Soma has been shaping the soul of RISE’s classrooms since 2015. She began working as a Classroom Coach for Teachers and then joined as a full time Curriculum Officer. From designing lesson plans that balance academic rigour with creative learning, she is now in charge of key projects in the organisation, such as monthly school events, new initiatives for students like mentoring and managing our student data.

Soma graduated from Krishnagar Government College with a B.A. in Political Science and earned her Masters in Political Science from Rabindra Bharati University in Kolkata 2006. After starting her career in IT education as a Manager at a computer centre, Soma discovered her true calling in literacy education. Soma’s is passionate about turning lessons into songs, stories, and playful activities that connect deeply with first-generation learners. She believes strongly that “education is not memorisation, but imagination.

Debu, affectionately known as Debada, has been with RISE since we established our office in Krishnagar in 2013. As Operations Manager, Debu is the trusted bridge between RISE and the local community. He knows every student by name, every family’s situation, and is often the one cycling tirelessly across villages to ensure no child misses out on education. During the Covid-19 lockdowns, he personally delivered laptops and phones to students’ homes so they could continue learning.

A graduate of Calcutta University in 1988, before joining RISE, Debu supported his family through entrepreneurship and spent 13 years as a bus conductor, a role that taught him resilience, patience, and how to connect with people from every walk of life. Beyond his work, Debu is passionate about gardening and often brings fresh flowers and plants to the RISE office. His calm energy, deep community ties, and stamina, make him the heartbeat of the organisation.

Mahuya joined RISE in 2018 and has since become a pillar of the curriculum team. She graduated with a B.A in Bengali from Krishnagar Women’s College, completed her M.A. in Bengali from Burdwan University and B.Ed. from Kalyani University. Alongside her academic expertise, she trained in computer skills at Webel Computer Informatics Limited, later serving as a faculty member there.

With over a decade of private tutoring experience in Bengali for students from Class 6 through to university level, Mahuya brings both depth and clarity to her teaching. At RISE, she develops engaging learning modules in the Bengali language and literature, helping students not just pass exams but fall in love with their mother tongue.

Mahuya’s teaching philosophy is rooted in accessibility. She believes no child should feel left behind because of difficult texts. Colleagues admire her patience, and students love her knack for making Bengali grammar both understandable and fun.

Tapati has a keen interest in the educational system in Bengal. She has a B.A. and M.A. in Bengali and B.Ed. from Kalyani University and is certified in Computer Application from Webel. Prior to RISE she worked in administration at West Bengal University of Technology.

Tapati balances creativity with structure in her dual role at RISE, designing lesson plans while also managing student attendance at the RISE school. Her reliability, warmth, and ability to engage students beyond academics make her a cornerstone of RISE’s holistic education model.

Tapati is also known for her love of dance, leading extracurricular activities and cultural events that bring joy and confidence to RISE’s students. Tapati believes that learning should include music, art, and performance that builds self-esteem.

Puja’s journey with RISE is one of resilience and inspiration. Forced to leave school after Class 6, she was brought back into education through RISE’s support. She is the first one in her family to pass Madhyamik and Higher Secondary exams and now she is a curriculum developer, guiding the next generation of learners in rural communities of Bengal like the one she grew up in.

Puja is living proof of RISE’s mission: that no child should be denied education because of circumstance. Puja now develops learning materials tailored for first-generation learners, drawing from her own lived experience of the challenges students face living below the poverty line. Outside of work, Puja is a new mother to a baby girl. Her story embodies strength, care, and determination, qualities she brings to her lesson plans. She is deeply thoughtful, with a natural empathy that shines through in her work.

Archana’s journey with RISE began as a student, and today she serves as an integral member of our Community Operations team. As a first generation learner, she persevered to complete her Madhyamik and Higher Secondary exams, she has returned to RISE to give back to the community that nurtured her. Archana is a role model for our students, juggling family life whilst pursuing her B.A. in Bengali and History from Krishnagar DL College.

Archana helps to coordinate school operations and student engagement, making sure that RISE remains not just a school but a family network. As an alumna, Archana understands the students’ challenges firsthand and is uniquely positioned to support and inspire them. Her thoughtful, dependable nature has made her a role model for current students, a living example of what education and opportunity can achieve.

Mousumi recently completed her Master’s in Social Work from Kanyashree University, building on her Bachelor of Science degree from Ranaghat College. Her academic journey reflects her dedication to understanding people, communities, and the ways supportive education can create meaningful change. Mousumi has joined the RISE team to build on our career coaching provision for alumni students.

Passionate about lifelong learning, Mousumi enjoys exploring diverse cultures and the dynamics of nature, which inspire her perspective on social development and community building. Outside of work, she is enthusiastic about arts and crafts, as well as maintaining fitness for an active lifestyle. Her versatility, creativity, and commitment to growth make her a valuable addition to the RISE family.

