India Country Manager
Most Global Volunteers service programs are managed by on-site staff who live in our host communities. Stephen Raja Chinnappan has been Global Volunteers' country manager and on-site team leader in India since 2001. Born and raised in Bangalore, he now lives with his wife, Sheeba, and son, Roshan, near the suburb of Porur.
Before leading teams for Global Volunteers, Stephen served as our on-site consultant for almost a year. Stephen earned a bachelor's degree in commerce in India, and operates his own tour business in Chennai, when Global Volunteers' teams are not on-site. He has visited most areas of India, and is versatile in working with visitors from all backgrounds.
"I
cannot say enough about Stephan’s professional and caring manner. He assisted us whenever necessary. He and his staff made this an even more enjoyable experience than I could have imagined."
~ Asia Phillips, India volunteer
"Stephen is the perfect fit for his job! He has incredible patience, great organization skills, and a depth of knowledge. Stephen made this trip incredible."
~ Jon O'Shea, India volunteer
Our country managers have served on one or more volunteer teams, and each year are required to complete our intensive two-week training seminars in Minnesota. They're experienced in managing diverse groups of people, and are formally evaluated by each volunteer team. Country Managers must achieve an established level of performance in order to continue leading Global Volunteers teams. You'll receive program and contact information from Stephen approximately four weeks before your service program begins.
"Stephen is an amazing team leader. He always put the volunteers, children and his family first no matter the obstacle or hour. He is an overall wonderful and beautiful person through and through. I can't even begin to describe what an inspiration he has been to me and the other volunteers."
~ Marion Marsh, India volunteer
"Stephen is someone who will do whatever it takes to accommodate you so that you have the best experience possible. It is easy to see that he is passionate about the work we do. He is incredibly knowledgeable and full of information about India to share with the team."
~ Katie Imholte, India volunteer