR International in April 2023. Additionally, in a highly challenging and isolated location in the Warwan area of the Kishtwar district, Asif worked to mobilize the masses for social change.

Javaid Malik

Project Coordinator – Quality education

Javaid Malik joined CHINAR International in May 2022 as a project coordinator for Quality Education Program. He brings more than three years of experience working in education through the “Skill India” program, where he worked within communities to spread awareness about community transformation and the importance of providing education to children. As a certified trainer under the “Retailers Association’s Skill Council of India,” Malik trained multiple batches under the program by imparting vocational education training to deserving individuals.
Despite being young, dynamic, and full of energy, Malik took on the challenge of working on foundational education in Warwan, a remote area in the Kishtwar district with limited communication, electricity, and road connectivity. During the summers, Malik spends a considerable amount of time in Warwan Valley to strengthen CHINAR’s “Warwan Valley Community Transformation Program.”
With his experience and dedication, he is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of children and youth in remote areas of J&K

Bashir Ahmad

Senior Project Coordinator (Parvaaz)

Bashir has extensive professional experience spanning over 18 years, having worked in various organizations such as the Centre for Health Research and Innovations, International Committee of the Red Cross, Hope Disability Centre, Handicap International, and Medicines Sans Frontiers. During this time, he has held diverse roles such as LTBI coordinator, economic security generalist, project MIS officer, project MIS assistant, and data entry officer. Bashir holds a Bachelor’s degree and has undergone professional training in result-based management, leading a team, and microeconomic initiatives. Additionally, he possesses technical skills in Microsoft Office, internet browsing, and database management.
Currently, Bashir is a Senior Project Coordinator for Child Development under the PARVAAZ project at CHINAR International.

Zafar Iqbal

Project coordinator – Youth development

Zafar Iqbal is a Project Coordinator for Youth Development at CHINAR International with a wealth of experience in the field. With a career spanning 10 years and multiple organizations, Zafar is highly skilled in preparing PPRs and DPRs and mobilizing communities through dialogue, awareness raising, and using PRA/RRA tools to identify local problems and solutions. Zafar’s expertise lies in research, training, evaluation, and community mobilization. He has worked with a range of organizations, and his experience has equipped him with the ability to take on complex challenges. Zafar is passionate about using his skills and knowledge to challenge the status quo and make a positive difference in the world.

Gulzar Wani

Lead Quality Education

Gulzar has completed his post-graduation in International Peace and Conflict Studies (Islamic University of Kashmir), and in rural development (IGNOU, Kashmir). Having over 10 years’ experience in the Humanitarian sector, he has extensively worked towards sustainable livelihood, mental health, disaster relief and emergency response programs. He has worked with both National and International NGOs like Action Aid, IGSSS, ICRC and RedR India. Gulzar has been delivering training on diverse themes like DRR, Child protection, water & sanitation, youth leadership, communication and conflict transformation for the last three 3 years.

Dr. Sawleha Qadir

Project coordinator, Quality education

Dr. Sawleha Qadir is a veterinarian with Master’s degree in Veterinary Sciences. Before joining CHINAR, she worked as a Lecturer in Veterinary college. She is very passionate about teaching. She joined CHINAR in 2021 as Project Coordinator under Quality Education Program. Her joining in CHINAR has made the CHINAR team more diverse. Sawleha is an active, young, dynamic lady full of energy with an obsession to serve people especially the marginalized children. She has immense management qualities and has established strong rapport with students and teachers of Community Learning Centers.

Waheed Bhat

Office/ transport associate

Waheed joined CHINAR International in the year 2021 as a driver cum office associate and is now responsible for office security and maintenance as well. He is a reliable person and is keen to learn more and develop new skills. Travelling with him makes every trip memorable with his meticulous approach. Along with routine office work, he aspires to pursue a master’s degree in social work (MSW) and is currently in 2nd year of his college. He is a very hard-working boy and loves to engage in multiple tasks. Waheed is a fitness freak and loves to work out in his spare time.

Hanief Ahmad Bhat

Assistant Project Coordinator - Youth Development

Hanief Ahmad Bhat hails from Gadakhud village located in Bandipora district. Hanief has completed a Masters degree in Urdu from Moulana Azad National Urdu University and B.Ed. from Tahira Khanums College of Education, and is currently pursuing MSW from IGNOU. Having over 8 years of experience in the development sector, Hanief has worked on multiple projects like youth development, disaster management, relief and rehabilitation and sustainable livelihood development programs in Baramulla and Bandipora districts. He worked at IGSSS for 6 years to deliver sessions on leadership, life skills, communication, self-awareness, gender, and disaster management, PRI micro-plans development at village and panchayat levels and livelihood.

