A Journey of Hope and Change
Empowering Communities Through Education
A Vision Forged in Conflict, Driven by Hope
Sunbird Trust began with Col. Christopher Rego’s transformative journey, shaped by his experience serving in conflict zones like Mizoram and Manipur. Witnessing the devastation that violence and instability wrought on children and communities, he recognized that education was the key to breaking the cycle of conflict and poverty. In 2008, Col. Rego and his wife, Myrna, started by offering scholarships to a few underserved children. What began as a personal mission grew into a movement, and in 2014, Sunbird Trust was officially born. Guided by the belief that peace is built through education, we set out to empower children in conflict-affected regions of Northeast India. Sunbird Trust’s early success included transforming an Army camp in Puichi Village, Manipur, into a thriving school. This wasn’t just about building infrastructure—it was about igniting a movement of change. Over the years, our work has helped children rise above their circumstances, and many of our alumni are now leaders advocating for peace.
Who We Are
Established in 2014, Sunbird Trust is a non-religious and apolitical not for profit organisation working in remote and conflict affected parts of North East India with the motto of Peace through Education. It facilitates physical and financial access to education through building schools and hostels and providing child sponsorships. It engages with local communities in livelihood development and fostering peace, thus helping build bridges between people here and their countrymen elsewhere in India.
Vision
Building Peace Through Education and empowerment of children and youth in remote and conflict affected areas of North Eastern India.
Mission
To provide 1,00,000 annual scholarships to underserved children from the remote and conflict-affected areas of North-east India by 2030.
To raise 50 schools/hostels in remote and conflict-affected parts of North-east India by 2030.
To positively impact 5,00,000 people from conflict-affected and remote areas of North-east India through community development projects to improve social, emotional and financial well-being by 2030.
What Sets Us Apart?
Inclusive and
Trustworthy
Inclusive and Trustworthy
We operate with neutrality, free from cultural, political, or religious biases, earning the trust of diverse communities.
Focused
on Peace
Focused on Peace
We operate with neutrality, free from cultural, political, or religious biases, earning the trust of diverse communities.
Impactful
Partnerships
Impactful Partnerships
We’ve built a strong network with individuals, corporations, and government bodies to expand our reach and ensure sustainability.
Skilled and
Diverse Team
Skilled and Diverse Team
Our team is made up of professionals with expertise from top institutions, bringing passion and dedication to our cause.
Sustainable
Impact
Sustainable Impact
Our long-term programs empower individuals to break the cycles of poverty and contribute to the unity and progress of their communities.
Notable Achievements
Awarded to Col. Christopher Rego for the Peace through Education model.
Featured in Azim Premji University's “Top 10 Stories of Change (2022-23)”.
Recognized as one of India’s Top 100 NGOs (EdelGive Fund Award 2022-24).
Accredited as great place to work since 2023