Executive Staff
Steering the course for positive change, Womankind is guided by a passionate group of executive leaders.
Yasmeen Hamza
Chief Executive Officer
Yasmeen Hamza (she/her) became the CEO of Womankind in August 2020 after managing the organization's Community Programs division, which encompasses programs and direct services for survivors of gender-based violence. With a Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University, she has 18 years of experience in domestic violence intervention and prevention. Yasmeen joined Womankind in 2012, progressing from Assistant Director of Client Services to Director, before her promotion to CEO.
Alena
Chief Program Officer
Alena (she/her) is the Chief Program Officer at Womankind overseeing the Clients Services and Operations departments within the organization. She is a licensed Social Worker in New York and joined Womankind in 2011. Coming from a Pakistani immigrant family, she seeks to uplift and elevate immigrant voices, especially around gender-based violence. The focus of Alena's work is to combat societal norms that suppress people based on their gender identity. She fosters collaborative and community-based approaches to addressing gender-based violence in immigrant communities through collective action and participation.
Jennifer Munz
Chief Development Officer
Jennifer Munz (she/her) serves as Womankind's Chief Development Officer. With over 15 years of fundraising expertise, her tenure includes impactful roles at United Way of NYC, Right to Play, and USA for UNFPA. A mission-driven leader with a Graphic Design degree from George Mason University and an MS degree in Nonprofit Management from The New School, she is dedicated to mobilizing critical resources to uplifting women and youth and advancing the health, rights, and dignity of disadvantaged individuals.
Sasha-Ann Frazer
Director, Community Programs
Sasha-ann Frazer (she/her) is a Licensed Social Worker and the Director of Community Programs at Womankind. She has been working with Womankind for over 10 years, starting in their emergency residence as an On-Call Supporter and now overseeing services at their community sites. Sasha-ann also oversees Womankind's programming focused on children and youth. Sasha identifies as a Caribbean immigrant, black woman, survivor, and mother which all fuels her passion to support immigrant survivors of color.
Taykina Chowdhury Alam
Director, Emergency Intervention and Community Engagement
Taykina Chowdhury Alam (she/her) is the Director of Emergency Intervention and Community Engagement. Joining Womankind in 2018, Taykina managed one of the emergency residences for survivors of gender-based violence and has gone on to oversee the Residential Programs, as well as the 24/7 Helpline Program. As a Bangladeshi American, Taykina is dedicated to being in service for, and with, communities of color.
Annie
Director, Special Programs
Annie (she/her) is the Director of Special Programs at Womankind, bringing extensive experience in residential housing and social services. Her background includes supporting single adults, military veterans, and individuals navigating mental health and substance use challenges. Her work has spanned program leadership, housing and entitlement services, community partnerships, and coordination of supportive care. A lifelong New Yorker, Annie is committed to trauma-informed, compassionate service and helping survivors, women, children, and families move toward greater stability and independence.
Francine Jean
Director, Strategic Partnerships
Francine Jean (she/her) a Filipina-American and Maryland native, brings 20+ years of nonprofit expertise to Womankind. With a passion for serving immigrant families and youth, her work spans from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia and NYC. Her versatile skill set includes front-line work, development, communications, grant writing, and fostering donor relationships. In her early career, Francine supported APIDA youth and volunteered as a women's flag football and youth basketball coach. Off-duty, she enjoys sports, dancing, and quality time with her family in Brooklyn.
Lydia Khoo
Associate Director, Finance
Lydia Khoo (she/her), serves as the Associate Director of Finance at Womankind. Originally from Malaysia, Lydia joined the organization in 2015 as a volunteer. Over the years, she has transitioned from her initial role as a bookkeeper to her current position. In her capacity as Associate Director of Finance, Lydia oversees financial, grant reporting, payroll, cash management, and budget activities. With over 15 years of accounting and finance experience, Lydia is committed to driving improvements in Womankind’s accounting practices and reporting.
Kelly Teaford
Associate Director, Institutional Giving
Kelly Teaford (she/her) is the Associate Director of Institutional Giving at Womankind. With over a decade of experience spanning fundraising, theater, film, and nonprofit program management and personal experience as a secondary survivor of GBV, she brings a deeply committed and collaborative approach to her work. Kelly has worked with organizations including Poetic Theater Productions and Infinite Variety Productions, where she continues to develop documentary theater focused on women’s history. She is passionate about building compassionate spaces grounded in meaningful human connection.
Ayaka Matsushima
Manager, Brooklyn Community Office
Gabrielle Nguyen
Manager, Communications
Jennifer Le
Manager, Community Education and Outreach
Are Rayhan Karim
Manager, Helpline
Alisha Mohammed
Manager, Immigration Law
Maria Gonzaga
Manager, Operations
Farzahana Akhtar
Manager, Pathways to Empowerment
Miyoung Kim
Manager, Pathways to Healing
Mary Caparas
Manager, Project Free
Kaori Nagao
Manager, Queens Community Office
WuYu Cao
Manager, Residential Programs
Divya Desai
Manager, Residential Programs
Dhara Patel
Manager, Volunteer
Executive Staff
Steering the course for positive change, Womankind is guided by a passionate group of executive leaders.
