SER Staff Liaison
Keith (SER):
Keith MacCallum joined SER as a contractor in January 2020, supporting initiatives of the Membership Director, Program Manager, and Executive Director. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, an Ecosystem Restoration Graduate Certificate from Niagara College, and a Master of Science in Ecological Restoration from Simon Fraser University/British Columbia Institute of Technology. A SER member since 2016, Keith has been actively involved with several regional and student chapters and has maintained his Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT) designation since 2017. His commitment to ecological restoration is demonstrated through his involvement in various regional initiatives. Though frequently mobile in his work, Keith maintains strong ties to his hometown of Alma, New Brunswick.
Make a Difference Week Committee
Bidhan Chandra Pal (Chair):
Bidhan Chandra Pal is a leading figure in climate change response, bringing over 25 years of expertise in driving restoration initiatives and addressing critical environmental challenges. As the Founder and Managing Director of Probha Aurora, a sustainable green enterprise, he inspires youth and fosters environmental education while spearheading innovative adaptation and mitigation solutions for environmental and climate issues. Under his leadership, Probha Aurora is the sole national operator in Bangladesh for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) programme, recognized as the world's largest environmental education organization by UNESCO and UNEP. Bidhan is also an active member of the Society for Ecological Restoration and contributes to the Asia Network. Additionally, he serves on the Executive Council of the Center for Urban Studies (CUS) and the Global Climate and Health Alliance, and he is an International Board Member of the Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN). Through his dedication, Bidhan Chandra Pal significantly advances environmental restoration and sustainability efforts.
- Phone:+8801730715222
- Email:bidhan.probhaaurora@gmail.com
Advisory Subcommittee
Dr. Sattar Mandal (Chair):
Professor M. A. Sattar Mandal has been a leading agricultural economist involved in teaching, research and policy planning in Bangladesh for five and a half decades. A master in ag. economics from Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), PhD from London and post-doc from Oxford, he is the first Emeritus Professor and the 21st Vice- Chancellor of BAU during 2008- 2011. Professor Mandal was a Member of Bangladesh Planning Commission for Agriculture Division during 2011-2013 and a Member for General Economics Division during 2000-2001. Currently, as a Professorial Fellow of the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), he is leading nation-wide field research on agrarian change in Bangladesh. He is also an advisor of Probha Aurora. Professor Mandal led the formulation of major policy documents such as Bangladesh Agriculture Mechanization Policy 2020, Bangladesh Country Position Paper on Food Security for the SAARC Region (2007), Bangladesh Fishery Research Vision- 2015 (2006), A Synthesis of Agricultural Policies in Bangladesh (2006), mid-term evaluation of the Fifth Five-Year Plan, 2001 and National Agriculture Policy 1999. He was also a main contributor to the preparation of Bangladesh Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (2005), Flood Action Plan-12 & 13 (1991) and Agricultural Sector Review (1988). He has 91 published papers and book chapters, 73 research reports and policy papers, 16 books and monographs, and numerous popular articles of public interests. He advises the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of Bangladesh, FAO, USAID, World Bank, CIMMYT, WorldFish and many other development partners. Professor Mandal was the President of Bangladesh Agricultural Economics Association and a Vice- President of the Bangladesh Economic Association for several terms. Prof. Mandal was awarded the ‘Ekushe Podok 2022’, the second highest national award of the government of Bangladesh, the Standard Chartered Bank- Channel I Life time achievement award 2023, the BAU Alumni Life time achievement award 2018 and Bangladesh Agricultural Economists Association Excellence award 2018.
- Email:asmandal11@gmail.com
Salma Shafi (VC):
SALMA A. SHAFI, an architect and urban planner, works on Dhaka city’s urban planning issues and is a core member of the Centre for Urban Studies (CUS), Dhaka. She did her M. Sc. in Urban Planning, AIT, Bangkok(1982) and has a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch.) degree from BUET, Dhaka(1978). She is an advisor of Probha Aurora.
Salma Shafi has extensive experience in consultancy in multidisciplinary areas. She has been involved in urban research, specializing in land tenure issues, housing and environmental planning and has worked with donors like ADB, FAO, UNDP and WB.
Urban Crime and Violence in Dhaka, a research work on occurrence of criminal activities in the public realm of Dhaka, done by her in 2006 has been published by the University Press Limited. Some of the works she has done has been published in books such as The Inclusive City, Infrastructure and Public Services for the Urban Poor in Asia (Woodrow Wilson Centre Press, Washington D.C) and John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. She has recently co authored two seminar proceedings on water published by the Geothe Institut, Dhaka.
