Community Impact: Sameer, a Community Leader

How Sameer Maru Is Helping Pratham USA Expand Educational Access Across India and Beyond

For over a decade, Sameer Maru, a Portfolio Manager within Citadel’s Credit and Convertibles team, has served on the board of Pratham NY Tri-state, a nonprofit dedicated to improving access to quality education across India. His leadership helps advance programs reaching more than 8 million children annually.

Founded in 1995 by Dr. Madhav Chavan and Farida Lambay, Pratham began with a mission to bring education to children in Mumbai’s under-resourced communities. By partnering with local families, the organization created preschools and remedial classes that opened doors to learning and opportunity for thousands.

Since then, Pratham has grown from its grassroots beginnings into one of India’s most impactful education organizations. Its evidence-based approach helps children build foundational skills while empowering families and educators to improve learning outcomes nationwide. Sameer has seen the organization evolve beyond its early programs, expanding globally through innovative learning models now shared in more than 20 countries. “What began as a local initiative has truly become a global force,” he says.

Born and educated in India, Sameer feels a personal connection to Pratham’s mission, having witnessed firsthand the barriers many children face. “When you visit Pratham’s centers, you see how transformative their work is, not just for students but for entire communities,” he explains. He has met teachers who left the comfort and security of government schools to join Pratham because they believe in its forward-thinking approach to education.

As a board member of the New York Tri-State chapter, Sameer focuses on outreach and fundraising. “Our role is to build awareness and connect supporters to the incredible work happening in India,” he says. Over the years, he has hosted teach-ins, organized events and helped strengthen Pratham’s corporate partnerships.

Through Citadel’s Community Leaders program, Sameer found new ways to expand his impact. “Citadel’s support for board service encourages us to bring these causes into the workplace and inspire others to get involved,” he says. He describes the firm’s support as energizing, helping employees turn personal passions into action.

“In finance, you think constantly about efficiency and outcomes,” he adds. “Pratham applies the same mindset to education, measuring impact, adapting quickly and doing more with what they have.”

Sameer’s long-standing commitment to Pratham reflects how focused leadership and collaboration can create lasting change for students in India and communities around the world.

Visit our Civic Leadership page to learn more about our Community Leaders program.