With over 12 years of experience as a government school teacher in India, and with a PhD in his field, Dr. Chander Prakash has dedicated his career to shaping young minds and fostering a culture of education and empowerment. His firsthand experience in the education sector has given him deep insights into the challenges faced by underprivileged communities, particularly when it comes to providing equal opportunities for girls.

As one of the key inspirations behind ExtraordiNari Connections, he believes that education is the most powerful tool for breaking cycles of inequality. His leadership as Country Director will drive ExtraordiNari Connections’ mission to uplift and support women and young girls, ensuring they have access to the resources and guidance needed to build independent and dignified lives.

Committed to bridging the gap between potential and opportunity, Chander works tirelessly to create a future where every girl can learn, grow, and thrive—regardless of societal or cultural constraints.

Having studied in, worked in, and traveled many parts of the globe, Heather is passionate about using her talents and experience to create positive change in the world. She believes in the transformative power of education for girls and women, recognizing its potential to uplift individuals, families, communities, and nations. Inspired by founder Preeti's vision and drive, Heather eagerly joined the board to contribute to this impactful cause. Heather uses her professional expertise in marketing to help further ENC’s mission.

Jodi is a dedicated Regional Coordinator for a non-profit organization, committed to making a positive impact in her community. Being a mom to two girls has been the most rewarding and important job for Jodi. Her goal has always been to help her daughters become independent, strong, and self-sufficient while finding the things that make them joyful. Jodi believes that education comes not only from books but also from the world around us. By providing girls with a variety of resources and experiences, she believes we can open up many more opportunities for them. During the seven years she spent in elementary education, she could see first hand how connecting with children, understanding their barriers, and making learning accessible at their level can transform lives.  Outside of her professional and family life, Jodi enjoys dancing, crocheting, practicing yoga, and spending quality time with her daughters.

Carrie Guttman, MSN, RN, is committed to healthcare clinical quality improvement, environmental justice, and equity. As the Director of Quality, Nuvance Health Medical Practices, she leads healthcare performance improvement projects and develops clinical programs in the ambulatory setting. She obtained her undergraduate degree in Comparative Literature from Brown University and started her career in the television and film industry. After 9/11, she made a career change and transitioned to teaching prenatal yoga while pursuing a nursing degree. Carrie earned her BSN from Fairfield University, her MSN from Yale University, and now is a Doctoral candidate at Quinnipiac. The focus of her current studies is Care of Populations, mitigating the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities. Carrie is a “boy mom”, avid gardener, and breast cancer survivor. She enjoys dancing, walking her rescue dog, reading science fiction, watching sunsets on the beach, and digging in the dirt.