Yasmeen Hamza
Chief Executive Officer
Yasmeen Hamza (she/her) became the CEO of Womankind in August 2020 after managing the organization's Community Programs division, which encompasses programs and direct services for survivors of gender-based violence. With a Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University, she has 18 years of experience in domestic violence intervention and prevention. Yasmeen joined Womankind in 2012, progressing from Assistant Director of Client Services to Director, before her promotion to CEO.
Alena
Chief Program Officer
Alena (she/her) is the Chief Program Officer at Womankind overseeing the Clients Services and Operations departments within the organization. She is a licensed Social Worker in New York and joined Womankind in 2011. Coming from a Pakistani immigrant family, she seeks to uplift and elevate immigrant voices, especially around gender-based violence. The focus of Alena's work is to combat societal norms that suppress people based on their gender identity. She fosters collaborative and community-based approaches to addressing gender-based violence in immigrant communities through collective action and participation.
Jennifer Munz
Chief Development Officer
Jennifer Munz (she/her) serves as Womankind's Chief Development Officer. With over 15 years of fundraising expertise, her tenure includes impactful roles at United Way of NYC, Right to Play, and USA for UNFPA. A mission-driven leader with a Graphic Design degree from George Mason University and an MS degree in Nonprofit Management from The New School, she is dedicated to mobilizing critical resources to uplifting women and youth and advancing the health, rights, and dignity of disadvantaged individuals.
Sasha-Ann Frazer
Director, Community Programs
Sasha-ann Frazer (she/her) is a Licensed Social Worker and the Director of Community Programs at Womankind. She has been working with Womankind for over 10 years, starting in their emergency residence as an On-Call Supporter and now overseeing services at their community sites. Sasha-ann also oversees Womankind's programming focused on children and youth. Sasha identifies as a Caribbean immigrant, black woman, survivor, and mother which all fuels her passion to support immigrant survivors of color.
Taykina Chowdhury Alam
Director, Emergency Intervention and Community Engagement
Taykina Chowdhury Alam (she/her) is the Director of Emergency Intervention and Community Engagement. Joining Womankind in 2018, Taykina managed one of the emergency residences for survivors of gender-based violence and has gone on to oversee the Residential Programs, as well as the 24/7 Helpline Program. As a Bangladeshi American, Taykina is dedicated to being in service for, and with, communities of color.
Annie
Director, Special Programs
Annie (she/her) is the Director of Special Programs at Womankind, bringing extensive experience in residential housing and social services. Her background includes supporting single adults, military veterans, and individuals navigating mental health and substance use challenges. Her work has spanned program leadership, housing and entitlement services, community partnerships, and coordination of supportive care. A lifelong New Yorker, Annie is committed to trauma-informed, compassionate service and helping survivors, women, children, and families move toward greater stability and independence.
Francine Jean
Director, Strategic Partnerships
Francine Jean (she/her) a Filipina-American and Maryland native, brings 20+ years of nonprofit expertise to Womankind. With a passion for serving immigrant families and youth, her work spans from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia and NYC. Her versatile skill set includes front-line work, development, communications, grant writing, and fostering donor relationships. In her early career, Francine supported APIDA youth and volunteered as a women's flag football and youth basketball coach. Off-duty, she enjoys sports, dancing, and quality time with her family in Brooklyn.
Lydia Khoo
Associate Director, Finance
Lydia Khoo (she/her), serves as the Associate Director of Finance at Womankind. Originally from Malaysia, Lydia joined the organization in 2015 as a volunteer. Over the years, she has transitioned from her initial role as a bookkeeper to her current position. In her capacity as Associate Director of Finance, Lydia oversees financial, grant reporting, payroll, cash management, and budget activities. With over 15 years of accounting and finance experience, Lydia is committed to driving improvements in Womankind’s accounting practices and reporting.
Kelly Teaford
Associate Director, Institutional Giving
Kelly Teaford (she/her) is the Associate Director of Institutional Giving at Womankind. With over a decade of experience spanning fundraising, theater, film, and nonprofit program management and personal experience as a secondary survivor of GBV, she brings a deeply committed and collaborative approach to her work. Kelly has worked with organizations including Poetic Theater Productions and Infinite Variety Productions, where she continues to develop documentary theater focused on women’s history. She is passionate about building compassionate spaces grounded in meaningful human connection.
