Zahir Shaikh leads MEER Inc.’s initiatives in India, bringing over a decade of experience in sustainable development, environmental innovation, and climate resilience. His background spans diverse sectors, including energy, disaster risk reduction, and water resource management, where he has made impactful contributions. As a government advisor and policy advocate, Zahir has provided strategic guidance on environmental policies, championing equitable and sustainable practices. He has successfully managed projects focused on driving positive change and has led action research to explore cutting-edge solutions for climate adaptation and sustainability. Zahir’s work at MEER reflects his commitment to advancing scalable, impactful approaches to environmental conservation.

Samiksha Gotephode is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor's in Environmental Science at Fergusson College in Pune, India. As an environmental enthusiast, she is particularly passionate about the topics of climate change, waste management, and sustainability. She had the opportunity to coordinate the waste management efforts during the Green Campus survey at the college. She is constantly exploring the vast diversity of the environment and is always eager to learn more about it.

Bunny Singh Clouhan has known since sixth grade that she wanted to work towards protecting the environment. Her passion for nature has grown stronger over the years, influencing everything she does daily. An undergraduate majoring in environmental science at Fergusson College Pune, she is involved in coordinating the Green Campus survey and sub-coordinating the college's water committee. She is zealous to study climate change, always looking for ways to live and promote clean and green life to the current and future generations. Bunny is also a fanatic of literature, music, hiking, journaling and occasional painting.

Yukta Pandey is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Physics at Fergusson College. Her deep passion for the subject is closely intertwined with her commitment to environmental preservation. As an active member of the National Service Scheme (NSS), she strives to apply her theoretical knowledge to practical action and contribute to environmental and social causes across India. Through coursework and hands-on projects, she is constantly honing her skills to address the pressing environmental challenges that our planet faces today. Her ultimate goal is to leverage her physics background to make a meaningful impact on our planet. She is eager to apply her passion and skills to your organization and contribute to the crucial field of environmental science. Her unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience makes a valuable contribution to your team.

Gargee Vaidya is a postgraduate student pursuing a Master's in Physics at Fergusson College, Pune, India. She is passionate about Physics and enthusiastic about sustainable technologies for a cleaner environment. Always open to learning and expanding her knowledge, she is currently working on resource management and learning about finding green resources for the future. Gargee has been a part of the World Scouting Association from a very young age, and is keen on doing work for the betterment of our planet, specifically the environment and society. She plans to apply her knowledge of physics to find practical solutions for the critical issue of climate change, particularly global warming. Interested in working with your organization as it shares values and morals similar to mine regarding climate change, her skill set and knowledge can contribute to the organization's efforts in addressing this issue.

As a physicist and enthusiastic environmentalist, Rajat is committed to utilizing his knowledge of physics and poetry to make a meaningful contribution to environmental causes and promote sustainable practices. He is passionate about blending science and creativity to make a positive impact on the environment and strives to achieve this through a unique fusion of his expertise.

Aditya Mane is a second-year environmental science student at Fergusson College in Pune, India. As an Environmental student, I am interested in conserving the environment. People often forget that they are a part of the environment and can cause damage to it. I always try to do my best to save the environment from my side. Projects like MEER will provide me with a platform to develop my skills and learn new things, such as climate change and reshaping the environment. I plan to use this internship to develop myself and learn new skills.

Prathmesh Yemul is a second-year Environmental Science student at Fergusson College, Pune, India. Since childhood, Prathmesh has had a strong interest in environmental studies, which was sparked by his father's work in wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and other aspects of the environment. His father's passion for water and environmental fields inspired him to pursue a career in this area. Currently, he is involved in projects like MEER, making a difference by learning and contributing. Prathmesh has already worked in fields such as climate change, environmental impact assessment, and wastewater treatment and has gained much knowledge. The MEER opportunity under Dr. Tao was another way for him to gain exposure and enhance his skills. He looks forward to learning and building himself and contributing to the environment through this internship.

Vaishnavi Salunkhe is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electronic Science at Fergusson College, Pune. I am deeply fascinated by how electronics can shape the future, from microchips to solar panels. My passion for Electronics Science is strongly connected with my desire to create innovative and sustainable technologies. I believe that electronics can be a powerful tool in fighting climate change, by developing efficient energy sources and optimizing energy consumption. I am excited to join a team of passionate individuals at your organization and contribute my skills towards your mission.

Vishwajeet is a student of environmental science at Fergusson College Pune with a deep passion for nature that has been shaped by his experiences as a professional mountain biker. His connection to the outdoors has inspired him to pursue a degree in environmental science, driven by his desire to address critical issues such as conservation, climate change, and sustainability. Through his academic journey, he is eager to gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.