NIRANJAN SHAH SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES THROUGH THE LIFT FOUNDATION
Fr. Jamel and four priests created Leading India’s Future Today Foundation (LIFT) in 2004. The initiators of the LIFT Foundation realized that education was the key to creating real differences within the community. James met with Jack Wall on his way to Chicago and shared his brilliant idea of building schools to improve societies. Father Jack and various volunteers chipped in to assist in the realization of Father James’ dream. The program aids students in completing their studies, such as master’s degrees, with some going back to support students still in the LIFT Foundation as mentors and donors. The administration of the LIFT Foundation includes Niranjan Shah, is committed to ensuring the delivery of Father James’ vision.
Shah was born and bred in India with limited resources such as water and electricity. However, he had a family and community that was supportive, enabling him to acquire education and nurture exemplary leadership skills. To attain a master’s degree, Shah earned a scholarship in the US. He created Globetrotters Engineering Corporation more than four decades ago, with its headquarters currently in Chicago. Shah became a leader in both his work and at the community level. At work, his company received awards for exceptional work, and in the community, Niranjan Shah offered counsel to national leaders. Furthermore, he has immensely contributed to the LIFT Foundation by being a humanitarian and an executive.
The foundation key objectives comprise education, the transformation of communities, and leadership training. LIFT Foundation selects around 70 students annually for primary, secondary, and university levels. The foundation provides hostel services, meals, study hours, and transportation to facilitate a conducive environment for the students. Additionally, LIFT grants tuition, books, and living expenses to students on college programs. Generally, the foundation grants students with basic needs, high-quality education, and leadership skills. LIFT offers training in camps and seminars aimed at improving critical thinking and imparting teamwork, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.