Ayaka Matsushima
Manager, Brooklyn Community Office
Gabrielle Nguyen
Manager, Communications
Jennifer Le
Manager, Community Education and Outreach
Are Rayhan Karim
Manager, Helpline
Alisha Mohammed
Manager, Immigration Law
Maria Gonzaga
Manager, Operations
Farzahana Akhtar
Manager, Pathways to Empowerment
Miyoung Kim
Manager, Pathways to Healing
Mary Caparas
Manager, Project Free
Kaori Nagao
Manager, Queens Community Office
WuYu Cao
Manager, Residential Programs
Divya Desai
Manager, Residential Programs
Dhara Patel
Manager, Volunteer
Board of Directors
Womankind’s mission is overseen by a dedicated board of directors who provide strategic guidance and leadership.
Madhavi Batliboi
Co-Chair
Director & AGC, Global Head of Music Legal, Meta
Merv Garretson
Co-Chair
Group Creative Director, Hearst
Merv Garretson is the Group Creative Director at Hearst Autos, overseeing creative strategies and executions for automotive partners across 28 Hearst brands, including ELLE, Harper’s BAZAAR, Esquire, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Popular Mechanics, Road & Track, Car and Driver, and more. Since joining Womankind's Board in 2019, he has brought a wealth of creative expertise, innovative perspectives, and strategic insights to his leadership role, supporting the organization's mission and vital work on behalf of survivors of gender-based violence. Merv holds a Master's in Design Management from Pratt Institute, where he continues to be involved as a Visiting Professor.
Flora Feng
Secretary
Senior Legal Director, Global Intellectual Property, PepsiCo
Flora Feng brings extensive legal expertise as the Senior Legal Director of Global Intellectual Property at PepsiCo to her Board role at Womankind. In her capacity, she serves as legal counsel to Global R&D for Beverages and Life Sciences, overseeing the R&D Contracts team and providing intellectual property counsel for M&A activities. Flora's focus on navigating legal complexities within research and development ensures compliance with contractual agreements and protects intellectual property rights. Since joining the Board in 2020, her strategic insights and guidance on legal matters strengthen Womankind's governance, advancing our mission to provide pathways to healing for survivors of gender-based violence. Flora holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center.
Akita Somani
Treasurer
Head of Customer Success, Digital Platforms, U.S. Bank
Akita Somani has over two decades of global experience in financial services at U.S. Bank, Mastercard, Visa, and Citi, driving growth and transformation across product, strategy, and commercialization. Having lived and worked across five continents and 30 markets, she brings deep cross-cultural insight and drives constructive impact for the community, including as a Board Member at Womankind since 2024. Akita was recognized by Innovate Finance on their 2024 Women in FinTech Powerlist and by NYC Fintech Women in the Product Builders category of their 2023 Inspiring FinTech Females list. She holds an MBA from XLRI-Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur and Bachelor of Science from Delhi University.
Deborah Chan
Board Member
Attorney, Law Office of Deborah Chan, PC
Deborah Chan brings her longstanding legal expertise to her role as a Womankind Board Member. As an attorney at the Law Office of Deborah Chan, PC, her experience in legal practice enriches the board's discussions and decision-making processes, ensuring that Womenkind operates within legal frameworks while effectively supporting survivors of gender-based violence. She holds a J.D. from the CUNY School of Law and a B.B.A from Bernard M. Baruch College of CUNY.
Sujata Dayal
Board Member
Senior Advisor, Arziyan LLC
Larry Lee
Board Member
For 11 years, Larry Lee was the Executive Director of Womankind. During his tenure, he developed an award-winning practice model that supports survivors on their pathway to healing. Larry also founded and led the nation’s first Mandarin and English dual-language, dual-culture public school. In addition, he created and led three public interest organizations, including the Asian Health and Social Services Council. Larry has been honored by NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo, NYC Mayors Bill de Blasio, Michael Bloomberg, and Ed Koch, the National Association of Social Workers, WCBS-TV, and CUNY’s Hunter College. At the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), Larry serves as a board member and board president emeritus. He holds both an MSW and an MA in psychology from CUNY’s Hunter College. He is licensed by NYS and holds a diplomate in clinical social work.
Vidula Pant
Board Member
Vidula is a mission‑driven leader with more than a decade of experience advancing equity and economic empowerment through the nonprofit sector. She spent five years at Sakhi for South Asian Survivors shaping programs for survivors of gender‑based violence and previously helped build Equal Community Foundation in Pune, India, directing strategy and finance. Vidula began her career in Fixed Income at Credit Suisse and holds an MBA in Finance and an MS in Computer Science from NYU, and a BE from the University of Mumbai.
Jane Tran
Board Member
Co-Founder and COO, Sixfold
Jane Tran is a founder and operator, building companies that free humans to do uniquely human work. She is co-founder and COO of Sixfold, the first AI exclusively built for insurance underwriters. Prior to Sixfold, she was a founding member and COO of Unqork, the $2B enterprise no-code company. She is an investor at The Everywhere Ventures, an early stage VC focused on supporting and investing in the next generation of female founders. She is also an active mentor for Techstars and Lair East Labs. As Board Co-Chair, Jane supports Womankind to ensure survivors of gender-based violence receive the support they need with empathy, care and hope.
Vanessa Yen
Board Member
Partner, Mintz Levin
Vanessa Yen is a partner at Mintz Levin. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Women Leaders of New York and Top Women Attorneys in NY, Vanessa has over 20 years of work experience spanning her service as a strategic consultant for Fortune 500/1000 companies to being a litigator and law partner in AmLaw 100 firms. Vanessa brings insight to the board with a focus on legal, strategy, and management. She also serves as Vice President of the Cornell Law School Alumni Executive Board. Vanessa served as partner co-Chair of her firm’s Asian American affinity group and is committed to being an active member the Asian American community. Vanessa holds an undergraduate degree from MIT in the sciences and a law degree from Cornell Law School.
Josephine Young
Board Member
Partner, Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP
Josephine Young is a partner at Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP with over a decade’s experience trying high-stakes biotechnology and pharmaceutical patent cases. She is known for her creativity and depth of scientific and technological expertise. Josie is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and, earlier in her career, was a patent examiner with the USPTO, examining patents in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and chemical arts. Before earning her J.D., she also worked as a patent agent, filing and prosecuting U.S. and foreign patents and assisting in interference and opposition proceedings. Josie earned her B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Chicago, completed her coursework for a Ph.D. in chemistry, and then went to law school, earning a J.D. from George Washington University while working full time.
Board of Directors
Womankind’s mission is overseen by a dedicated board of directors who provide strategic guidance and leadership.
Madhavi Batliboi
Co-Chair
Director & AGC, Global Head of Music Legal, Meta
Merv Garretson
Co-Chair
Group Creative Director, Hearst
Merv Garretson is the Group Creative Director at Hearst Autos, overseeing creative strategies and executions for automotive partners across 28 Hearst brands, including ELLE, Harper’s BAZAAR, Esquire, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Popular Mechanics, Road & Track, Car and Driver, and more. Since joining Womankind's Board in 2019, he has brought a wealth of creative expertise, innovative perspectives, and strategic insights to his leadership role, supporting the organization's mission and vital work on behalf of survivors of gender-based violence. Merv holds a Master's in Design Management from Pratt Institute, where he continues to be involved as a Visiting Professor.
Flora Feng
Secretary
Senior Legal Director, Global Intellectual Property, PepsiCo
Flora Feng brings extensive legal expertise as the Senior Legal Director of Global Intellectual Property at PepsiCo to her Board role at Womankind. In her capacity, she serves as legal counsel to Global R&D for Beverages and Life Sciences, overseeing the R&D Contracts team and providing intellectual property counsel for M&A activities. Flora's focus on navigating legal complexities within research and development ensures compliance with contractual agreements and protects intellectual property rights. Since joining the Board in 2020, her strategic insights and guidance on legal matters strengthen Womankind's governance, advancing our mission to provide pathways to healing for survivors of gender-based violence. Flora holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center.
Akita Somani
Treasurer
Head of Customer Success, Digital Platforms, U.S. Bank
Akita Somani has over two decades of global experience in financial services at U.S. Bank, Mastercard, Visa, and Citi, driving growth and transformation across product, strategy, and commercialization. Having lived and worked across five continents and 30 markets, she brings deep cross-cultural insight and drives constructive impact for the community, including as a Board Member at Womankind since 2024. Akita was recognized by Innovate Finance on their 2024 Women in FinTech Powerlist and by NYC Fintech Women in the Product Builders category of their 2023 Inspiring FinTech Females list. She holds an MBA from XLRI-Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur and Bachelor of Science from Delhi University.
Deborah Chan
Board Member
Attorney, Law Office of Deborah Chan, PC
Deborah Chan brings her longstanding legal expertise to her role as a Womankind Board Member. As an attorney at the Law Office of Deborah Chan, PC, her experience in legal practice enriches the board's discussions and decision-making processes, ensuring that Womenkind operates within legal frameworks while effectively supporting survivors of gender-based violence. She holds a J.D. from the CUNY School of Law and a B.B.A from Bernard M. Baruch College of CUNY.
Sujata Dayal
Board Member
Senior Advisor, Arziyan LLC
Larry Lee
Board Member
For 11 years, Larry Lee was the Executive Director of Womankind. During his tenure, he developed an award-winning practice model that supports survivors on their pathway to healing. Larry also founded and led the nation’s first Mandarin and English dual-language, dual-culture public school. In addition, he created and led three public interest organizations, including the Asian Health and Social Services Council. Larry has been honored by NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo, NYC Mayors Bill de Blasio, Michael Bloomberg, and Ed Koch, the National Association of Social Workers, WCBS-TV, and CUNY’s Hunter College. At the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), Larry serves as a board member and board president emeritus. He holds both an MSW and an MA in psychology from CUNY’s Hunter College. He is licensed by NYS and holds a diplomate in clinical social work.
