ST Foundation talks: Meet Kamal Deep Jain, our India Country Manager
With this interview we start a new monthly series to help you better know the people behind the scenes of our Foundation and the work we do. This month we sat and had a coffee with Kamal Deep Jain, our Country Manager for India.
Enjoy the interview!
Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from, and what’s your background?
I grew up in a middle-class family from Delhi. My post-graduation in the Development sector laid a strong foundation for my career, along with postgraduate diplomas in Human Rights, International Humanitarian and Refugee Laws, and Human Resource Management.
With over 24 years in the non-profit sector, including 16 years focused on advancing digital literacy through the ST Foundation, I’ve seen how technology can open doors to education and new opportunities.
What brought you to the ST Foundation? Was there a specific moment or experience that inspired you to join?
The ST Foundation is focused on digital empowerment, which made it an exciting opportunity for me. Coming from the social sector, I saw it as a chance to contribute to something meaningful—helping grow an organization dedicated to such an important cause. The idea of empowering communities through technology really inspired me to join and be part of this journey.
What does your role as a country manager involve? What does a typical day look like for you?
As Country Manager for India and Coordinator for Asia Operations, I oversee projects in India and support our growth in other Asian countries. I work on finding new partners and managing programs with government agencies, NGOs, and private organizations. I also connect with the donor company’s top management, lead a local team, and report to the head of our Global Operations.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work with the ST Foundation?
The best part is the trust the Foundation places in me. That trust gives me the freedom to make decisions and lead initiatives, which makes me feel a real sense of ownership. It’s also helped me grow personally and professionally.
Can you share a story or moment from your work that really stayed with you?
One thing that really sticks with me is seeing how people who once thought computers were out of reach go from being scared to excited in just 20 hours. On the first day, many participants stare at the computers, unsure and hesitant. But by the end, they’re ready to enjoy using them. Those moments are truly inspiring.
What are some of the unique challenges you face in your country, and how do you approach them?
At first, the challenge was how to reach as many people as possible. Then it became about making sure the training really made an impact. We realized that just providing resources wasn’t enough to keep partners engaged. So, we adopted a partnership model that ensures accountability and keeps only those partners who are genuinely committed. Building these partnerships takes time and careful evaluation before we formalize anything.
How do you connect with local communities and partners to make an impact?
We know many organizations are working hard to close the digital divide, and we continue with determination and faith to achieve digital democracy worldwide. What sets us apart is how we empower people through our trainers. They’re the key to engaging learners, sparking interest, and making learning possible. Our program isn’t just about teaching basic computer skills—it’s about opening doors to the future and helping people access knowledge and opportunities beyond any boundaries.
What motivates you to keep going, even when things get tough? Do you have a personal motto or philosophy that drives you?
I believe that tough times are chances to learn and grow stronger.
“If I believe I cannot do something, it makes me incapable of doing it. But when I believe I can, I find the ability to do it, even if I didn’t have it before.”
How do you see the ST Foundation’s work evolving in your country in the coming years?
I see great potential for growth, especially by focusing on new technologies that empower young people and help close the digital gap. There’s a real need to introduce and expand Coding and Robotics courses to empower youth. These skills build critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, preparing them for a fast-changing job market. Many kids from low-income backgrounds don’t have access to these opportunities. By working closely with local partners, we can scale these programs and help nurture the next generation of technologists and entrepreneurs.
Kamal’s leadership and dedication truly reflect our commitment to digital inclusion and empowerment. Thanks to his work, many people are gaining the skills and confidence they need to embrace technology and open new doors.
