Our Team

Meet the dedicated individuals who make SpeakUp Scholars possible.

Executive Team

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.

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.

Victor Brisan

Volunteer Tutor

Victor Brisan is a highly gifted individual with exceptional skills in mathematics and speech and debate, known for his ability to solve complex problems and communicate effectively. He passionately supports young learners in Romania through his involvement through SpeakUp Scholars, empowering students to reach their full potential.

Trisha Shah

Outreach Volunteer

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.

Jeremy Lundberg

Volunteer Tutor

Jeremy Lundberg is a dedicated SpeakUp Scholars team member who specializes in chemistry and math, helping students break down challenging concepts with clarity and confidence. His patient teaching style and passion for STEM empower learners to build strong foundations and excel academically.

Gigi Keller

Outreach Volunteer

Gigi Keller is a passionate SpeakUp Scholars team member who specializes in Mock Trial and legal advocacy, guiding students to think critically and argue persuasively. Her strong courtroom skills and commitment to student growth help young advocates find their voice with confidence.

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.