Vidula Pant
Board Member
Vidula is a mission‑driven leader with more than a decade of experience advancing equity and economic empowerment through the nonprofit sector. She spent five years at Sakhi for South Asian Survivors shaping programs for survivors of gender‑based violence and previously helped build Equal Community Foundation in Pune, India, directing strategy and finance. Vidula began her career in Fixed Income at Credit Suisse and holds an MBA in Finance and an MS in Computer Science from NYU, and a BE from the University of Mumbai.
Jane Tran
Board Member
Co-Founder and COO, Sixfold
Jane Tran is a founder and operator, building companies that free humans to do uniquely human work. She is co-founder and COO of Sixfold, the first AI exclusively built for insurance underwriters. Prior to Sixfold, she was a founding member and COO of Unqork, the $2B enterprise no-code company. She is an investor at The Everywhere Ventures, an early stage VC focused on supporting and investing in the next generation of female founders. She is also an active mentor for Techstars and Lair East Labs. As Board Co-Chair, Jane supports Womankind to ensure survivors of gender-based violence receive the support they need with empathy, care and hope.
Vanessa Yen
Board Member
Partner, Mintz Levin
Vanessa Yen is a partner at Mintz Levin. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Women Leaders of New York and Top Women Attorneys in NY, Vanessa has over 20 years of work experience spanning her service as a strategic consultant for Fortune 500/1000 companies to being a litigator and law partner in AmLaw 100 firms. Vanessa brings insight to the board with a focus on legal, strategy, and management. She also serves as Vice President of the Cornell Law School Alumni Executive Board. Vanessa served as partner co-Chair of her firm’s Asian American affinity group and is committed to being an active member the Asian American community. Vanessa holds an undergraduate degree from MIT in the sciences and a law degree from Cornell Law School.
Josephine Young
Board Member
Partner, Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP
Josephine Young is a partner at Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP with over a decade’s experience trying high-stakes biotechnology and pharmaceutical patent cases. She is known for her creativity and depth of scientific and technological expertise. Josie is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and, earlier in her career, was a patent examiner with the USPTO, examining patents in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and chemical arts. Before earning her J.D., she also worked as a patent agent, filing and prosecuting U.S. and foreign patents and assisting in interference and opposition proceedings. Josie earned her B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Chicago, completed her coursework for a Ph.D. in chemistry, and then went to law school, earning a J.D. from George Washington University while working full time.
Young Professionals Board
Shaping the future of our organization, Womankind’s Young Professionals Board brings fresh perspectives and ideas.
Pamela Rose
Co-Chair
Language Teacher and Educator
Christian Celeste Tate
Co-Chair
Manager, The Bridgespan Group
Christian Celeste Tate is a manager at The Bridgespan Group, where he works with community-based organizations, movement organizers, nonprofits, and philanthropists to accelerate social impact in areas such as equitable wealth-building and economic mobility, parole and probation reform, and housing access. In this role, Christian co-authored "Closing the Racial Wealth Gap: Philanthropy's Role in Driving Shared Prosperity" (Bridgespan.org, 2024) and hosted season three of the Dreaming in Color podcast. Christian joined Womankind as a helpline volunteer in 2018 and is currently co-chair of the Young Professionals Board.
Pranita Balusu
YPB Member
Development Manager,
Changing the Conversation
Pranita Balusu is currently the Development Manager at Changing the Conversation, a political nonprofit that uses deep canvassing to engage voters in underserved communities. After starting out in management consulting, Pranita moved to the nonprofit sector to have a greater social impact through her career and is now experienced in nonprofit development, program management, and policy analysis. Pranita holds a BS in Engineering from the University of Michigan and an MS in Political Science from Eastern Illinois University; as a published academic, she has focused her research on gender equity.
Carly Cassidy
YPB Member
Subscription Finance Asset Management, Morgan Stanley
Carly Cassidy joined the Young Professionals Board of Womankind in 2023 to be an advocate for gender-based violence survivors. While working abroad in 2018, she survived and reported her own sexual assault. Starting over in the US, Cassidy benefitted from the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center (DARCC) and knows firsthand the essential nature of free and available resources for survivors of gender-based violence. Through her work with Womankind, she aspires to return the same support she received to help survivors along their healing journeys. Outside of her day job in banking, she is a visual artist and writer, having written two collections of poetry and hosting her own bi-weekly Podcast. Cassidy holds degrees in Finance and Spanish.
Irene Chung
YPB Member
Senior Director, Strategy & Finance, Habitat Health
Irene Chung is a Senior Director at Habitat Health, a startup delivering integrated health and social care to older adults who wish to remain living independently in their homes and communities. Previously, she worked at Cityblock Health where she launched new markets, and also at the Boston Consulting Group, where she focused on global health strategy. Chung joined the Young Professionals Board of Womankind in 2024. She earned her BA in Political Science from Yale University.
Raviraj Gulrajani
YPB Member
Engineering Manager, Meta
Raviraj Gulrajani has experience as an engineer and is currently an Engineering Manager at Meta. Previously, he has worked as Vice President of Engineering and Director of Engineering at major technology and online media firms including Google, DoubleClick, Dailymotion, and Tremor Video. Raviraj joined the Young Professional Board of Womankind in 2014 and has since held various roles on the board. With a Bachelor of Engineering degree (BE) from Thadomal Shahani Engineering College in Mumbai, India, he is also an avid rock climber and painter.