Mohidul Hoque Khan (VC):
Mohidul Hoque Khan is a senior researcher and development professional with over 35 years of experience. He holds postgraduate degrees in Statistics and Business Administration from the University of Dhaka. As the owner of PCSL, he has led major research projects for organizations like USAID, WHO, and the World Bank. He previously worked as a government official and Head of Research at SMC. A dedicated social and environmental activist, he holds leadership roles in BFSN, BAPA, SEED, BSAFE Foundation, and Jashore Zila Samity, contributing to food safety, environmental protection, and economic development in Bangladesh.
TS Hariharan (Member):
Dr. Hariharan T. S. is an academic and consultant specializing in systems thinking, ecosystem management, and sustainability. With a Ph.D. in Systems Thinking & Ecosystem Management from IIT Madras and Curtin University, his research explores environmental governance and invasive species management. He has consulted on decarbonization strategies for industries and has led sustainability training programs for corporate and government entities. A certified Lean Practitioner and Six Sigma expert, he integrates strategic management with environmental resilience. He contributed to greenhouse gas mitigation strategies for Mahindra Holidays as a Climate Corps Fellow with the Environmental Defense Fund. He actively reviews and publishes in top environmental journals.
Wilmar Ovares (Member)
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Dr. Aftab Uddin (Member):
Dr. Aftab Uddin is a seasoned medical professional with nearly 40 years of experience in public health and medical education. Educated in Australia, the UK, and the USA, he has significantly impacted health human resources and quality improvement initiatives in Bangladesh. Dr. Aftab has worked in academia, providing technical assistance for medical curricula, and has collaborated with the Ministry of Health, UN agencies, and NGOs.
Currently serving as Advisor for Policy-Strategy-Research and Programme Execution Advisor at Probha Aurora, he focuses on capacity building and youth empowerment in areas related to climate change and public health. He holds an MBBS and advanced degrees in Public Health and Medical Education, along with several specialized trainings. Dr. Aftab is dedicated to advancing research and programs that address the intersections of health, environment, and sustainability.
Communications and Resources Subcommittee
Bryan Kyalo (Chair):
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Liza Sasha (Member):
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Fredericks (Member):
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Mariana Tadey (Member):
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Derek Lescahsin (Member):
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Event Host Coordination Subcommittee
Loreiel Dettlinger (Chair):
Lorelei Dettlinger is an environmental worker living in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. Lorelei loves nature ever since she was young and wants to protect and restore the environment we all depend upon. Today she, is involved with being a board member of Guardian Ecology, and has years of experience in environmental work. Lorelei has a background in Environmental Studies from the University of Windsor and specialized certification in Ecosystem Restoration from Niagara College. She is currently enrolled at the University of Guelph for Environmental Sciences. She also loves gardening, video games, volunteering, and reading.
K Sriram (Member):
K Sriram's B. Com. project in Loyola was on Corporate Social Responsibility; A paper was published out of this project on Mathematical Modelling of Corporate Social Responsibility from this. He took the Environment Management, Environment Impact Assessment & Large Project Appraisal courses during my MBA in IIMB; We did a group project on a large thermal power plant. His Ph. D. in IITM was in the area of ESG and Sustainable business; 3 peer reviewed papers were published from this. He was a founding member of the Infosys Green team in 2002. We arranged bird watches, sanctuary visits and talks on nature as a part of this club. He was a social entrepreneur in agricultural supply chains with a farm to fork model for 6 years. We delivered farm fresh vegetables to the doorstep, with minimal wastage of perishable agricultural produce; We also had an organic line of products; Our objective was to help small farmers with a better income. He have taught courses in Chennai in the areas of business sustainability and social entrepreneurship; I have also been a doctoral committee member in this area; I have been a judge in social entrepreneurship business plan competitions; I have given several guest lectures in this area too. He explored an ecological innovation fund by IIMB alumni contributions; this project did not take off because of its legal infeasibility in India. He was a volunteer for the Silver Jubilee reunion raise of our IIMB batch; A portion of the raise is being used for procurement of electric buggies for IIMB and Furniture made from recycled plastic for government schools in Karnataka. He have been volunteering in Junglescapes for the past 2 years. We have connected with academic institutions, corporates and funders as a part of this. I have also been humbled to learn about assisted ecological restoration, as a Junglescapes volunteer.
- Email:sriram76tkr@gmail.com
Frank Kanyamula (Member):
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Kara Mullin (Member):
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Website Subcommittee
Syed Ziaul Habib (Chair):
Syed Ziaul Habib is a seasoned web programmer and educator with over 22 years of experience, including 15+ years in web development. As a ZEND Certified Engineer in PHP, he specializes in technologies such as MySQL, JavaScript, ReactJS, VueJS, WordPress, and Laravel. Syed has trained thousands of aspiring full-stack web developers and currently manages ICT and Smart Solutions at Probha Aurora. His contributions include work with organizations like The Hunger Project and IBCS-PRIMAX Software Bangladesh. He has also received two international photography awards and the Manthan Award in 2011 for an innovative E-governance project.
