An inclusive society values each person's potential and works to remove barriers that limit opportunities for anyone. Bethany Society works to promote equity and inclusion among socio-economically disadvantaged groups (SEDGs), especially children and adults with disabilities in remote rural areas of Meghalaya and Northeast India. The Society's journey reflects its vision of “Humans and Earth Fully Alive”. The NGO has employed critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and compassion to identify key gaps, particularly in leveraging technology for sustainable development. They continue to uncover opportunities for improving strategies and enhancing the impact of Bethany Society’s initiatives in underserved communities.
Bethany Society, Meghalaya
Ricky Renthlei, currently serving as the Director of Livelihood at Bethany Society, has been a dedicated professional in the field of rural development and environmental conservation for over two decades. Holding a BSc in Life Science from North Eastern Hills University and an MSc in Environment from IGNOU, Ricky has pursued advanced studies and certifications in rural development, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and biodiversity conservation from prestigious institutions in India, Japan, South Korea, and the USA. His extensive career at Bethany Society began in 2003, where he progressed through various leadership roles, including Programme Officer, Senior Programme Coordinator, and Director of Roilang Livelihood Academy. His contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Excellence Award from the United Nations Environment Programme for his research on biodiversity conservation.
Joshua Phanwar, has an MBA from IIM Bangalore and has been a Management Consultant with firms like PwC, worked in Corporate Finance and also has experience as a start up entrepreneur in the IT space. He is currently a consultant with Bethany Society and is also into natural farming and testing out rural technologies at his farm in Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya