About MELA Foundation

Supporting passionate individuals working to positively impact the lives of the most vulnerable and neglected sections of our society.

Our Mission

MELA Foundation is a philanthropic initiative that uses a broad range of tools including grants, impact investing, research and fellowships to bring attention to and positively impact the lives of the most vulnerable and neglected sections of our society.

Our Story

Established by Akila and Krishnakumar, MELA Foundation believes in the power of passionate and thoughtful individuals driven to right the wrongs around them. We provide early stage support and strong mentorship to exceptional individuals as they form and grow their organizations and the impact they can make.

Our Philosophy

We believe that the two most pivotal decades in a person's life are the 10 years between 15 and 25 and again between 60 and 70 years of age.

The 15-25 Decade

The decisions made during the 15-25 decade disproportionately define lifelong economic success. Choices are mostly guided by gender and class, instead of potential and aspiration alone. Equitable access along with large doses of financial and moral support are game-changers.

The 65-75 Decade

Similarly, the 65-75 decade is the beginning of post-retirement period that lacks the scaffolding of formal work and the purpose it brings along. The next three decades or so are then a stubborn effort to remain agile and independent financially, physically, and mentally.

Our Approach

MELA Foundation's work aims to be deliberate and effective in these two decades by plugging the gap between promise and reality for all those who need help crossing the chasm.

We don't just provide funding — we partner with grantees through mentorship, strategic support, and connecting them with networks that amplify their impact.

Our Focus Areas

We support transformative work across four interconnected areas:

  • Mental Health: Supporting mental wellness and reducing stigma
  • Environment: Protecting our planet for future generations
  • Learning: Expanding access to quality education and skills
  • Ageing: Ensuring dignity and purpose in later years

Our Values

  • Early-stage support: We invest in promising individuals and ideas early
  • Strong mentorship: We provide guidance beyond financial support
  • Impact-focused: We measure success by the lives improved
  • Collaborative: We believe the best solutions emerge from partnerships