Board Members

Michael Massand

President, Founder
Michael Massand was born in India and is now an Overseas Citizen of India. He has an extensive background in international business, during which he had the opportunity to travel around the world for many years. A residential and commercial broker for real estate and insurance in New York for the last 50 years, Michael is now heading Help International with the aim of providing literacy training to the very poor children in need.

“When I began traveling to underprivileged areas in 2000, I was burdened to serve the needs of the many poor children who had no means of education whom I’ve met in my travels. I am grateful for all those who support Help International Inc. offering hope to these precious little ones.”

Nancy Massand

Board Member
Nancy Massand has over 35 years of experience teaching middle school children and mentoring staff. Now transitioning to online education, she is also a writer and life-long learner, Nancy has traveled to India and is committed to the aim of literacy for all children regardless of creed, ethnicity or social status.

“We are all God’s children, and I am excited to be involved in offering a path to literacy for our brothers and sisters who have not been able to experience what so many of us take for granted.”

Gill Thadani

Board Member
Gill Thadani is a businessman from Hong Kong. Upon coming to the US, he opened a retail store in Sparta, North Carolina.  He has been selling custom and casual clothing for families there since 1967. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he has a heart for people and is always ready to help someone in need.

“I enjoy serving my community through different volunteer organizations. I want to help people and educate them through spiritual and general knowledge.

Russell Nitchman

Board Member
Russ Nitchman is a former high school teacher licensed in Science and Agriculture.  He taught as a Plant Science Agriculture teacher, managing 2 acres of cropland, a four bay greenhouse, apple orchard, and nursery in NYC.  He now owns a farm in upstate NY where he is an avid conservationist and improves the habitat for wildlife survival.  He and his wife run their home there as a Bed & Breakfast business.

“I am passionate about being involved in Help International and helping “little ones” in India.  God is for the little ones and these children surely cannot repay what they receive in education and a brighter future. I am a very busy man, but my time here is well spent!”

Timothy Rajah

Board Member
Tim Rajah is a man with a heart for the people.  As an I.T. professional he has worked with people from diverse backgrounds.  He enjoys listening to people and offering I.T. solutions to support their needs.  Tim finds ways to encourage and strengthen their spirits as well.  Tim feels that serving as a board member is a great opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young children.

“Every child deserves an education!”

Miriam Rajah

Board Member
Miriam Rajah is an educator who serves as an assistant principal in a large public high school. She enjoys working with young people and encouraging them to maximize their potentials.  She would like to see that children all around the world have the opportunity for education in order to improve their quality of life.

“Education is the key to a better quality of life”