- Phone:+8801749752942
- Email:szhabib@probhaaurora.com
Mahinoor Nazia Farah (Member):
Mahinoor Nazia Farah is an environmental researcher and sustainability strategist with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Geography and Environment from the University of Dhaka. As the Manager of Research and Special Initiatives at Probha Aurora, she designs impactful environmental programs. Her work with the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) Bangladesh supports eco-friendly initiatives like the Green Key Programme and the Black Soldier Fly Farming project for waste management. Mahinoor has co-authored significant studies and is a recipient of the National Science and Technology Fellowship. She represented Bangladesh at the South Asian Climate Action Conference 2023 and is a distinguished GAIA Fellow.
Farmina Khandokar (Member):
Farmina Khandokar is an aspiring marketing professional with a Bachelor’s degree in public health nutrition from Primeasia University. As the Assistant Manager of Marketing Creative Initiative & Research at Probha Aurora, she excels in innovative campaigns and eco-friendly initiatives. Farmina completed the Global GAIA Fellowship and leads the Young Reporters of Environment and Eco-School programs. Her experience includes being a Covid-19 vaccinator, mental health consultant, and public health trainer. Proficient in design and analysis tools, she aims to contribute fresh perspectives and drive impactful results in a dynamic organization.
Soobin Lee (Member):
Soobin Lee serves as a KOICA Volunteer at Probha Aurora in Dhaka, Bangladesh, working as an International Fellow. Currently, she plays a pivotal role as the Project Leader for the Guardians of Dhaka Project, dedicated to resolving litter issues and empowering youth climate leaders. Additionally, she is driving the Wave Project, a monthly article-writing initiative addressing climate vulnerability among marginalized groups. Soobin Lee holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Diplomacy from Myongji University, with a minor in Applied Data Science.
Fundraising Subcommittee
Dr. Aftab Uddin (Chair):
Dr. Aftab Uddin is a seasoned medical professional with nearly 40 years of experience in public health and medical education. Educated in Australia, the UK, and the USA, he has significantly impacted health human resources and quality improvement initiatives in Bangladesh. Dr. Aftab has worked in academia, providing technical assistance for medical curricula, and has collaborated with the Ministry of Health, UN agencies, and NGOs.
Currently serving as Advisor for Policy-Strategy-Research and Programme Execution Advisor at Probha Aurora, he focuses on capacity building and youth empowerment in areas related to climate change and public health. He holds an MBBS and advanced degrees in Public Health and Medical Education, along with several specialized trainings. Dr. Aftab is dedicated to advancing research and programs that address the intersections of health, environment, and sustainability.
Mohidul Hoque Khan (Vice Chair):
Mohidul Hoque Khan is a senior researcher and development professional with over 35 years of experience. He holds postgraduate degrees in Statistics and Business Administration from the University of Dhaka. As the owner of PCSL, he has led major research projects for organizations like USAID, WHO, and the World Bank. He previously worked as a government official and Head of Research at SMC. A dedicated social and environmental activist, he holds leadership roles in BFSN, BAPA, SEED, BSAFE Foundation, and Jashore Zila Samity, contributing to food safety, environmental protection, and economic development in Bangladesh.
Sayma Khatun (Member):
Sayma khatun is an accountant. She had completed her CA(CC) from Hussain Farhad & Co. She holds postgraduate degrees on Finance and Banking. She has seven years’ experience on Finance and Accounting related works. Currently she is working with Probha Aurora as a manager of Finance and Accounts.
Mushfika Hasan Stuti (Member):
Mushfika Hasan Stuti is an environmental researcher and GIS analyst based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Currently the Assistant Manager at Probha Aurora, she manages research documentation for environmental projects and collaborates on initiatives like Eco Schools. With a Master’s in Physical Geography and a Bachelor’s in Geography from the University of Dhaka, she has received a National Science and Technology Fellowship. Mushfika has experience in child health research with the Children Watch Foundation and spatial data analysis with the Coastal Research Unit. Fluent in Bangla and English, she is passionate about sustainability and community engagement.
Rosario (Member):
Rosario Montiel is a biologist and environmental consultant with expertise in ecological restoration, conservation, and sustainable land management. She has extensive experience working in the Humid Chaco region, focusing on forest restoration, fire ecology, and biodiversity conservation. She is also an educator, teaching Environmental Systems and Societies in the IB program. Passionate about science and education, she actively engages in research and initiatives that bridge ecological knowledge with practical conservation efforts.
Outreach Subcommittee
Inao Vasques (Co-Chair):
Inao is based in Valdivia, Chile, where he is part of the Restoration Ecology Laboratory and the Centro de Humedales Río Cruces at Universidad Austral de Chile. With 15 years of hands-on experience in the conservation and restoration of Chilean species and ecosystems, he has led and collaborated on several restoration projects across the country, many of which have involved local communities. Currently, he is conducting his doctoral research on wetland-forest restoration. In 2024, he led the Semana de la Restauración initiative, encouraging Chileans to host and participate in Make a Difference Week.
