Abraham George :- Abraham George stands as a beacon of inspiration, a man whose journey from the shores of Trivandrum, Kerala, to the helm of social entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark on the landscape of philanthropy.
Abraham George’s Early Years
Abraham George’s journey began in Trivandrum, Kerala, where he grew up as the second son of Mathew and Aleyamma George. At fourteen, he entered the National Defence Academy, marking the onset of a formative period in the Indian Army.
His military service took him to the Northeast Frontier and later to the Indo-Pakistan border, where he rose to the rank of captain. Despite facing challenges, George reflects on his army days as pivotal, shaping his outlook on life.
In 1968, a hearing disability compelled him to seek specialized surgery in the United States, where his mother worked for NASA. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in George’s life.
Education and Professional Life
The transition to America, during the era of segregationist Governor George Wallace, was overwhelming. However, George embraced the challenge, becoming a graduate student at New York University’s Stern School of Business. His journey into American citizenship was coupled with a specialization in developmental economics and international finance.
After completing his doctoral work, Abraham George entered the teaching profession and later joined Chemical Bank. In 1976, he founded Multinational Computer Models, Inc. (MCM), a venture that eventually led to a Vice-Chairmanship at SunGard Data Systems. His diverse career included roles on the boards of prestigious institutions and an adjunct professorship at NYU Stern School of Business.
The George Foundation and Shanti Bhavan
Returning to India in 1995, Abraham George established The George Foundation, aiming to tackle injustices and inequalities. Shanti Bhavan Residential School, a project under TGF, provides world-class education to children from India’s poorest segments.
Remarkably, Shanti Bhavan has seen its first four batches graduate from college, securing employment with global companies. In 2021, six graduates gained admission to prestigious international universities, a testament to the success of George’s vision.
Writing and Recognition
Abraham George‘s commitment extends beyond philanthropy; he is an accomplished author with books and articles on international finance. His dedication has garnered several awards, including the NYU Stern School of Business’ Stewart Satter Social Entrepreneurship Award and the Spirit of India Award.
In his own words, “In 1995, I returned to India with the goal of reducing the injustices and inequalities I had observed during my military service in my youth.”
Abraham M. George’s legacy is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice. His impact on education, healthcare, and social empowerment continues to uplift the lives of those in need, making him a true visionary in the realm of philanthropy.
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