Hargun Kalsi
YPB Member
Head of Global Technology Applied Research Strategy and Partnerships, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
As Head of Strategy and Partnerships for JPMorgan Chase’s Global Technology Applied Research Center, Hargun Kalsi embodies a seasoned leadership approach within Financial Services and Technology Adoption spaces. Complementing her professional endeavors, she extends her impact through mentorship, serving on the Young Professionals Board for Womankind, as well as actively contributing to the Punjabi Chamber of Commerce’s speaker events geared towards positively impacting younger generations. In addition, Kalsi pursues competitive bodybuilding, leveraging her platform to inspire through coaching, sponsorships, and a dedicated podcast. She holds a BA in Finance & Information Systems from the University of Maryland.
Bijan Khaghani
YPB Member
Paralegal, Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP
Bijan Khaghani is a paralegal at Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP, where he works in patent litigation and supports the firm’s growing pro bono practice, which focuses on survivors of gender-based violence, immigrant families, and individuals facing housing and economic insecurity. He is deeply committed to advancing gender justice and expanding access to legal resources for those navigating complex legal systems. Bijan is a graduate of Kenyon College and is passionate about using law, advocacy, and community engagement to support survivors and create long-term, systemic change.
Diane Kim
YPB Member
Vice President, Global HR Operations Lead, Ares Management
Diane Kim is a Vice President and Global HR Operations Lead at Ares Management, with prior experience at Hudson River Trading and Morgan Stanley. She began volunteering with Womankind, inspired by its mission and impact, and joined the Young Professionals Board in 2025. Diane holds a dual B.A. in Communication & Media Studies and Political Science from the University of Michigan.
Hoshahnia Kumaran
YPB Member
Legislative Director, New York State Assembly
Hoshahnia Kumaran is a Legislative Director in the New York State Assembly, where she advances policy at the intersection of public safety, consumer protection, and equity. Her work is grounded in a commitment to making government more responsive to the everyday realities of the communities she serves. Hoshahnia’s connection to Womankind began in 2018, when she actively sought out ways to support survivors of gender-based violence. What started as a desire to give back quickly became a sustained commitment, and she has been an advocate for the organization’s mission ever since, working to uplift survivors and expand access to critical resources.
Erica Lim
YPB Member
Senior Program Officer, Arcus Foundation
Erica Lim is a Senior Program Officer at the Arcus Foundation where she supports the international portfolio of their social justice program and manages grantmaking to advance the rights and equity of LGBTQI communities. She is experienced working with philanthropies, nonprofit organizations, program coordination and implementation, as well as political organizing, and case management. In addition, she has a strong background in community and social services concentrating in organizing, policy/planning and administration. Lim has an MSW in Community Organizing Policy/Planning & Administration from the University of California, and a BA in Sociology, African & African American Studies, Human Development from the University of California, Davis.
Rachel McGlade
YPB Member
Psychotherapist and VP, Growth at Imre
Rachel McGlade is a therapist and healthcare communications strategist with experience shaping impactful brands across a range of healthcare companies. After beginning her career in communications, Rachel pursued clinical social work to deepen her ability to support individuals more directly and now integrates both disciplines to drive meaningful, human-centered impact. As a trained therapist (LMSW), she brings a uniquely empathetic lens to her work and specializes in supporting young women in high-performing industries. Rachel holds a B.S. from Boston University and an MSW from Fordham University. Through her work and first-hand experience, she is deeply aligned with Womankind's mission to advance the wellbeing and empowerment of women and girls.
Jyothi Nair
YPB Member
Director of Individual and Corporate Giving, OneGoal
Jyothi Nair is currently the Director of Individual and Corporate Giving at OneGoal, a nationwide organization that supports low-income students through enhanced postsecondary advising to help them achieve their dreams after high school graduation. The majority of her career has been in the nonprofit sector, where she has worked to raise funds and increase access to services for underresourced communities in New York City. Jyothi joined the Womankind Young Professionals Board in 2025 due to a deep passion for, and personal connection to, its mission and programming. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Boston University.
Varahi Trivedi
YPB Member
Engagement Manager, Aetion
Varahi Trivedi is an Engagement Manager at Aetion, a healthcare analytics company that delivers real-world evidence to biopharma companies, payers, and regulatory bodies. Joining the Young Professionals Board of Womankind in 2022, Trivedi brings a passion for community programming that champions causes impacting women in areas of education, violence prevention, and women in leadership. With a Master of Public Health from Dartmouth College and a BS in Biology & Women’s Studies from The College of New Jersey, Trivedi combines her background in healthcare and passion for social causes to advance the well-being of women in public health matters.