Also please resolve the spacing issue of profiles – Salma’s profile has huge spacing between two paras. Kindly check the rest of the profiles for spacing issues.

Dr Masood Hassan

Director

Dr Masood Hassan is a native of Kashmir and obtained his BSEE in 1971 from Kashmir University. He got admitted to West Virginia University (WVU) in the U.S. in 1974 to pursue his post-graduate studies. He obtained his MSEE in 1976, and his PhD. in 1979.

After his graduation from WVU, Dr. Hassan pursued a career in industry. He moved out West to Los Angeles, California and joined Jet Propulsion Labs in Pasadena CA and then to the Bechtel Corporation.

Dr. Hassan joined Teledyne Controls in 1983 as a Senior Member of Technical Staff. He worked in various engineering and business development assignments before being promoted in 2000 to lead the company as the Vice President/ General Manager and then President. Under his leadership, Teledyne Controls grew to be the leader of the Big Data and the Digital revolution in the commercial aviation industry. Its products enjoy about a whopping 75% market share within the air transport category of Boeing and Airbus commercial airplanes. He also led Teledyne Controls to be among the most profitable of the 30+ companies that constitute Teledyne Technologies.

He retired form Teledyne in 2019. In April 2021 he was inducted into the WVU School of Engineering Academy of Distinguished Alumni. He is currently involved in promoting Educational and Charitable ventures for deserving and needy youth in his native Kashmir.

Dr. Mushtaq Margoob

Advisor

Dr. Mushtaq A. Margoob, – Former Professor & Head, Post Graduate Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College, Srinagar and Director Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Srinagar, Kashmir is an internationally recognized expert on humanitarian emergencies and disaster mental health . Dr. Margoob’s research work encompasses a wide range of topics ranging from seasonal mood disorders to drug use problems and stress. Over the past 28 years besides behavioral neurosciences, the focus of his work has been on coping, resilience and vulnerability following traumatic stress resulting from man-made and natural disasters in the developing world and its impact on the individuals as well as communities as a whole. Dr Margoob is currently on the Editorial board of two international and two national journals including the Indian Journal of Psychiatry. He is a member/fellow of a number of international professional bodies.

Mehraj-ud- din Kar

Field Monitor, Kupwara

One of the most experienced and well versed with CHINAR programs is Mehraj from Handwara. He has been associated with CHINAR as Field Monitor since its initial years. Mehraj is not only monitoring his assigned areas but also acts as a key person for other monitors of the district. Because of his close association with communities and various stakeholders, he is one of the respectful people in the area. He was fond of football but lost his left arm in an unfortunate accident. This incident still haunts his soul but didn’t kill the fire of passion in him. After the incident, he spends most of his time supporting the needy.

Tariq Ahmad

Monitor and teacher, Kupwara

Tariq Ah has been working with CHINAR International since 2014 and then in 2020 was given the responsibility of Field Monitor. He has qualified 10th and is Hifz-e-Quran (Memorizer of Quran) which makes him one of the famous and authentic persons of the area. Since his association with the CHINAR, he has enthusiastically taken part in every activity benefitting children and communities. Besides his involvement in social work activities, he likes to go for long drives.

Salma

Monitor and teacher, Budgam

Salma Malik, a young girl from the remote area of Budgam is one of few options for teaching children. Currently, Salma is pursuing Bachelors in Arts and the community mostly

approaches her to provide basic education to children. She was appointed as monitor and teacher in the year 2020. Apart from teaching, Salma likes to read and cook.

Ghulam Mohammad Gorsi

Field monitor, Shopian

Ghulam Mohammad Gorsi joined CHINAR in the year 2011 and he is presently working as Field Monitor for the Shopian district. Gorsi connects well with communities and speaks fluent Gojri language. He is a great speaker at community mobilization events. Over the years, he has gained tremendous respect and trust from the families enrolled in the child development program.

Mohammad Rafi

Mess incharge and office associate

Rafi joined CHINAR International in the year 2020 as a Mess incharge and now works as an office associate as well. Rafi cooks delicious food and manages housekeeping duties at office.

As an office associate, he takes in printing and delivery of documents. Rafi is a true entertainer and spreads smiles everywhere with his jokes.

