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The Mariam Society was founded to do little things
with great love in a big world of need.

Meet Gita

As a young child living in India, Gita Banks witnessed everyday, girls her age living in slums and on the streets caring for siblings and begging for their next meal.

 

She carried these girls in her heart for over three decades, wanting to do something that helped them access the abundance of our world. As her three girls were born and grew, her desire burned brighter.

 

The Mariam Society was founded to give a like-minded community the opportunity to directly contribute to the education and empowerment of girls who would not otherwise have a chance to break free of the cycle of poverty into which they were born. 

 

She wishes to keep the Society always focused on helping one girl at a time.  

 

Watch how a small step made in faith, led Gita to build the Mariam Society.

Banks family
Video
why the mariam society

Why the name “Mariam”?

The Mariam Society is named to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was likely known as “Mariam” in the Aramaic spoken in her time.

Also, “Mariam” is an ancient name with derivatives across cultures. It reflects the Society’s value of universality and honours the dignity and gifts of the feminine.

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We don't struggle to buy school
supplies like we used to

Board of Directors

Gita Banks

CHAIR & FOUNDER

Gita Banks

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Nabeela Impact and Reporting

IMPACT & REPORTING

Nabeela Ratansi

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veronika Secretary

SECRETARY

Veronika Saxena

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Heather Marketing

MARKETING & MEDIA

Heather Marczynski

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Raj Fundraising

FUNDRAISING 

Raj Nigam 

Pat Sparks Treasurer

TREASURER

Pat Sparks

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Paul Colelli

Fundraising & Events

Paul Colelli

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I feel more supported going
to school 
since the scholarship started. 

Grameen Foundation India

Prabhat Labh

Prabahat Labh

CEO

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Rupali

Rupali Awade

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GENDER EXPERT 

purna-roy-chowdhury

Purna Chowdhury

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

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Smita

Smita Sandhwane

FIELD COORDINATOR

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I finally have a bicycle
to go to school

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