Ashok Verma, a businessman for nearly five decades, has also dedicated his time to supporting organisations particularly through education and skills, helping those that face disadvantage socially and economically.

Ashok came to the UK in 1977 and seeing the great opportunities that were available to him, he succeeded in his dream to run his own business and within a few years, the family business was bearing fruit.  He recognised that if opportunity was enabled, people could maximise their potential. Ashok understood the challenges of struggle, he also knew the comfort of a supportive family that was there to face all the challenges together. He wanted this opportunity for all those children and young people that were disadvantaged both socially and economically.

A graduate from Delhi University, a strong career in public relations, Ashok understood the enormous importance of people to people relationships, the ability to open avenues for others was as rewarding for him as those he supported. His focus particularly on female education and skills is from observing the scale of good change that takes place when action is deliberate.

Supporting many charities, his own Sarla foundation, has raised tens of thousands of pounds to assist education for tribal children in India, serving as Chair of the Rajasthan Bal Kalyan Smriti for over ten years, was founder of the Hans Raj Girls residence, providing education, residential and pastoral care for tribal girls, either because they were orphans or from extremely poor families. 

But he also recognises that there are too many young people in UK, he and his Trustees are determined that local community organisations also benefit from the fundraising of the Foundation.

"The strength and success of all communities are the opportunities they provide" Ashok driver is to support those communities.