Iqra Qayoom

Project coordinator – Child development

Iqra Qayoom – a young and energetic lady, joined CHINAR International as a Project Coordinator under the Child development program. She completed her master’s in social work from Kashmir university. Being a professional social worker, she has worked with multiple child related projects supported by UNICEF. Iqra is among the best choices when it comes to building rapport with the communities. She has attended many trainings relevant to development and protection of children.

In her leisure time, Iqra listens to Sufi music and likes cooking and reading as well.

Zeba Durrani

Advisor

Zeba is a technology leader at Fannie Mae, responsible for transforming and modernizing the customer facing portfolio of applications focusing on business process, digitization, UI/UX and customer enrichment. Zeba has an Engineering degree from the University of Kashmir combined with an MBA from the University of British Columbia. Outside of daily work, Zeba is passionate about the advancement of women in Technology and an active member of the WIT advisory board for her company.

Zeba gives a lot of her time to mentor women both within and outside of Fannie Mae and engages in events across the industry. On the lighter side, she writes a food blog that brings global recipes (including Kashmiri) to the digital world.

Shireen Qadri

Director

Shireen Qadri is an independent business woman. Previously, she was a co-founder of Pilot Advisors, L.P., a registered investment advisor. She has also worked as an equity analyst for the value arm of Balis Lewittes& Coleman, Inc., an equity analyst at Glickenhaus & Co., and Goldman Sachs & Co. in the Equity Research department focusing on the cable, advertising and broadcasting industries. Shireen received her B.S., B.A., and M.S.F.S from Georgetown University.

Zeeshan Hussain

Field Officer

Zeeshan joined CHINAR International in the year 2014 as an office boy and now works as a field monitor for Srinagar district. Zeeshan is an example of a child of conflict and a broken education system. He kept going to school till grade 10th without learning much and hence failed in the exams. In CHINAR, he found a wholesome environment and support. He finally passed his matriculation and a couple of years later passed his 12th exam as well and is now enrolled in Gandhi College. Over the years, Zeeshan has gained knowledge about the social sector and is inspired by CHINAR’s mission. He now aspires to pursue a master’s degree in social work (MSW) course post-graduation. Besides monitoring Srinagar district, Zeeshan is also responsible for office security.

He is a very hard-working boy and enjoys playing cricket.

Imtiyaz Malik

Lead - Transport & Security

In 2012, Imtiyaz Malik joined CHINAR International as a driver and now is responsible for office security, transport and maintenance. Imtiyaz may not have received formal schooling, but over the years he has developed good knowledge about the social sector. He understands and believes in CHINAR’s mission and is at the forefront of most CHINAR projects. He was there during the floods of 2014, past lockdowns and hartals in Kashmir. Imtiyaz is an exceptional driver who knows the roads and lanes of Kashmir.Team loves to travel with him as he makes every trip enjoyable and full of fun.Besides managing field trips,he is also responsible for office security.

He is an all-rounder who will lend his hands to anything – packing kits, loading, cooking, photography, etc.

Falak Lone

Senior Project Coordinator - Youth Development and Finance

Falak has done Masters in business administration with specialisation in IT and marketing from Kashmir University. Before joining CHINAR International, she interned with local corporates like JK Bank, Reliance Jio Ltd and hotel industry. She is highly passionate towards empowering Kashmiri youth to make them self-reliant and independent leaders.

She also interned with CHINAR International, which further motivated her to join the organisation. Under youth development, she runs various programs like business incubation, skill development centres, E-Labs, etc. As a finance coordinator, she maintains financial records and ensures smooth transactional processes.

She believes that no job is as worthy and satisfying as working for the welfare of the society.

Manshah

Senior Project Coordinator – Youth Development

Manshah joined in 2018 as an intern and now is a Senior Project Coordinator – Youth Development. Manshah holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Kashmir University. She left her Tech school in Mumbai and came back to Kashmir to serve people of her own community. She is passionate about bringing healing to people with traumatic stories and giving them a chance to create better stories. Besides working in education, she is also a part of CHINAR’s E-Lab Program at higher secondary schools.

Always looking to brush her skills, she loves to travel, cook food and meet new people.

Ambreen Arif

Senior Project Coordinator – Quality Education

Ambreen joined as an intern in 2018 and now is a Senior Project Coordinator – Quality Education under our education program – managing Shopian, Pulwama and Srinagar districts. Ambreen believes, “Compassion to serve is real devotion in true means’. She pursued Masters in Social Work to equip herself with the art of understanding and assessing various vulnerabilities of society. During her internship at CHINAR, she realized the true value of humanism and affection to people. While working with schools, she could explore her rapport building skills and engage children in learning activities.

Haris Aziz

Senior Project Coordinator - Media and IT

Haris Aziz has completed his master’s in mass communication from IGNOU regional center Srinagar. He is a creative video editor and motion graphics artist with an excellent eye for detail and a deep passion for filming and animation. Before joining CHINAR, Haris worked with many media agencies as video editor and accomplished numerous freelance projects.

Mouzam Fayaz

Lead Media and Operations

Mozam joined CHINAR International in 2016 as a Media Coordinator and now leads the media team. His role revolves around creating impactful stories of change through pictures, videos, documentaries, etc. using his technical skills and knowledge. Prior to joining the organization, Mozam worked with multiple national and international media channels and gained huge experience in creating impactful stories. Working in a social sector for the first time, Mozam quickly adapted to CHINAR International’s environment and work culture and now is the favourite teammate. Muazam also manages procurement and ensures protocols are being followed religiously.

Mozam is thrilled to have a job that allows him to use diverse skills and explore his creativity. He tries to put heart and soul into his work and believes that it shows in his photographs.

Roauf Khanday

District Field Manager - Shopian and Pulwama

Rouf joined in 2011 as a field monitor and now is a District Coordinator, managing three districts – Shopian, Pulwama and Kishtwar. Rouf holds a Master’s in social work and different certifications in computer software. Rouf is passionate about helping the rural and needy sections of society. He is a good listener and encourages people to reach their potential by understanding their strengths. Rouf is an ace photographer and is a part of the media team at CHINAR International.

Rouf will be soon publishing his coffee table book – a dream come true.

Mehreen Khan

Assistant Lead – Child Development

Mehreen joined CHINAR International during Kashmir floods in 2014 as a nodal person in Delhi and now works in multiple capacities – Assistant Lead – Child Development. Mehreen has completed her Master’s in Finance and Control from University of Kashmir and is dedicated towards working for the underprivileged. She previously worked with an NGO called Centre for Social Justice, also interned with the Reserve Bank of India. During floods 2014, she did a commendable job in coordinating all the relief consignments coming from India and USA. Over the years, she has taken up many different responsibilities with great success. Mehreen is also responsible for logistics during events, workshops, meetings and office trips. On procurement side, she has developed strong SOPs which are being followed religiously under her supervision.

Afifa Lone

Assistant Director – Programs and Communications

Afifa joined in 2012 as a Project Coordinator and is now working as Assistant Director – Programs and Communications. Holding a Master’s degree in social work, Afifa has done practical work on social issues like drug addiction, child protection and reproductive child health. Previously, she worked as a Research Associate for Indian Council of Medical Research-funded project on autism and Counselling Supportive Supervisor for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Counselling Program (GFATM). Through all these years, she has worked in multiple capacities across CHINAR’s core intervention areas. Networking, proposals, internships and evaluation are part of her role including all publications – annual reports, newsletters, brochures. Besides, she also manages social media and website. Afifa yearns to learn more every day and develop new skills. She has been working passionately towards CHINAR’s mission since years and named as Afifa CHINAR by many. Calling herself a social doctor, she believes social work nourishes her soul.

When operating from Delhi, Afifa becomes the nodal person when lockdown happens in Kashmir especially when connectivity is cut in Kashmir.

Javeed Ahmad

Assistant Director – Programs and Operations

In 2011, Javeed joined CHINAR International as a researcher and since then has progressed to Assistant Director – Programs and Operations. Having a Master’s degree in finance and control, Javeed has hands-on experience in financial auditing. Before joining CHINAR International, Javeed tried several options to realize his potential as a key player in challenging, dynamic and creative environments, and believes his quest completed at CHINAR International. He has been on the forefront of CHINAR International’s crisis relief work since the floods of 2014. Under his supervision, CHINAR International’s external audits have been error free for the past six years. Javeed is an energetic and enthusiastic young leader with a passion to serve society. With his strong leadership skills, Javeed leads the team on ground in an exemplary manner.