Yvette Zhang
YPB Member
Director, AlixPartners
Yvette Zhang is an Advanced-Mobility Segment Co-Leader and Director in the Automotive and Industrial Practice at AlixPartners, a global business consulting and services firm. She has deep experience transforming companies of all scales via strategy development, supply chain optimization, and operational efficiency improvement. She has worked as a consultant, project manager, and analyst at multiple organizations including Cummins, Accenture, and Arconic. In addition, between 2021 and 2024 Zhang led AlixPartners’ employee resource group ALIGN (Asian Leadership Insight and Growth Network), and currently sits on its advisory council. She joined the Womankind’s Young Professionals Board in 2023 and has facilitated ALIGN’s sponsorship of the Womankind Gala. She has an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, and a BA in International Economics & Trade from Fudan University in Shanghai, China.
Jasmine Zheng
YPB Member
Operations Associate, Canoe
Jasmine Zheng is an Operations Associate at Canoe, a AI/ML financial technology automating data management for investment processes in the alternative investments industry. Prior to Canoe, she has worked in various roles over the years in finance and technology. Jasmine is also experienced in working with nonprofits and grassroots organizations in areas such as grant making, fundraising, event planning and beyond. She joined the Young Professionals Board at Womankind in 2023 to support and contribute to the organization’s mission. Jasmine has earned a BA in Economics from New York University.
Young Professionals Board
Shaping the future of our organization, Womankind’s Young Professionals Board brings fresh perspectives and ideas.
Pamela Rose
Co-Chair
Language Teacher and Educator
Christian Celeste Tate
Co-Chair
Manager, The Bridgespan Group
Christian Celeste Tate is a manager at The Bridgespan Group, where he works with community-based organizations, movement organizers, nonprofits, and philanthropists to accelerate social impact in areas such as equitable wealth-building and economic mobility, parole and probation reform, and housing access. In this role, Christian co-authored "Closing the Racial Wealth Gap: Philanthropy's Role in Driving Shared Prosperity" (Bridgespan.org, 2024) and hosted season three of the Dreaming in Color podcast. Christian joined Womankind as a helpline volunteer in 2018 and is currently co-chair of the Young Professionals Board.
Pranita Balusu
YPB Member
Development Manager, Changing the Conversation
Pranita Balusu is currently the Development Manager at Changing the Conversation, a political nonprofit that uses deep canvassing to engage voters in underserved communities. After starting out in management consulting, Pranita moved to the nonprofit sector to have a greater social impact through her career and is now experienced in nonprofit development, program management, and policy analysis. Pranita holds a BS in Engineering from the University of Michigan and an MS in Political Science from Eastern Illinois University; as a published academic, she has focused her research on gender equity.
Carly Cassidy
YPB Member
Subscription Finance Asset Management, Morgan Stanley
Carly Cassidy joined the Young Professionals Board of Womankind in 2023 to be an advocate for gender-based violence survivors. While working abroad in 2018, she survived and reported her own sexual assault. Starting over in the US, Cassidy benefitted from the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center (DARCC) and knows firsthand the essential nature of free and available resources for survivors of gender-based violence. Through her work with Womankind, she aspires to return the same support she received to help survivors along their healing journeys. Outside of her day job in banking, she is a visual artist and writer, having written two collections of poetry and hosting her own bi-weekly Podcast. Cassidy holds degrees in Finance and Spanish.
Irene Chung
YPB Member
Senior Director, Strategy & Finance, Habitat Health
Irene Chung is a Senior Director at Habitat Health, a startup delivering integrated health and social care to older adults who wish to remain living independently in their homes and communities. Previously, she worked at Cityblock Health where she launched new markets, and also at the Boston Consulting Group, where she focused on global health strategy. Chung joined the Young Professionals Board of Womankind in 2024. She earned her BA in Political Science from Yale University.
Raviraj Gulrajani
YPB Member
Engineering Manager, Meta
Raviraj Gulrajani has experience as an engineer and is currently an Engineering Manager at Meta. Previously, he has worked as Vice President of Engineering and Director of Engineering at major technology and online media firms including Google, DoubleClick, Dailymotion, and Tremor Video. Raviraj joined the Young Professional Board of Womankind in 2014 and has since held various roles on the board. With a Bachelor of Engineering degree (BE) from Thadomal Shahani Engineering College in Mumbai, India, he is also an avid rock climber and painter.
Hargun Kalsi
YPB Member
Head of Global Technology Applied Research Strategy and Partnerships, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
As Head of Strategy and Partnerships for JPMorgan Chase’s Global Technology Applied Research Center, Hargun Kalsi embodies a seasoned leadership approach within Financial Services and Technology Adoption spaces. Complementing her professional endeavors, she extends her impact through mentorship, serving on the Young Professionals Board for Womankind, as well as actively contributing to the Punjabi Chamber of Commerce’s speaker events geared towards positively impacting younger generations. In addition, Kalsi pursues competitive bodybuilding, leveraging her platform to inspire through coaching, sponsorships, and a dedicated podcast. She holds a BA in Finance & Information Systems from the University of Maryland.
