Grassroot is a registered Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) that is committed to work with communities from an Indigenous Rights and Gender perspective. It was formed on July 27, 2007 with the purpose of addressing injustices that impedes human rights and to protect, defend and promote indigenous peoples’ rights. Grassroot works to empower indigenous people through capacity building, skills development activities, sustainable livelihood programmes, women & youth empowerment and advocacy. We exist to ensure equal accessibility, responsibility and opportunities that are sustainable for everyone. The Objectives we work on involve various sectors, ranging from Culture & Tradition, Youth, Livelihood and Advocacy.
OUR TEAM
Mayfereen Ryntathiang
Mayfereen is one of the of the founding members of the Grassroot. She has completed the Human Rights and Leadership study from Colombia University. She has received scholarships from Million Kisses Foundation, USA and FAO, Italy for documentation of the Khasi folklore and Herbal medicine practices respectively.
She is passionate about the work that she does and is especially passionate towards working on Indigenous issues with Indigenous people.
Manosha Diengdoh
I graduated from St. Mary’s College with a degree in Geography. I believe in kindness and perseverance and embrace continuous growth, challenges, and small victories. Joining Grassroot has given me a sense of contributing to something bigger. In my past roles, I supported day-to-day operations, including administrative tasks, data management, and project coordination, while fostering a dynamic learning environment and promoting critical thinking.
Kenny
Graduated from Martin Luther Christian University, Specialize in Nutrition and Health Education.I am very new to the social sector but I've always had a passion to work with people and to improve lives. Joining Grassroot had encourages me to succeed and grow professionally where I can utilize my skills and knowledge appropriately.
Skills: Ability to work independently or as a team, creativity and passion for work, willingness to learn and assist any work provided.
Motto: Be Kind to all Kinds.
Lapynsuk Marbaniang
I hold a Master’s degree in Commerce, specializing in Accounts and Taxation, from Assam Don Bosco University, Azara, Guwahati.
Although new to the social sector, I am highly enthusiastic about making a positive impact in communities and contributing my skills and experience at the grassroots level.
Megan Delarisa Syiem
A compassionate social work professional with a degree in Medical and Psychiatric Social Work, she has hands-on experience addressing complex community and health challenges.
As a counselor at the Voluntary Health Association of Meghalaya (VHAM), she empowers female injecting drug users through psychosocial support. Guided by empathy and resilience, she is deeply committed to advancing health, equity, and dignity for all.
R K Paul Chawang
A dedicated social worker and environmental advocate from Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, he leads AMYAA, an NGO promoting education, livelihood, and environmental protection. As an Acumen India Fellow, he has spearheaded initiatives like the Himalayan Cleanup Drive, working with communities and agencies to uphold indigenous rights and sustainable development.
Jeney Lyngkhoi
A compassionate and dedicated Social Work graduate from Martin Luther Christian University, specializing in Family and Child Welfare. Committed to supporting vulnerable children and empowering families through empathy and early intervention. Becoming part of the grassroot has helped me stay closely connected with the community and contribute to uplifting its people.
Saphibanrisa Thangkhiew
I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from St. Edmund’s College, Shillong. I believe in the power of empathy, kindness, and understanding in creating meaningful change. I am passionate about working with people and supporting them to find strength within themselves. For me, social work is not just a profession—it’s a way to build connections, inspire hope, and make a difference in people’s lives.
K NCITUBE WHITING
A Master’s in Social Work student from Senapati district of Manipur, and deeply rooted in the cultural richness of the community. With a passion for creating positive change, also driven to address social issues and empower marginalized groups and eagerness to apply the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the community and beyond
OUR Fellows
Arelcy Lyngdoh
Hailing from Laitkseh, I serve as the Secretary of the women’s group in my village. My mission is to promote community development by working with the youth to protect women’s rights and create employment opportunities for young people.
Palayan Marwein
Hailing from Mawkohngei village, I serve as the Secretary of the women’s group in my community. I also hold the positions of Secretary of my Self-Help Group (SHG) and President of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), working actively for community development and empowerment.
Wandaka Ksoo
Hailing from Mudumai village in West Jaintia Hills District, I am a member of the SHG and have participated in several village projects after training with Action Aid. My primary goal is to develop my village by implementing a project to improve the water supply and address water scarcity.
Idea T. Chyrmang
Hailing from Myntdu village in West Jaintia Hills, she is an active NRLM member and Action Aid fellow dedicated to community development. Her focus is on empowering women and the elderly to access their rightful benefits, raising awareness of citizens’ rights, and advocating for better roads to improve connectivity in her village.
Laitlin Lyngdoh
I am working as the president of a women’s group in my community as well as in Mawthadraishan Block. My goal is to strengthen the community’s understanding of Indigenous people’s rights, promote agricultural farming, and address related issues to find effective solutions.
Riteilang Khongrangjem
An Indigenous documentary photographer and storyteller from the misty hills of Meghalaya, deeply rooted in the Khasi tribe’s matrilineal heritage. Dedicated to preserving traditions and advocating for Indigenous rights, the work focuses on research and visual storytelling that highlights the connection between people, culture, and nature.
Britstar Marsing
A dedicated Fellow from Mawtari Thaiang, Ri Bhoi District. Also the Chairmain of the Mawtari Thaiang V.E.C
Akumtong Imchen
A young fellow Anthropologist hailing from the Land of Pioneers called Mokokchung under Nagaland State. Working as a Research Assistant at The Highland Institute, Kohima. He is also a member of Tribal Design Forum organisation, working as a Youth Ambassador.
Dapi Miwu
I’m Miss Dapi Miwu from Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. I am currently working on reviving and promoting Idu Mishmi traditional textiles, with a strong focus on empowering women artisans and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region. My work aims to preserve the cultural heritage of the Idu Mishmi community while adapting traditional weaving practices to meet modern demands.
Jasmine Deb Jamatia
Presently working on documentation of Karbong and Bongcher communities of Tripura that are on the higher risk of becoming extinct and are among lesser known communities. I work as a freelancer presently and mostly take up translation, proof reading works from private and state government departments(in Kokborok language) as well as take up field work related projects from different platforms.. I have more than 8 years of working experience in news field in different platforms working as a news presenter for local news channels and as a contractual junior correspondent cum journalist for Directorate of Information and Cultural Affairs, Government of Tripura. I take my tasks as source to expand my learning and hope that my outputs work as a catalyst for the betterment of the society. summarize more short
We are a passionate team of young and vibrant minds who explores potentiality and ideas to cater to the welfare and rights of the indigenous people of the state. We believe in accessibility, responsibility, and equal opportunities for everyone. Our mission is to sustain and tap the community’s resources and to empower them individually and socially.
Our Address
Nongkseh Kynton (Above Bapaka Departmental Store) Shillong – 793005, Meghalaya, India