Sona is a graduate in B.A. Bengali from Krishnagar Government College and completed his M.A. in Bengali from Kalyani University in 2013. He started his career with RISE as an active Yearn to Learn teacher in 2013 and later joined as a full time member in the Curriculum team while pursuing a B.Ed. degree from Jalangi B.Ed College. Sona was once known as 'the rockstar of RISE India office', with immense talent and interest in Bangali rock music.

Sona brings passion and dedication to the curriculum team, where he works on developing subject materials and supporting classroom innovation. He ensures that lessons are grounded in clarity and accessibility. He is especially committed to empowering students who may struggle with traditional rote learning methods, ensuring that RISE’s curriculum remains student-centred at all times. His warm personality and practical mindset make him an integral part of the curriculum team.

Susmita is currently pursuing her M.A. in History from the University of Kalyani and holds a Diploma in Elementary Education with distinction. She has nearly ten years of teaching experience, both as a private tutor and as an educator at RISE since 2023.

Her specialisms include Bengali, History, and arts-based learning. Trained in Rabindra Sangeet and skilled in computer applications, Susmita integrates music and technology into her lesson plans. She is passionate about creative, holistic education and strives to design curricula that foster imagination, empathy, and critical thinking. Her thoughtful approach has made her a favourite among students who see history not just as dates and facts, but as stories of people and ideas.

Antara is a graduate in Bengali from Kalyani University and holds a Diploma in Elementary Education with first-class distinction. She has over five years of experience teaching students from Classes 5 to 8, including children with special needs.

Antara crafts inclusive, accessible, and engaging learning materials that meet the diverse needs of first-generation learners. She is also trained in Rabindra Sangeet and skilled in computer applications, which she often weaves into her lessons to add a creative spark. Her approach blends structure with creativity, ensuring that students not only learn but also enjoy their learning journey.

Deboshri is a passionate educator with a strong background in Sanskrit language and literature. She graduated from Katwa College in 2014 and went on to complete her M.A. in Sanskrit from Burdwan University in 2016. Alongside her academic achievements, she earned a diploma in Information Technology Applications from Youth Computer Centre, equipping her to blend tradition with modern teaching practices.

Before joining RISE, Deboshri gained experience as a private tutor, teaching Bengali to students from Classes 1-8. At RISE she creates lesson plans that spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking and make classical knowledge relevant to young learners today. Beyond the classroom, Deboshri’s training in music further enriches her approach, adding rhythm and harmony to the way she sees education.

Urmi creates dynamic and inclusive educational content tailored to the needs of first-generation learners. She is currently pursuing her B.A. in Bengali Honours at Krishnagar Women’s College, deepening her expertise in language and literature while applying it directly to curriculum design. With strong skills in Microsoft Office and other computer technologies, Urmi blends academic insight with practical tools to produce innovative, engaging, and accessible learning materials.

Outside of her academic and professional work, Urmi’s passion for dance brings expression, rhythm, and creativity into everything she does. She believes education should not only prepare children for exams but also for life, instilling values, confidence, and curiosity in every learner.

Barnali has a strong academic foundation and a deep passion for teaching. She completed her B.A. in History from Calcutta University in 2001, and went on to complete her M.A. in History from Burdwan University in 2004. At RISE, Barnali is dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive classroom where every student feels encouraged to grow, explore, and reach their potential. Her thoughtful approach and commitment to education inspire confidence and curiosity in young learners.

Barnali believes education should go beyond textbooks, nurturing critical thinking and curiosity in students. Barnali’s mix of academic depth and approachable teaching style makes her a much-loved teacher in the RISE family.

Soma is an enthusiastic teacher with a deep love for the Bengali language and literature. She graduated with a B.A. in Bengali, Political Science and Philosophy from Krishnagar Government College and also enhanced her skills with a basic computer course. Before joining RISE, Soma spent over a decade tutoring students privately, building strong foundations in Bengali through patience and encouragement.

Since joining RISE, she has been dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment, helping children, especially those at risk of dropping out, gain confidence and a love for learning. Her calm, nurturing approach ensures every student feels valued and inspired to succeed.

Sarnali is driven by her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. She graduated from Krishnagar Government College in a B.A. in Bengali, History & Political Science and went on to complete her Diploma in Elementary Education at Bhatjangla Shipra D.Ed. College in 2022. RISE is her first professional role, and she brings fresh enthusiasm and dedication to the classroom.

Sarnali is passionate about creating a positive learning environment where students feel confident, motivated, and resilient. She believes teaching is not just about lessons, but about nurturing self-belief in every child. Outside of RISE, Sarnali loves reading, cooking, and travelling, passions that feed her curiosity and creativity as an educator.

Suchana is a passionate educator with a strong commitment to teaching and student development. She earned her B.A. in English Honours (2017) and M.A. in English Literature (2021) from Indira Gandhi National Open University, and she is currently pursuing her B.Ed. at Rishi Arabinda Institute of Teacher Education. With three years of experience as Teacher-in-Charge at Bara Chand Ghar Sishu Vikash Vidyapith in Plassey, Suchana played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring young learners.

Suchana joined the RISE School in 2023, bringing expertise in educational administration, management, health and counseling services, backed by certificate courses from Kanyashree University in Educational Administration and Management (2024) and Health and Counseling Services (2025). Passionate about education, Suchana aspires to be an inspiring and impactful teacher. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, cooking, and gardening.

Shreya graduated in Geography from Krishnagar Women’s College in 2022 and earned her B.Ed. from Baba Saheb Ambedkar Education University in 2024, bringing fresh perspectives and creativity to the classroom. With a strong commitment to student growth, she teaches with passion and energy, helping students build both knowledge and confidence.

Shreya is known for her ability to connect with teenagers, guiding them through academic and personal challenges while ensuring they feel heard and motivated. Dedicated to student success, she began her career as a private tutor, teaching Geography to students from Class 5-10. In 2025, she joined RISE, where she works tirelessly to create engaging learning experiences and inspire her students to excel.

Santu is committed to building a strong educational foundation for RISE’s youngest learners. He graduated with a degree in English from Santipur College in 2016 and completed his Diploma in Elementary Education in Primary Teaching from Nadia Primary Teacher’s Training Institute in 2022.

Santu had over five years of experience as a private tutor before joining RISE. He is dedicated to creating a comfortable and supportive learning space where children can grow with confidence. Known for his energy and patience, Santu inspires curiosity and helps students develop essential skills at a formative stage in their education.

Swarup completed his Diploma in Elementary Education at Krishnagar Government Primary Teacher’s Training Institute, earned his B.A. in Bengali from Krishnagar D.L. College in 2021, and completed his B.Ed. from Baba Saheb Ambedkar Education University in 2023. His teaching journey began with private tutoring for students from Classes 5-10, where he honed his methods and built strong, supportive relationships with learners.

Since joining RISE, Swarup has worked tirelessly to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences, nurturing both the scholastic and co-scholastic development of his students. Known for his ability to connect deeply with teenagers, he supports them academically and emotionally, helping them navigate challenges with empathy and understanding. Beyond the classroom, Swarup is an avid traveler, constantly seeking inspiration and new perspectives to bring back to his students. To them, he is not just a teacher but a friend, mentor, and guide.

Arpita is a passionate teacher with extensive expertise in Bengali language and literature. She completed her graduation with a B.A in Bengali from Krishnagar Women’s College in 2005, and earned her M.A. in Bengali from Rabindra Bharati University in 2007. Combining a strong academic foundation with technology skills acquired from Jawaharlal Nehru Yuva Kalyan Computer Prashiksan Kendra, she brings a modern, engaging approach to her teaching.

Before joining RISE School in 2024, Arpita ran private Bengali tutoring for students from Classes 6-7, demonstrating her commitment to student growth and achievement. At RISE, she works tirelessly to create stimulating learning experiences that motivate students to expand their knowledge and capabilities.

Papia Bag is dedicated to laying a strong educational foundation for RISE's youngest learners. With warmth, patience, and a nurturing approach, she ensures that every child feels excited about learning and supported throughout their journey. Papia is committed to inspiring and nurturing the next generation of learners. She believes in making early education a joyful experience, helping children associate school with curiosity, exploration, and discovery.

Papia graduated with a B.A. in Bengali from Krishnagar Women’s College in 2000, and earned an M.A. in Bengali from Burdwan University in 2003. Beyond the classroom, she loves spending time in nature, cherishes seeing children smile, and enjoys singing and listening to music.

Sejuti is a dedicated volunteer at RISE, bringing a unique blend of psychological insight, creativity, and a passion for nurturing others. She holds an M.Sc. in Organisational Psychology and Psychiatry from King’s College London and a B.A. in Psychology and Philosophy from Jesus and Mary College, Delhi University. Beyond her academic background, Sejuti connects deeply to her roots through her love of food and baking. She founded her own bakery, B’s Homemade, where she combined entrepreneurship with her creative flair, delighting customers with personalised cakes and baked goods. Now based in London, Sejuti continues to blend her professional expertise with her passion for meaningful, hands-on projects that make a difference in people’s lives. At RISE, she is committed to supporting and inspiring learners, bringing empathy, curiosity, and a thoughtful approach to every interaction.

Arnab is an alumnus student of RISE and has shown tremendous determination and perseverance with his education and ambitions. He completed his graduation in Mathematics from Kalyani University in 2025 and is now pursuing the ITI course.

Arnab has always had a passion for sharing his love of education and began supporting younger students with their students when he was in Class 12. He then became the first alumni student to become a RISE teacher, a proud and happy moment for the RISE family.

For the past two years, Arnab has been home tutoring math students from Class 5 to 10. He is now helping RISE to pilot a maths curriculum and launch our maths teaching programme. Arnab enjoys supporting students and building unique bonds with them. He seeks to dedicate his life to being a teacher and craftsman of education.