Rev. Dr. Kurian Thomas, a Catholic Priest of the Archdiocese  of Madras – Mylapore, a Human right and Social activist who stands for the rights of children in distress and women in difficult circumstances. He is the founder, President and Director of Asha Nivas Social Service Centre, a House of Hope. It was initiated in 1976 with deep concern for the marginalised and exploited section of the society living in Chennai City Slums. He upholds human dignity and social values in his commitment to the poor with an integrated and holistic approach.