The 2022 Internship Team

(Click on any bio picture to learn more)

Nicholas is very excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. He is interested in working in the non-profit field in developing nations in the future and has a love for helping others.

Nicholas enjoys playing video games and discussing philosophy and politics. He is the president and co-founder of his school's Philosophical Debate Club. He is also a member of the Interact Club and he has been working in the International Internship program since his sophomore year of high school.

Nicholas Abele is enrolled in the Early College at Guilford. Nicholas is a Dean's-List student at Guilford College, enrolled in college classes as part of the Early College program.

Business Program Development Intern

The Early College at Guilford, Class of 2022

Nick Abele

Gisela is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She is curious and interested in learning about the different illnesses and diseases that affect people, especially children, around the world. Gisela feels an experience in a real hospital setting will be even more inspiration to become a physician.

Gisela is determined to pursue a future career in pediatrics. She enjoys volunteering with ODS (Open Door Sports) as a peer buddy. There, she is part of the collaborative effort to build a more inclusive community by playing sports with kids with special needs and financial challenges. Since middle school, she has been a dedicated and active member of the First Aid Unit at the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad. Her experience learning life saving first aid with the squad has furthered her passion of being a physician. She is trained and certified in Airborne and Bloodborne Pathogens, Standard First Aid, and Healthcare Provider CPR.

Gisela Attah Hayford is a rising sophomore at Walter Johnson High School. Gisela is enrolled in her school's Advanced Placement program with a Science focus. She works to maintain her academic excellence as an Honors of distinction and now Honor Roll student, while spending time with family and friends.

Medical Program Development Intern

Walter Johnson High School Class of 2024

Gisela Attah Hayford

Samiha is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern because she has a passion for outreach. She has participated in LI Youth Development Programs, as well as their International Internship Program, and has walked away knowing that she can use her place of privilege to make a difference. She cannot wait to continue doing so this summer.

Samiha loves science, English, and the performing arts. She is a co-founder of Walton's creative writing club and is also involved in drama club and HOSA.

Samiha Bala is a rising junior at George Walton Comprehensive High School. She is an honors student who enjoys taking on new challenges and new experiences.

Business Program Development Intern

George Walton Comprehensive, Class of 2023

Samiha Bala

Maziar is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. He enjoys learning about national security and intelligence and hopes to someday be a diplomat. In the future, Maziar wants to take the skills he has learned and help to make the world more safe and secure.

Maziar Beiramee enjoys playing soccer and playing the piano. At school, he is the Co-President of the Middle Eastern Student's Association. During his free time, he enjoys playing soccer, traveling, and reading.

Maziar Beiramee is a rising junior at St. Andrew's Episcopal School. Maziar is a dedicated high honor student who is enrolled in both Advanced Placement and Honors courses.

Security Program Development Intern

St. Andrew's Episcopal School, Class of 2023

Maziar Beiramee

Haarika is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She loves studying science, math, and medical-related subjects and hopes to become a cardiologist in the future. With the experience she will gain through this internship and others, Haarika hopes to create new innovations in the field of cardiology.

Haarika enjoys singing and playing the piano. At school, she is the co-founder and co-president of the Unicef Club. Haarika is also a member of HOSA, Science National Honors Society, Spanish National Honors Society, and National Honors Society. Haarika is also a varsity shot put and discus thrower for her high school’s track team. During her free time, Haarika likes staying active by exercising and going on walks with her family.

Haarika Bondalapati is a rising senior at William Mason High School. Haarika is an honor roll student who challenges herself by taking a combination of Advanced Placement and honors classes. Haarika is also in the 4-year Biomedical Sciences Program at her school.

Medical Program Development Intern

William Mason High School, Class of 2022

Haarika Bondalapati

Nadia is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. Since middle school, Nadia has been interested in being an attorney after she was frequently recognized for her debating skills. After taking part in Mock Trial her freshman year of high school, Nadia knew her future career would be an attorney. In the future, Nadia hopes to use everything she has learned to make the justice system and the world better for everyone.

In school, Nadia has been a part of the Student Council and will continue during her senior year as an Executive Officer. Nadia has also been the President of the Toastmasters Club, an attorney for her school’s Mock Trial team, and a part of the We Are All Educators Organization. Because of her passion for dance, Nadia is a member of the school’s Dance Team, the Honors Classical Dance program, the Honors Sankofa Company, and the Fine Arts Diploma Endorsing Program. She is also a member of the National Honor Society in addition to the honor societies for Dance, English, and History.

Nadia Brittain is a rising senior at Bishop McNamara High School. Throughout her academic career, she has maintained an honor roll student status while participating in multiple activities. Nadia also grew up in a bilingual home and is well versed in the Spanish language.

Law Program Development Intern

Bishop McNamara High School, Class of 2022

Nadia Brittain

Ignacio is really looking forward to be a Leadership Initiatives intern, as he intends to go on and study economics, a field he believes is intrinsically tied to the world of business and leaders.

