Our Team
Meet the dedicated individuals who make SpeakUp Scholars possible.
Executive Team
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Rishi Sikh
Founder & CEO
Rishi Sikh is the founder of SpeakUp Scholars, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing educational equity and empowering underserved students. Driven by a passion to give back to his community, Rishi established the organization to provide access to resources and opportunities that promote educational success for all.
Saina Dwivedi
Chief Operating Officer
Saina Dwivedi is a 10th grader at WHS who brings immense value to the India division with her sharp debating skills and natural charisma. Her ability to lead discussions, inspire peers, and articulate complex ideas makes her an invaluable asset to the team.
Sammy Rutten
Chief Creative Officer
Sammy Rutten is a talented and driven advocate with extensive experience in mock trial competitions, where he has developed a sharp legal mind and exceptional communication skills. His passion for justice and mentorship fuels his work with SpeakUp Scholars, where he empowers students to develop their voice and pursue their potential in the civics field.
Nawal Fatima
Chief Marketing Officer
Nawal Fatima brings a warm, kind-hearted presence to SpeakUp Scholars, making every student feel supported and encouraged. Along with her strong debate, public-speaking, and EMT skills, she empowers learners to express their ideas confidently while modeling calm leadership and compassion.
Oliver Krane
Chief Financial Officer
Oliver Krane is a sophomore at Westlake High School with a strong passion for mathematics. He is committed to helping students build confidence and understanding in math through tutoring and mentorship.
Trisha Shah
Lead of the India Division & Co-CCO
Trisha Shah, a dedicated member of the SpeakUp Scholars program, is known for her pragmatic approach and sharp analytical mindset. Proudly serving in the India Division, her amiable outreach constantly leads to impactful outcomes, with every mission she serves.
Volunteers
Isabella Xing Gonzalez
Volunteer Debate Coach
Isabella Xing Gonzalez is a sophomore at Oak Park High School with a passion for public speaking and advocacy. She has been involved in debate since 4th grade and is dedicated to giving back to her community through education and mentorship.
Thad Hankins
Daily Video Creator
Thad Hankins is a student-athlete and scholar in his sophomore year at Westlake High School in California. He is passionate about supporting underserved youth through free math tutoring and community service.
Maya Stabinksy
Volunteer Debate Coach
Maya Stabinsky is a sophomore at Nightingale Bamford School with a passion for debate, environmental advocacy, and public policy. Known for her thoughtfulness and kindhearted nature, she brings both empathy and insight to every conversation she takes on.
Jackson Cassar
Daily Video Creator
Jackson Cassar is a talented SpeakUp Scholars team member known for his strong math skills and ability to make even the toughest problems feel easy. His funny, upbeat personality brings energy to every session, helping students learn while having a great time.
Ramin Rayess
Volunteer Debate Coach
Ramin Rayess is a Debate Coach at SpeakUp Scholars, teaching students in Lebanon and helping them build confidence, critical thinking, and persuasive speaking skills. He also plays a key role in developing curriculum to ensure engaging, structured, and impactful debate lessons for students.
Eve Zhong
Volunteer Debate Coach
Eve Zhong is a Debate Instructor at SpeakUp Scholars, teaching students in China and empowering them with strong argumentation, public speaking, and critical thinking skills. She brings a global perspective to the program through engaging lessons that make debate accessible and impactful for students.
Lilia Fried
Outreach Volunteer
Lilia Fried is a member of the SpeakUp Scholars team who supports outreach initiatives, with a focus on planning and organizing fundraisers. Her work helps expand the program’s reach and sustain opportunities for students around the world.
Elena Tourian
Social Media
Elena Tourian is a Social Media Editor at SpeakUp Scholars, creating and editing daily videos that highlight the program’s activities and student achievements. Through engaging and dynamic content, she helps share the impact of SpeakUp Scholars with a broader audience.
Isabelle Robins-Faden
Tutor
Isabelle Robins-Faden is a Tutor at SpeakUp Scholars, working with elementary school students to build strong foundations in reading, writing, and communication. She helps young learners grow in confidence while developing essential academic skills.
Victor Brisan
Tutor
Victor Brisan is a Tutor at SpeakUp Scholars, working with high school students to strengthen their academic skills and critical thinking. Through supportive and engaging instruction, he helps students build confidence and succeed in their studies.
Jeremy Lundberg
Tutor
Jeremy Lundberg is a Tutor at SpeakUp Scholars, working with high school students to strengthen their academic skills and critical thinking. Through supportive and engaging instruction, he helps students build confidence and succeed in their studies.
Caldwell Shaw
Finance
Caldwell Shaw works with SpeakUp Scholars on Funding and Grants, helping secure resources that support and expand the organization’s programs. Through his efforts, he helps ensure that more students have access to opportunities in public speaking and education.
Gigi Keller
Outreach Volunteer
Gigi Keller supports Outreach at SpeakUp Scholars, helping connect with schools, partners, and communities to expand access to public speaking opportunities for students.