Dr. Zahida Shah

CEO

Pioneer in lifestyle disorders and obesity management, Dr. Zahida is born and brought up in Kashmir. Dr. Zahida completed her MBBS from the Government Medical College, Srinagar, in 1995. In Kashmir, she has worked in both government and private sectors. Having witnessed and lived through the consequences of conflict, she always felt the worst victims of the conflict were the women and children. In her passion to live her dream and contribute to women’s health, she chose to give up a government job and established her own private clinic by the name “Mother care clinic in 2003. The clinic, which was much needed in these times, aimed at a holistic approach to women’s

health that included education, prevention, rehabilitation, and treatment of lifestyle and psychosocial disease among women. Dr Zahida has closely worked and always ready to work with any organization that shares the same aim and passion.

Dr. M Ishaq

Director - Community Outreach & Engagement

Dr. Mohammad Ishaq is a well-established biological researcher in the United States with over 30 years of experience at prominent US-based institutions. He is currently a senior researcher at the Leidos Biomedical Research in Frederick, MD, an affiliate of the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health. He earned his Master’s in Biochemistry from Lucknow University (India), Ph.D. in Biochemistry from J.N. Medical College, AMU (India) and postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Before coming to the U.S., he taught Biochemistry at the Govt Medical College (Kashmir) where he also managed the clinical laboratory of the department, and also served as a Senior Resident in the Clinical Biochemistry Department at the SKIMS (Kashmir). He is passionate about Kashmir and believes that social engagement and empowerment can alleviate the suffering of the marginalized communities.

Bazillah Zargar

Director - Marketing & Design

Born in Kashmir and raised in Canada, Bazillah holds a B.M.Sc., Honors Specialization in Medical Science from Western University and is currently pursuing a B.Sc., Honors Specialization in Computer Science from the same institution. She is passionate about technology, understanding how it works and the potential impacts that technological developments can have on society. She enjoys engaging in creative projects where she can create and build something unique using a combination of her knowledge of software development and her eye for digital design. Bazillah is a strong advocate for equal rights and opportunities for all and strives to make a positive impact in people’s lives. She firmly believes that everyone should do what they can, within their means, to support those less fortunate and is a particularly avid supporter of humanitarian efforts in her motherland Kashmir. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and baking healthy-ish versions of desserts to share with her loved ones.

Tabasum Bandey

Director - Communication & Public Relations

Tabasum Bandey is a Licensed Professional Engineer in Canada with more than 25 years of engineering experience (including 20+ years in Canada) in the field of Electrical Engineering & Engineering Management/Leadership. She completed her Engineering degree in Electronics & Communication from NIT Srinagar and moved to Canada in the late 1990’s after spending a few years in the Middle East. Like it is for most of the immigrants who have the courage to leave home to explore the world, she also faced challenges in embracing a different culture while maintaining strong ties with her roots & motherland. Tabasum – a Kashmiri by heart and soul believes in teamwork, continuous improvement & growth and is delighted to see the second generation of Kashmiris involved as young leaders. She enjoys gardening and cooking in her spare time.

Farooq Syed

Advisor

Farooq grew up in Kashmir where he attended Kashmir University for his Bachelors in Electrical Engineering. He attended City University of New York for his Masters in Computer Science. He works for an international development bank in Washington DC. Farooq has been part of the All Dulles Area Muslim Society – ADAMS community in Northern Virginia since 2000. He has served ADAMS in the capacity of Secretary, Vice-President, and President. He is currently co-chair of ADAMS Zakat Services Committee and ADAMS By-laws committee. He also served on the board of ADAMS Compassionate Healthcare Network, a free medical clinic in Chantilly, Virginia. He was also a board member of ADAMS Endowment Fund for several years. Farooq has been married for 20+ years and has 4 children.

Irfan Shahmiri

Director - Founder & Global Executive Director

After spending around two decades in corporate America, Irfan quit his job at Microsoft in 2011 to focus full time on CHINAR. Previously, he worked for US companies – DEC, Compaq, HP, and Fannie Mae.

Irfan has been instrumental in the progress of CHINAR being the chief architect both in USA and India. He runs a tight ship and has aggressively moved CHINAR into one of the top non-profits of J&K. He is driven to develop solutions that address the root cause of the problem related to youth and children of conflict – solutions that are sustainable, cost effective, scalable and high impact. Solid in principles and relentless in his pursuit for large scale social impact, Irfan envisions CHINAR to be one of the leaders in nonprofit space.

Irfan grew up in Kashmir, India. Education – BE from (NIT) Kashmir University, Srinagar (J&K) and MS from University of Florida, Gainesville. He is a founding member of both CHINAR organizations (VA, USA – 2003 and Srinagar, India – 2011).