Ignacio loves doing extracurriculars, particularly academic ones, though occasionally artistic too. He has a notable affinity for MUN-type conferences, being the sole founder and leader of his school's MUN Club. He's certified as a tutor for Google Drive technology and working for certification in Google Ads too. He also does a great deal of community work, including teaching at an English language workshop for non-natives, donating food to a local meal center, and working as a regional leader in the SDG-focused NGO MUN Impact.

Ignacio Camps is a senior at St George's College Quilmes, a fairly prestigious, bilingual British school in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program, which he does alongside the Argentine national curriculum.

Business Program Development Intern

St George's College Quilmes, Class of 2021

Ignacio Camps

Kaitlyn is extremely excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She hopes to expand her knowledge and gain new insights into the world of medicine. Kaitlyn plans to carry this knowledge into her future and attend medical school.

As a former competitive gymnast, Kaitlyn now coaches gymnasts of all ages and skill levels. At school, she is an active participant in Chemistry Club and Medical Club. Kaitlyn also competes on both the math team and the PSAL STUNT team.

Kaitlyn Chan is a rising senior at The Scholars’ Academy in Rockaway Park, New York. She is a hard-working honor student who continues to challenge herself through multiple Advanced Placement classes. She earned a spot in the National Honor Society and is consistently on the Principal’s List.

Medical Program Development Intern

Scholars' Academy, Class of 2022

Kaitlyn Chan

Ava is thrilled to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She always enjoys learning more about the clinical and public health fields and hopes to use this knowledge in her future.

Ava is an active participant in her school community, particularly in the Think Pink Club and the Media Literacy and Political Awareness Club. She recently joined the tennis team at Visitation for their spring season.

Ava Easton is a rising senior at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School. She is a current First Honors student, enrolled in both Advanced Placement and Honors courses.

Medical Program Development Intern

Georgetown Visitation, Class of 2022

Ava Easton

Isabelle is eager to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She is very interested in working internationally in various trades and collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs. Isabelle hopes to take what she learns in this course and apply it to real-life situations and become successful in the future.

Isabelle’s hobbies include softball and playing tennis. At school, she is a part of various clubs, such as Think Pink, a breast care awareness club, French club, and a member of Model UN. She is an active member in her community, doing service for school and in her local parish. Isabelle loves reading and exercising.

Isabelle Easton is a rising junior at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School. Isabelle is a committed and enthusiastic student, who is enrolled in Advanced Placement, Honors, and Accelerated courses. She is a motivated honors student, earning first honors throughout her sophomore year.

Medical Program Development Intern

Georgetown Visitation, Class of 2022

Isabelle Easton

Julius is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. In addition to this, he hopes that the internship will help him understand other people and his own mind better.

Julius is very interested in studying abroad and collecting all sorts of experiences that will help him in his future working career. He also worked as a Mentor for new students to help them get started at university. In his free time, he likes to dance, go to the gym and write stories.

Julius Ebert is studying Automation and Robotics in his sixth semester at the UAS Coburg. He is currently writing his Bachelors's Thesis.

Business Program Development Intern

Coburg University, Class of 2022

Julius Ebert

Olivia is very excited to attend the National Security and Intelligence Internship this summer as it directly relates to her college major and interests. In the future, Olivia hopes to pursue a career in counterterrorism.

At school, Olivia has served positions such as Senior Creative Writing Editor of the Creative Writing Club, Senior Student Ambassador Leader of Student Government, and Vice President of the National Honor Society. She also participates in Debate Club and has held positions in numerous Model United Nations conferences, including the chair, under-secretary-general, and chief of staff. In her free time, Olivia loves to bake, play with her dogs, use far too many face masks, and obsess over true crime podcasts.

Olivia Franse is a recent graduate of the online academy, Laurel Springs School. In the fall, Olivia plans to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to major in Homeland Security and a double minor in Emergency Management and Intelligence Studies.

Security Program Development Intern

Laurel Springs School, Class of 2021

Olivia Franse

Nishi is very excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She is extremely passionate about learning about the medical field and hopes to one day become a surgeon. In the future, Nishi hopes to use the knowledge and experience from this internship to conduct and explore her own anatomical research.

Nishi loves to play tennis and competes at the national level. She has qualified for Internationals for HOSA and is an active member of National Honors Society and SIBS.

Nishi Gandra is a rising junior at William Mason High School. Nishi is enrolled in multiple Advanced Placement courses and is a student of the Biomedical Sciences class.

Medical Program Development Intern

William Mason High School, Class of 2023

Nishi Gandra

Veena Ganti is eager to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She enjoys spending her time learning more about Neurology and wants to dive deeper in the intersection of Anthropology, Neurology, and sociological pre-diagnosis studies. Veena Ganti will take her skills forward to her research pursuits.

Veena Ganti is a highly motivated researcher, creative writer, and avid reader. Veena Ganti competes in the HOSA event Epidemiology at an international level, and also competes at numerous tournaments as an International Extemporaneous Speaker. Veena Ganti is also a member of the National Honor Society and has started a youth led committee at her temple.

Veena Ganti is a rising senior at William Mason High School. Veena Ganti is an ambitious student and is enrolled in Honors, AP, and dual enrollment classes at her school.

Medical Program Development Intern

William Mason High School, Class of 2022

Veena Ganti

Grace is a member of JV Softball, Young Democrats, Model UN, Speech and Debate, Student Council, and Sophomore Class President. In her free time, she loves to read, write, and listen to music. Grace can also play the guitar and ukulele!

Grace is very pleased to be taking part in the Advanced Law & Trial Internship this summer! She has always found passion in public service and different forms of advocacy. In the future, Grace hopes to work in Government and Law; and carry the skills and experience gained this summer with her.

Grace is an incoming junior at Liberty High School. She is a passionate learner enrolled in all honors and Advanced Placement courses.

Law Program Development Intern

Liberty High School, Class of 2023

Grace Gialde

Lindsay is ecstatic to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She hopes to take what she learns in the internship to further her thirst for knowledge in the medical field. When she’s older Lindsay hopes to be to work in public health. She plans to use what she’s learned to make a real impact in medicine in developing countries.

Lindsay enjoys learning of all types. She is particularly interested in chemistry, and she enjoys attending scientific lectures. Lindsay has played the flute all through out her high school career and enjoys playing and listening to music. In addition to her academics, Lindsay finds joy cookie making and yoga.

Lindsay Haney is a rising senior at Bishop Moore Catholic High School. In addition to being enrolled in rigorous Advanced Placement courses, Lindsay is an active member on the debate team and in her school’s band.

Medical Program Development Intern

Bishop Moore Catholic High School, Class of 2022

Lindsay Haney

Tejasvi is extremely excited to be a Leadership Initaitives intern.

Tejasvi is part of the IIP Law and Advocacy program through which she is tackling the issue of sexual abuse of women in children in Nigeria and Bauchi. She has also been conducting biochemistry research for the past year. The research aims to find the effects of herbal bio-enhancers on a model drug. She is also an avid member of her school's speech team, and is in fact speech captain! She has been nationally recognized for her speeches, and was an octo-finalist at the 2021 Tournament of Champions.

Tejasvi Hariharan is a rising senior at the Quarry Lane School in Dublin, California. She is extremely passionate about biology, psychology and leadership. She is the founder and executive director of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization called SHE: Sustainable, Heard and Empowered which strives to eradicate period poverty in our society by promoting sustainable, hygienic methods.

Medical Program Development Intern

The Quarry Lane School, Class of 2022

Tejasvi Hariharan

Pradnya is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern as she loves to read about the brain and this is an opportunity for her to learn more about what she loves. She is an avid brain enthusiast and she is grateful to LI for this wonderful opportunity. She wants to take more knowledge and help people understand themselves and make them aware of their responsibilities towards the greater good.

Pradnya enjoys listening to music, playing different instruments, reading books, writing blogs, cooking, and watching movies. She is the Team lead for the Next Genius college research program for Mississippi. She loves to read about different research work and medical cases as well.

Pradnya Jagdale is a high school student at Fergusson Junior College in Pune , India . She is a inter college and state level winner of Brain Bee Championship . She is also as of now a national competitor for Indian National Brain Bee among top 14 students all over India . She is a Next Genius Scholarship winner for year 2021 . She has also completed a graphology course and she is a certified graphologist .

Medical Program Development Intern

Fergusson Junior College, Class of 2021

Pradnya Jagdale

Rohan has been a part of the Mock Trial team for several years now and has completed an internship at the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office this past summer. This unparalleled access to law for a high school student has made him realize the potential for law as a future career. This internship offers an amazing experience for Rohan to delve deeper into his growing interests for the field.

Rohan is the president of the Mock Trial team at Culver City High School as well as the captain of the Science Bowl team. Rohan is also an active member on the high school varsity tennis team. Rohan also likes to volunteer and has aided in food drives, at the local library, and especially in the setup of the Math Olympiads regional competition, hosted at Rohan's elementary school. Building on this foundation in math, Rohan also works at the local Mathnasium, a tutoring center.

Rohan is a rising senior at Culver City High School. Rohan is a determined student who is enrolled in many honors and Advanced Placement classes. When school is out of session, Rohan enjoys spending time with his friends and traveling to different countries and national parks.

Law Program Development Intern

Culver City High School, Class of 2022

Rohan Jain

Rishika aspires to practice space medicine in the future. She is honored to be learning and making a difference through this internship.

She is the founder and CEO of a 501c3 nonprofit organization called Little Helpers. Apart from this, she also co-leads a youth philanthropy club and Science Olympiad team. Rishika is also an active member in HOSA, Mason High School's Student Government, and Science Olympiad.

Rishika Jeyaprakash is an incoming sophomore at William Mason High School.

Medical Program Development Intern

William Mason High School, Class of 2024

Rishika Jeyaprakash

Leah Kabuto is looking forward to taking part in the Advanced Medical and Public Health Internship this summer. Leah wants to become a pediatrician in the future and is hopeful that her experience this summer will help bring her closer to her future career.

