Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran

Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran is a passionate advocate for inclusive education, women’s empowerment, and social equity. As Chairperson of RYTHM Foundation, she has steered the organisation towards creating long-term, community-driven impact globally. Under her leadership, the Foundation’s flagship initiative, the Maharani Programme, has transformed the lives of thousands of girls from B40 communities by addressing educational gaps, nurturing self-worth, and shifting deep-seated cultural and gender biases.

Her commitment to inclusion extends to Taarana School, which was established to provide education, therapy, and holistic support for neurodiverse children and those with developmental disabilities. Through Taarana, Datin Sri Umayal continues to champion the rights of children who are often marginalised, advocating for their social integration and access to quality learning opportunities.

In recent years, she has become an influential voice for Malaysia’s indigenous communities, particularly the Orang Asli, championing their right to representation, cultural preservation, and participation in national decision-making. Guided by the philosophy of “Raising Yourself to Help Mankind,” Datin Sri Umayal’s leadership blends compassion with conviction, embodying a belief that sustainable change begins with empathy and empowerment.

Through her work, she continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers — encouraging individuals and institutions alike to engage in meaningful action that uplifts communities and fosters a more just and equitable society.

Making an impact means creating pathways for those who have been left behind – whether it’s a child with special needs gaining access to education, an indigenous community securing their rights and livelihoods, or a marginalised group finding their voice. It’s not about grand gestures or recognition, but about the quiet, persistent work of empowering communities to lift themselves up with dignity and agency. True impact happens when we work hand-in-hand with people, respecting their wisdom and culture, so they can create sustainable change that lasts for generations.