FOUNDER'S MESSAGE

Shalin Reethas, the driving force behind the Mother Teresa Foundation Trust, embodies the spirit of ‘giving.’ From humble beginnings to overcoming hardships in pursuit of a decent living for all, Shalin’s life story is not just admirable but awe-inspiring.

Shalin was the eldest boy in the family and shared a thatched roof along with four of his siblings. Shalin’s father who was a fisherman, struggled as the sole breadwinner. Shalin’s journey to Trichy for his undergraduate degree was both a pursuit of education and a means to support his family. It was there that he discovered his passion for helping deserving youth continue their studies. Working part-time as a waiter and utilising breaks for lucrative opportunities in places like Goa, Shalin channelled his earnings to  support families lacking resources for textbooks and uniforms.

After moving to Bangalore for a job, Shalin continued his efforts to support the kids back in Trichy in every way possible. Balancing his daytime job, he worked weekends delivering newspapers, cleaning taxis and undertaking various other endeavours to supplement his income. This extra income served not only to sustain himself but also to contribute to the causes he championed.

Later, he moved to Kerala to pursue another job but Shalin knew he had to earn more to do more. But to earn more, Shalin was clear that he had to pursue his academic goals. With eyes set on the prize, Shalin started working towards his dream university, The London School of Economics (LSE). With a steadfast determination to attend The London School of Economics (LSE), Shalin faced rejection four times. Undeterred, he persevered and secured admission on his fifth attempt, becoming the first in his family to study at LSE.

Currently dividing his time between India and Germany, Shalin remains dedicated to  impacting lives. He consolidated his efforts under the Mother Teresa Foundation Trust, extending his vision of fostering education and positive change for the next generation and their families.