Leah Kabuto is a member of the Coyotes’ Matter Club and the Mental Health Awareness Club. Leah enjoys serving and giving back to her community. She has volunteered with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the British Red Cross. Leah enjoys listening to music, dancing and reading among other things.

Leah Kabuto is a rising senior at Clarksburg High School. She is dedicated to her studies and has made Honor roll each year at Clarksburg.

Medical Program Development Intern

Clarksburg High School, Class of 2022

Leah Kabuto

Lydia has been a part of the International Internship Program (IIP) for 3 years working as media tech and team lead in the Bandung, Indonesia chapter. She is excited to be working as a Leadership Initiatives intern. She has a strong heart for those who are affected by injustice and strives to advocate for the people against the injustices faced.

Lydia Kim is currently a senior at Berkeley High School. She is dedicated to academics as well as leadership. She is a member of the National Honors Society, a part of her school’s leadership council as well as student leadership, and an illustrator for her school’s newspaper.

Business Program Development Intern

Berkeley High School, Class of 2022

Lydia Kim

Kyubin is thrilled to be a Leadership Initiatives intern and has a strong interest in the medical field and aspires to be a family physician one day. She loves research projects and believes that she can learn many new skills while strengthening her previous ones and is excited to meet a group of like-minded peers.

At school, Kyubin takes on a variety of leadership roles for clubs. This includes being the president of both HOSA and MEDLIFE in addition to being the vice president of Athletic Council and Baycrest Hospital Partnership Council. Kyubin also takes initiative outside of school by volunteering in her community. She assists the nurses at the Apotex Centre of Baycrest Hospital and serves meals alongside haircut sessions for the homeless of Toronto at Evangel Hall. She also recently began shadowing Dr. John Lee in his family physician practice in which her main responsibilities entails patient reception, scheduling appointments, and collecting accurate data records. During her free time, Kyubin loves playing the violin and she uses this talent to serenade the audience at senior residence homes and is also part of the Sohrae Youth Orchestra.

Kyubin Kim is currently a senior at William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute. Kyubin is part of the MaCS program at her school which offers enriched English, Mathematics, Science and Computer Science courses for advanced students. Kyubin enjoys skiing and is a certified ski instructor at Uplands! She guides individuals of all ages and has experience creating lessons for children with physical disabilities. Passionate about improving the lives of the youth, Kyubin created a non-profit organization that strives to deliver care packages to those experiencing hardships throughout the pandemic. The first target group was homeless youth, and with the $500 that was raised through a Go Fund Me site, she distributed and made care packages for the children at Horizons for Youth.

Medical Program Development Intern

William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute, Class of 2022

Kyubin Kim

Kushal Kothapalli is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. He loves to learn about the human body and hopes to be an surgeon one day. In the future, Kushal wants to incorporate all the skills he has gained in order to make a difference.

Kushal Kothapalli enjoys running Cross Country and Track. At school, he is a member of HOSA, National Honors Society, and Speech and Debate. Kushal also engages in public health projects through Leadership Initiatives. Furthermore, Kushal participates in genomic research.

Kushal Kothapalli is a rising junior at William Mason Highschool. Kushal is a dedicated, hardworking honors student who is enrolled in both Advnaced Placement and Dual Enrollment courses.

Medical Program Development Intern

William Mason High School, Class of 2023

Kushal Kothapalli

Seungmyoung is excited to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She is also very excited to gain a global perspective in issues related to Neuroscience and Public Health as she is able to meet interns from numerous backgrounds and to share her stories with them.

Seungmyoung participates in numerous activities related to youth mental health and scientific research as her passion lies in helping young people thrive and live happier lives through a stronger understanding of their brain, mind, and health. At school, she is a Co-Head of her school's HOSA chapter and a Co-Head of Chamber Strings. She is also the Diversity Council Student Life Representative of the senior school, sharing her enthusiasm for improving wellness through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She is a National Conference Coordinator at LetsStopAIDS and is one of the 18 Youth Advisors at the Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. She is currently conducting research about CRISPR's role in alleviating colour-blindness with one of the Neuroscience labs at Brown University. Seungmyoung enjoys playing the violin, doing yoga, meditating, and sharing her stories and experiences with others.

Seungmyoung Lee is a motivated and empathetic student with a strong passion for children's health and the intersections between Psychology and Neuroscience. She is completing her International Baccalaureate and Ontario Secondary School Diploma at Branksome Hall, Toronto, Canada.

Medical Program Development Intern

Branksome Hall, Class of 2023

Seungmyoung Lee

Dayoon is passionate about the medical field, and through the Leadership Initiatives internship, she hopes to explore her many interests in the field. During the internship, she is excited to participate in a hands-on learning experience from home. In the future, Dayoon hopes to pursue a career in medicine.

Dayoon is the Co-President of her school's UNICEF chapter and is a part of National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Chinese Honor Society, and the California Scholarship Federation. She is also involved in various STEM and music-related activities, where she shares her love for both subjects to children in the community. In her free time, Dayoon enjoys baking and drawing.

Dayoon Lee is a rising senior at the Orange County School of the Arts in the Instrumental Music conservatory, where she studies the flute. Dayoon is both an honors and AP student, who has furthered her education through BYU's Independent Study program.

Medical Program Development Intern

Orange County School of the Arts, Class of 2022

Jamie Lee

Law Program Development Intern

Dublin Jerome High School, Class of 2024

Sai Rishik Lingam

Leah Kabuto is looking forward to taking part in the Advanced Medical and Public Health Internship this summer. Leah wants to become a pediatrician in the future and is hopeful that her experience this summer will help bring her closer to her future career.

Leah Kabuto is a member of the Coyotes’ Matter Club and the Mental Health Awareness Club. Leah enjoys serving and giving back to her community. She has volunteered with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the British Red Cross. Leah enjoys listening to music, dancing and reading among other things.

Leah Kabuto is a rising senior at Clarksburg High School. She is dedicated to her studies and has made Honor roll each year at Clarksburg.

Danielle is excited to have the opportunity through Leadership Initiatives to empower students to pursue their ambitions and to help motivated students from all walks of life to further their high school careers.

Danielle Liu was raised in Yorba Linda, California. She studies at Chapman University, where she pursues a double major in health sciences and violin performance. As a violinist, Danielle actively performs as a soloist and chamber musician across Orange County.

Danielle Liu is a collegiate intern with Leadership Initiatives. She is responsible for assisting Leadership Initiatives with board development and international programming. She also helps with student outreach, informing students in other schools about Leadership Initiatives and helping to expand the program.

Medical Program Development Intern

The Chapman University, Class of 2022

Danielle Liu

Law Program Development Intern

St. Andrews Episcopal School, Class of 2022

Rushien Maghsoud

Rushien is eager to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. She is intrigued by law and many cases in the US and hopes one day to pursue a career as a Lawyer.

Rushien is very passionate about Tennis and Lacrosse as she is apart of the Varsity teams at her school. During her free-time Rushien enjoys painting and reading as well as spending time with animals. At school Rushien is very integrated into her school community being part of many leadership programs, such as, Student Ambassador, Peer Leaders, Model UN and Peer Tutors. She is also a member of Hearts for Hati and the Bokomoso club, which help other students from around the world better their education.

Rushien Maghsoud is a rising Senior at St. Andrews Episcopal School in Potomac, MD. Rushien Maghsoud is a committed honor student who is enrolled in multiple Advanced Placement courses.

Sarah is excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship. She wishes to become a lawyer when she grows up. Sarah will carry the skills she takes from this internship into the future.

Sarah plays field hockey and is a member of the community service team at her school. Her two favorite foods to make are french toast and banana bread. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, biking, going on long walks and spending time with her friends.

Sarah Marghub is a rising junior at Bullis. She is a high honor roll student who is passionate about learning. She is a part of Bullis's National Honors Society chapter and is a member of the Conduct Review Board.

Law Program Development Intern

Bullis School, Class of 2023

Sarah Marghub

Medical Program Development Intern

New World School of the Arts, Class of 2022

Ashley Mendoza

Ashley Mendoza is excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship. She loves learning about medicine and hopes to someday be an OBGYN or Pediatrician. In the future Ashley wants to take the skills she has learned and help patients feel safe and comfortable seeking medical help.

Ashley enjoys solving puzzles and making art. At school she is President of NAHS which operates the day to day life of an art student. As well, she serves as a national Executive Board member to the Health Information Project, where she helps to educate students across the country about their health, and issues related to their age group, in an innovative format. During her free time she loves to build a nice lego set or to play some Mario Kart.

Ashley Mendoza is a rising senior at New World School of the Arts Highschool. Ashley Mendoza is a hardworking and caring honor student who both challenges her self in the classroom and outside of the classroom.

Gabriel is thrilled to be participating in the National Security & Intelligence Internship this summer. He wants to learn and understand more about what keeps our great country protected and he is looking forward to expanding his knowledge and experience. In the coming years, Gabriel wants to take his experiences with Leadership Initiatives and help make a positive difference in our country and the world.

Gabriel loves playing football and basketball. At school, Gabriel will be playing football as a wide receiver. Gabriel also volunteers at his local church as an assistant in youth bible studies. During his free time, Gabriel enjoys watching sports and fishing.

Gabriel Menendez is a rising junior at Nease High School in Ponte Vedra Beach. He is an honors student who will be taking AP and Honors classes this coming fall.

Business Program Development Intern

Nease High School, Class of 2023

Gabriel Menendez

Medical Program Development Intern

Lake Highland Preparatory School, Class of 2022

Abdullah Mohammed

Abdullah is excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship. He loves learning about Medical and Physics-based science and would like to be a Sports-Orthopedic. In the future, Abdullah wants to take the skills he has learned and developed in order to make advances in societies which are in need of them.

Abdullah playing tennis and watching Basketball. At school, he is the Vice President of his school’s Share The Sports Club. He is also the Captain of the school’s Varsity Tennis Team, a member of the Pre-Med, UNICEF, Investment Club, and National Honor Society. During his free time, Abdullah is an avid Philadelphia 76ers fan and loves to be involved in local volunteering opportunities with his friends.

Abdullah Mohammed is a Senior at Lake Highland Prep. Abdullah Mohammed is a dedicated high honors student who is enrolled in both Advanced Placement and Honors courses.

Shreya is excited to be participating in the Advanced Medical Neuroscience internship this summer. After attending the Advanced Medical and Public Health summit, she knew that this program was the one for her. Shreya also loves trying out new things and hopes that this program will inspire her to pursue a career in this field of study. In the future, Shreya wants to take the leadership skills she has learned and use them towards all her goals and aspirations in life.

Shreya enjoys dancing and has been taking classes for nine years now. At school, she is involved in HOSA, FBLA, and DECA, where she has participated in state wide competitions. Shreya has also worked at her local grocery store for the last two years now, and plans to continue throughout high school. During her free time, Shreya enjoys reading and trying out new recipes.

Shreya Muralidhar is a rising junior at Lambert High School. Shreya is a dedicated honor student who is enrolled in both Advanced Placement and honors courses. She has been with Leadership Initiatives for two years now and plans to continue for many years to come.

Medical Program Development Intern

Lambert High School, Class of 2023

Shreya Muralidhar

Medical Program Development Intern

Georgetown Visitation, Class of 2022

Simryn Musante

Simryn is very excited to be a part of the Advanced Neuroscience Summit this summer. She loves learning about medicine and sees it as a possible career in the future. Simryn wants to use the skills acquired from this summit in order to develop her own knowledge of the field as well as help others in the future.

Simryn plays on her school’s tennis team and also enjoys playing hockey. She is a member of the Think Pink Club, Help the Homeless Club, and Ski Club. She is also a member of the Spanish Honor Society. During her free time, Simryn loves spending time with friends as well as cooking.

Simryn Musante is a rising junior at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School. Simryn is a dedicated student who is enrolled in both honors and Advanced Placement courses.

Business Program Development Intern

Lynbrook High School, Class of 2023

Vineeta Muvvala

Vineeta is ecstatic to participate in the International Leadership and Business Internship program this summer. She loves coming up with new, creative business solutions, and can’t wait to interact with professors and students from across the world. With her new knowledge, she hopes to make an impact on the business world in the future.

With an interest in computer science, business, and public speaking, Vineeta hopes to pursue the field of business and biotechnology in the future. At school, she serves as the president of DECA, a competitive entrepreneurship club, and is also the president of Intersections, a social justice club. In her free time, Vineeta enjoys cooking new recipes and experimenting with different graphic design tools.

Vineeta Muvvala is a rising junior at Lynbrook High School.

Law Program Development Intern

King's College London, Class of 2024

Oladimeji Olatunbosun

Striving to create global change, Oladimeji currently volunteers with children of Syrian refugees in her community, teaching them to read. Driven by her love for people, Oladimeji will be attending King’s College London to pursue a degree in law this fall.

She is grateful to come back as an intern and is looking forward to ensuring all participants have the same incredible experience that she did. Oladimeji is current the Head Prefect of Brentwood College School, where she has the opportunity to give students, teachers, and parents a voice.

Oladimeji is a new Law Program Development Intern. After participating in the Tier II Advanced Law and Trial Summit in 2019, she knew she had to stay connected with Leadership Initiatives in any way possible.

Business Program Development Intern

Washington-Liberty High School, Class of 2023

Devan Opper

Devan is excited to participate in the Advanced Medical and Public Health Internship because he hopes to explore the topic of global health this summer. Additionally, Devan is very interested in global economics, and the Advanced Medical and Public Internship will enable him to explore the topic of global health on a deeper level.

Devan has also competed at the national level in geography and history competitions and has conducted research about emerging and frontier markets. Outside of academics, he enjoys chess, piano, and tennis.

Devan is a rising junior at Washington-Liberty High School in Arlington, Virginia. He is the president of the It's Academic (Quiz Bowl) team and competes against other high schools in Virginia, DC, and Maryland.

Law Program Development Intern

St. Andrews Episcopal, Class of 2022

Sophia Papademetriou

Sophia is looking forward to learning more about business, growing her leadership skills, and expanding her knowledge. Finally, she is delighted to have the opportunity to participate in this program and explore business opportunities and the realm of business as a future career path.

Sophia strives to be a confident, determined, and thoughtful leader to all of her classmates as well as on her school's lacrosse team and on her dive team.

Sophia Papademetriou is a rising junior attending St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac, Maryland. Sophia is a driven and diligent high honor student who has specific interests in Biology and History. As well as her interests in Biology and History, she aspires to contribute to her community through community service and fundraising.

Medical Program Development Intern

The Middlesex County Academy, Class of 2023

Kisha Patel

Kisha is excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship and get some insight into the field she is interested in while simultaneously helping others. She enjoys studying about health and biomedical sciences and aspires to be a surgeon. She hopes to use the talents she's gained to assist and enhance medical research in the future.