Dr. Shanti (Co-Chair):
Dr. Shanti Srinivas is a dedicated higher education leader with 20+ years of experience committed to fostering belongingness, environmental stewardship, and the principles of One Health. She is a strong proponent of the transformational power of higher education and advocates for policies that empower learners. An environmentalist at heart, she integrates sustainability into institutional practices, promoting ecological responsibility and climate-conscious education. Her work in One Health emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and planetary well-being, driving interdisciplinary collaboration. Through leadership, advocacy, and professional service, Dr. Srinivas champions holistic approaches to education and well-being, ensuring a lasting impact on students and society.
Proma Gulshan (Member):
Proma Gulshan is a dedicated GIS and Environmental Analyst based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. With a Bachelor's degree in Spatial Information Science from Macquarie University, she specializes in GIS software and remote sensing. Currently serving as a GIS and Environmental Analyst at Probha Aurora, she leads projects focused on eco-schools. Proma has a rich background in journalism, having worked as a Sub-editor for The Daily Star and an Editorial Assistant at Dhaka Tribune, where she wrote extensively on environmental issues. Passionate about climate action, she combines technical expertise with effective communication to raise awareness in the community.
Soobin Lee (Member):
Soobin Lee serves as a KOICA Volunteer at Probha Aurora in Dhaka, Bangladesh, working as an International Fellow. Currently, she plays a pivotal role as the Project Leader for the Guardians of Dhaka Project, dedicated to resolving litter issues and empowering youth climate leaders. Additionally, she is driving the Wave Project, a monthly article-writing initiative addressing climate vulnerability among marginalized groups. Soobin Lee holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Diplomacy from Myongji University, with a minor in Applied Data Science.
Inyeong Jo (Member):
Inyeong Jo is a major in Political and Diplomatic Studies with a strong interest in international development cooperation. She serves as a KOICA volunteer and is an international fellow at Probha Aurora in Bangladesh, actively participating in environmental education and sustainability initiatives. Inyeong leads the Guardians of Dhaka project, which empowers youth in Bangladesh to tackle issues related to littering and climate change. Additionally, she has engaged in discussions and studies focused on Official Development Assistance (ODA), exploring strategies for effective development cooperation.
Go Yeeun (Member):
Yeeun Go is an International Fellow at Probha Aurora, actively engaged in youth education and climate leadership development. She graduated from Kyungdong University with a major in Physical Therapy and worked as a physical therapist in Korea for three years. Through her experience treating diverse patients, she developed a strong interest in public health and its intersection with social and environmental issues. This led her to deeply explore the relationship between climate change and public health.
Currently, she is dedicated to fostering Eco School student climate youth leaders, empowering young individuals to take action against the climate crisis through education and leadership initiatives. In her free time, she finds vitality in sports, playing musical instruments, and reading.
Nancy Shackelford (Member):
Nancy Shackelford is an Assistant Professor in the School of Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria and the Academic Director of the Restoration of Natural Systems Program. She experience with restoration is diverse, from the scrubby woodlands of Texas, to the grasslands of Colorado, to the amazing cedar and fir forests on our local coastline. She has a deep, abiding, unshakeable love for data, knowledge, and leveraging our shared work to continually enhance restoration outcomes. She gravitate towards terrestrial restoration in experimental and observational science, but am continually expanding my integration of the social, human sides of restoration.
Sandra Forbah (Member):
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Mosammat Mariya (Member):
Mosammat Mariya is a passionate Computer Science and Engineering graduate working in Probha Aurora, Dhaka, with expertise in data analytics, project management, and community engagement. As an Assistant Project Leader for the "Guardians of Dhaka" initiative, she has successfully collaborated with international teams to promote sustainability and waste management awareness in local schools. Proficient in Python, SQL, and visualization tools, she thrives in leading projects and enhancing team productivity. With a strong commitment to fostering positive community impact, Mariya is dedicated to leveraging her technical skills and leadership abilities for meaningful change in her community.
Nawshin Sardar (Member):
Nawshin Sardar is a meritorious student at New York University, pursuing a dual Bachelor of Arts in Global Public Health and Sociology, with a minor in Chemistry, and a GPA of 3.91. Her experience includes internships at Probha Aurora and Yunus Centre in Bangladesh, where she worked on impactful presentations and event planning. Nawshin has also contributed to RYZE Superfoods' influencer marketing efforts, generating significant sponsorships. A passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, she volunteered with the River Revitalization Foundation and is actively involved in research on social justice and cultural narratives impacting Muslim women.
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Make a Difference Week Is Held in Conjunction With:
