About Us

The seed for the Johnite Launchpad Initiative (JLI) was planted during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in August 2023. It was there that Dr. Dominic Sreshta realized a painful truth: while countless Johnites aspired to opportunities in the United States, there was no real structure or support to help them get there. Earlier efforts had faded, and younger Johnites were left without guidance to the pathway.

Determined to change this, Dr. Sreshta brought the idea forward, and soon found strong allies in Dr. Narayan Baliga, Dr. Raghavan Baliga, Dr. Eddie Pinto, and Dr. Peter D’Sa. Together, they envisioned a dedicated platform: one that would focus solely on students and young alumni, while the Friends of St. John’s continued their work in heritage and property.

After months of groundwork, the idea crystallized on February 15, 2025, and by March 1, 2025, JLI was officially launched. Today, JLI is more than an initiative; it is a bridge for Johnites everywhere, a launchpad for mentorship, placements, and opportunities in North America, carrying forward the spirit of service and excellence that defines St. John’s.