Kisha enjoys both dancing and drawing. At school, she holds a seat as Treasurer on the junior class council. She is also a member of several nonprofits that help kids around the world dive deeper into the world of STEM. During her free time, Kisha enjoys reading and designing various types of graphics.

Kisha Patel is a rising junior at The Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences. She is a diligent student who takes Honors, PLTW, Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment classes.

Law Program Development Intern

Eastside Catholic High School, Class of 2022

Thaddeus Schaefer

Thaddeus is excited to be part of the Leadership Initiatives internship because he feels that it is a way to not only have an impact on his local community, but to have an impact internationally. He believes that it will be a great way to learn how to coordinate an advocacy campaign and to have an impact on solving the issues in Bauchi.

Thaddeus plays both Golf and Lacrosse. He also has lettered in community service his freshman and sophomore years, completing over 100 hours of service each year. Thaddeus participates in his school's JSA club and helps his Chinese teacher run the Chinese Culture Club. Thaddeus enjoys reading and hanging out with friends, as well as doing any service that he can in his free time.

Thaddeus is a junior at Eastside Catholic School. Thaddeus is a dedicated student who works hard both in an out of the classroom.

Medical Program Development Intern

Skyline High School, Class of 2022

Eric Shiu

Eric Shiu is overjoyed and excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship. He loves learning about medical science and hopes to someday be a medical physician. In the future, Eric Shiu wants to take all the skills that he has learned from this experience and use it help advance medicine.

At school, he is the Vice President for his school’s Pencils of Promise Club and participates in his school’s cross country and track team. Additionally, he is also a member of HOSA, National Honor Society, and Science National Honor Society. During his free time, Eric Shiu enjoys reading and jogging.

Eric Shiu is a Senior at Skyline High School. Eric Shiu is a dedicated honor student who is enrolled in multiple International Baccalureate classes and a candidate for receiving an IB diploma.

Medical Program Development Intern

The Stonybrook School, Class of 2024

Uma Shtrom

Uma is very excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship. She has always been interested in medical science and how neuroscience connects to other specialties. She wants to be a surgeon in the future and is very interested in future advancements in neuroscience.

Uma is a competitive fencer who trains very dilligently. She is also a member of her school’s International Council and the Admissions Council. Additionally, she is heavily involved in the school’s Mock Trial team. Uma is recognized for her proficiency in language learning with multiple national awards in both Latin and Italian. During her free time, Uma enjoys reading, writing creatively, painting, playing clarinet and running.

Uma Shtrom is a rising sophomore at the Stonybrook School. She is enrolled in Advanced Placement classes and all available honors classes. When she went to public school she was involved with the National Junior Honor Society and was given All-Academic Honors recognition for her grades and prevalence in sports.

Law Program Development Intern

Dakota Adventist Academy, Class of 2021

Twainé Smit

Twaine Smit is excited to be participating in the Leadership Initiatives internship program She loves learning and observing what she will do in her future career as a criminal justice lawyer. In the future, Twaine Smit wants to take the skills she has learnt and apply them to her future cases she will receive.

Twaine Smit enjoys dancing, singing and playing sports. At school, she was the Student Association’s President. She was a Resident Assistant. Twaine Smit was captain of her Volleyball team and she enjoyed playing basketball. Twaine Smit volunteered being an assistant helper at a Robotics event.

Twaine Smit is a graduate from Dakota Adventist Academy situated in Bismarck North Dakota. Twaine Smit is enrolled in the Criminal justice program at University of North Dakota this coming fall.

Medical Program Development Intern

Georgetown Visitation, Class of 2022

Zoe Somerville

Zoe has been a member of Leadership Initiatives for four years now as both an intern and a staff member, and she is thrilled to be back as a team lead of an IP team focusing on medicine. In the future Zoe hopes to continue her love of neuro and become a pediatric neurosurgeon.

Zoe enjoys playing volleyball, rugby, and theatre. Outside of school, she is involved in the Gonzaga Drama Association at Gonzaga High school. She is also the president of a peer mentoring group at school, a student advisor, and a member of the black women’s society.

Zoe Somerville is a senior at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School. Currently she is an honors student enrolled in four AP classes.

Business Program Development Intern

St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Class of 2023

Bryson Soviero

Bryson is extremely excited to be part of the National Security & Intelligence Internship. Being very passionate about community service, he is looking forward to helping make Yobe State University while learning how to make the United States and the world a safer place.

Bryson is involved in several extracurricular activities inside and outside school. He plays the trumpet and french horn in the jazz and concert band at St. Thomas Aquinas. Bryson is also an avid sports fanatic and enjoys watching and play them. He is on the varsity golf team at his school and enjoys playing the game. Bryson also volunteers at his local course and teaches younger kids how to play golf. He also volunteers several times a year at the local homeless shelter in his town.

Bryson Soviero is a rising junior at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. For his sophomore year, he took all honors courses and one AP course at his high school.

