A first-of-its-kind culinary institute empowering individuals with developmental disabilities.
26 Apr, 2017
About Us
Working since 2017 to empower individuals with developmental disabilities
Together, we can build an inclusive society.
Veruschka Foundation was started in memory of Veruschka Dias, an affectionate & bubbly individual on the autistic spectrum. A foodie at heart, she was also adept at kitchen chores.
We empower individuals with developmental disabilities to become contributing members of our society through the power of food. We offer a holistic approach using cookery as a medium to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for our students and achieve independence at home, start/skill their entrepreneurial journey or be placed in mainstream employment.
We are a not-for-profit company registered under Section 8 and follow all legal compliances including 80G, 12AA and the Registrar of Companies.
Veruschka Foundation was started in memory of Veruschka Dias, an affectionate & bubbly individual on the autistic spectrum. A foodie at heart, she was also adept at kitchen chores.
We empower individuals with developmental disabilities to become contributing members of our society through the power of food. We offer a holistic approach using cookery as a medium to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for our students and achieve independence at home, start/skill their entrepreneurial journey or be placed in mainstream employment.
We are a not-for-profit company registered under Section 8 and follow all legal compliances including 80G, 12AA and the Registrar of Companies.
Dr Tatyana Dias
Chief Executive Officer
Veruschka was the inspiration that drove Tatyana, her older sibling to complete a postdoctoral in neuroscience from the University of Cambridge. Upon Veruschka passing away, she returned to India after 11 years and set up Veruschka Foundation along with her parents to Accept, Celebrate & Empower individuals with Developmental Disabilities. Since Veruschka Foundation was founded in 2017, she has been driving the foundation towards making its dream a reality - empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to achieve independence and lead a life of dignity.
Rohan Dias
Chief Operating Officer
As an advertising professional, Rohan has helped over 50 Indian and international companies connect with their audience for almost 2 decades. However, after he met Tatyana and learnt about her mission, he left his career to help her in enabling her dream to be a reality. He has conceptualised and designed the Culinaris Cookery Institute and oversees Business Development, Communications and Marketing.
Board of Directors
Aloysius Dias
Director
Aloysius is the doting father of Dr Tatyana and Veruschka, a loving husband and director of the Veruschka Foundation. For more than 25 years, he has worked in the field of Human Resources, with the last being GM (HR) of Essar Projects. He is instrumental in founding Veruschka Foundation to help children like Veruschka get a platform that can enhance their abilities and help them lead an independent life of dignity.
Jennifer Dias
Director
Before becoming the director of the Veruschka Foundation, Jennifer was the principal of St Xavier's High School, Fort. She has over 33 years of experience in the education sector, specialising in student learning and development. Her dream is to provide required help to the families of special adults and keep alive the memory of Veruschka, her beloved daughter.
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Culinaris Cookery Institute
The Cook for Change Challenge
Our flagship cooking competition for differently-abled students from special schools, vocational centres etc.
26 Apr, 2017
Serving Change
Providing a holistic kitchen work experience for the budding chefs from Culinaris Cookery Institute.
26 Apr, 2017
Growing Change
Promoting the farm-ability of eco-friendly enthusiasts and individuals with developmental disabilities.
26 Apr, 2017
Know Better Do Better
A bi-annual event where industry specialists are invited to share their expertise & experience for awareness.
26 Apr, 2017
Stage For Change
A cultural initiative that brings together commercial artists to perform and help us raise funds for our cause.
26 Apr, 2017