Medical Program Development Intern

St. Catherine of Siena Academy, Class of 2023

Elaina Starzacher

Elaina is excited to partake in this opportunity to further her skills in knowledge regarding public health. Her joy is in helping people and her eventual goal is to become a psychiatrist. Furthermore, she hopes these two weeks will better prepare her to help lead her IIP team this upcoming year.

Elaina enjoys acting and robotics. She is involved in her schools theater program and robotics team. She is also on her school’s varsity Pom Pon team. Elaina is also an avid volunteer spending her time with her church and with Leadership Initiatives’ International Internship Program.

Elaina Starzacher is a rising junior at St. Catherine of Siena Academy in Wixom, Michigan. Elaina is a dedicated student who is enrolled in both Advanced Placement and honors courses.

Medical Program Development Intern

South County High School, Class of 2025

Jessica Vargo

Jessica is excited to participate in the Advanced Medical and Public Health summit this summer and is ready to learn more about medical science. Jessica hopes to become a Neurosurgeon so that she can help improve the quality of life for children with neurological differences.

Jessica is a competitive gymnast and works hard both in school and at the gym to better herself in all aspects of her life. She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and was a member of her school’s Science Olympiad team, winning second place in the mousetrap event at the 2020 Regional competition.

Jessica Vargo is a rising freshman at South County High School. Jessica is determined and passionate about STEM. She takes all advanced courses and received the 2021 President’s Award for Educational Excellence.

Business Program Development Intern

Georgetown Visitation, Class of 2023

Sydney Vargo

Sydney is thrilled to be given the opportunity to be a Leadership Initiatives intern. After working with LI’s business program, she is excited to impact change in a different field.

Outside of the classroom, Sydney is the Head of Sound for her school's Performing Arts Department and was recognized in the past school year with a "Techie of the Year" award and an invitation to join the International Thespian Society. Sydney is a competitive horseback rider and enjoys listening to music, playing guitar and drums, spending time with her sisters, and reading.

Sydney is a rising junior at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School in Washington, D.C. She is dedicated to academic excellence and is taking multiple AP courses in the fall. She has been working with Leadership Initiatives since the summer of 2020 through the International Leadership and Business Internship, the International Internship Program, and the Leadership Initiatives Internship.

Business Program Development Intern

William Mason High School, Class of 2023

Sanjana Velu

Sanjana is excited to be a part of the Advanced Medical and Public Health Internship this summer! She feels that it ties in perfectly with her love for science and helping others, and aspires to become a pediatrician in the future. By participating in this internship, Sanjana is excited to meet others who share her passion for medicine as well as learn many new things that will definitely help her achieve her goal and work to help make advances in the medical field.

At her school, Sanjana is a member of Science Olympiad, Medical Club, Student Government, and the Speech and Debate team. Sanjana is also the Class Vice President, founder and Co-President of the Red Cross Club at her school, and a member and the Secretary of HOSA. Sanjana is also a part of her school’s Varsity track and field team, and has been since 7th grade. Outside of school, she is an active volunteer at Bethesda North Hospital and is a peer tutor at her local library and member of her local library’s Teen Advisory Board. Sanjana has also started and currently coordinates a peer tutoring program at a local nonprofit organization in an effort to tutor and provide help with schoolwork for young children in her community.

Sanjana Velu is a rising sophomore at William Mason High School. She is very committed and driven, taking part in several honors and Advanced Placement courses this school year. She is also a part of her school’s selective Biomedical Sciences program.

Security Program Development Intern

NorthStar Academy, Class of 2023

Keenan Watt

Keenan is so excited to be a part of Leadership Initiatives and participate in their summer programs. Keenan loves meeting new people from across the world and learning about different cultures, so she is looking forward to doing so and learning more about leadership and the security industry.

Keenan plays both the piano and mandolin. She speaks English and Afrikaans (one of the native languages of South Africa) and is currently learning French. She is also an avid reader and likes to draw and paint, listen to a diverse range of music, watch movies, and drink coffee. In the future, Keenan would like to pursue a career in forensic psychology, criminal justice, politics, and security.

Keenan Watt is a rising senior at NorthStar Academy and was born and raised in South Africa. Keenan is also a part of her school’s newspaper and enjoys classes such as Forensic Science and Sociology.

Medical Program Development Intern

American Heritage School, Class of 2022

Lucy Whitney

She is currently helping us to plan for the next wave of student leaders who will be with us this summer to positively change the lives of others!

As a sophomore at American Heritage School in Plantation, Florida, Lucy maintains a schedule of rigorous coursework with a focus on pre-med. She also has a passion for visual arts and enjoys studying photography and drawing.

Lucy Whitney is a Medical Program Development Intern who enjoys working with the other interns and medical professionals supporting our Leadership Initiatives programs. She strives to provide all program participants with the resources they need to obtain the most out of their summer experience. Lucy has participated in two Leadership Initiatives Youth Development Programs; the Advanced Medical and Public Health Summit and the Advanced Medical Neuroscience Summit.