Bijan Khaghani
YPB Member
Paralegal, Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP
Bijan Khaghani is a paralegal at Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP, where he works in patent litigation and supports the firm’s growing pro bono practice, which focuses on survivors of gender-based violence, immigrant families, and individuals facing housing and economic insecurity. He is deeply committed to advancing gender justice and expanding access to legal resources for those navigating complex legal systems. Bijan is a graduate of Kenyon College and is passionate about using law, advocacy, and community engagement to support survivors and create long-term, systemic change.
Diane Kim
YPB Member
Vice President, Global HR Operations Lead, Ares Management
Diane Kim is a Vice President and Global HR Operations Lead at Ares Management, with prior experience at Hudson River Trading and Morgan Stanley. She began volunteering with Womankind, inspired by its mission and impact, and joined the Young Professionals Board in 2025. Diane holds a dual B.A. in Communication & Media Studies and Political Science from the University of Michigan.
Hoshahnia Kumaran
YPB Member
Legislative Director, New York State Assembly
Hoshahnia Kumaran is a Legislative Director in the New York State Assembly, where she advances policy at the intersection of public safety, consumer protection, and equity. Her work is grounded in a commitment to making government more responsive to the everyday realities of the communities she serves. Hoshahnia’s connection to Womankind began in 2018, when she actively sought out ways to support survivors of gender-based violence. What started as a desire to give back quickly became a sustained commitment, and she has been an advocate for the organization’s mission ever since, working to uplift survivors and expand access to critical resources.
Erica Lim
YPB Member
Senior Program Officer, Arcus Foundation
Erica Lim is a Senior Program Officer at the Arcus Foundation where she supports the international portfolio of their social justice program and manages grantmaking to advance the rights and equity of LGBTQI communities. She is experienced working with philanthropies, nonprofit organizations, program coordination and implementation, as well as political organizing, and case management. In addition, she has a strong background in community and social services concentrating in organizing, policy/planning and administration. Lim has an MSW in Community Organizing Policy/Planning & Administration from the University of California, and a BA in Sociology, African & African American Studies, Human Development from the University of California, Davis.
Rachel McGlade
YPB Member
Psychotherapist and VP, Growth at Imre
Rachel McGlade is a therapist and healthcare communications strategist with experience shaping impactful brands across a range of healthcare companies. After beginning her career in communications, Rachel pursued clinical social work to deepen her ability to support individuals more directly and now integrates both disciplines to drive meaningful, human-centered impact. As a trained therapist (LMSW), she brings a uniquely empathetic lens to her work and specializes in supporting young women in high-performing industries. Rachel holds a B.S. from Boston University and an MSW from Fordham University. Through her work and first-hand experience, she is deeply aligned with Womankind's mission to advance the wellbeing and empowerment of women and girls.
Jyothi Nair
YPB Member
Director of Individual and Corporate Giving, OneGoal
Jyothi Nair is currently the Director of Individual and Corporate Giving at OneGoal, a nationwide organization that supports low-income students through enhanced postsecondary advising to help them achieve their dreams after high school graduation. The majority of her career has been in the nonprofit sector, where she has worked to raise funds and increase access to services for underresourced communities in New York City. Jyothi joined the Womankind Young Professionals Board in 2025 due to a deep passion for, and personal connection to, its mission and programming. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Boston University.
Varahi Trivedi
YPB Member
Engagement Manager, Aetion
Varahi Trivedi is an Engagement Manager at Aetion, a healthcare analytics company that delivers real-world evidence to biopharma companies, payers, and regulatory bodies. Joining the Young Professionals Board of Womankind in 2022, Trivedi brings a passion for community programming that champions causes impacting women in areas of education, violence prevention, and women in leadership. With a Master of Public Health from Dartmouth College and a BS in Biology & Women’s Studies from The College of New Jersey, Trivedi combines her background in healthcare and passion for social causes to advance the well-being of women in public health matters.
Yvette Zhang
YPB Member
Director, AlixPartners
Yvette Zhang is an Advanced-Mobility Segment Co-Leader and Director in the Automotive and Industrial Practice at AlixPartners, a global business consulting and services firm. She has deep experience transforming companies of all scales via strategy development, supply chain optimization, and operational efficiency improvement. She has worked as a consultant, project manager, and analyst at multiple organizations including Cummins, Accenture, and Arconic. In addition, between 2021 and 2024 Zhang led AlixPartners’ employee resource group ALIGN (Asian Leadership Insight and Growth Network), and currently sits on its advisory council. She joined the Womankind’s Young Professionals Board in 2023 and has facilitated ALIGN’s sponsorship of the Womankind Gala. She has an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, and a BA in International Economics & Trade from Fudan University in Shanghai, China.
Jasmine Zheng
YPB Member
Operations Associate, Canoe
Jasmine Zheng is an Operations Associate at Canoe, a AI/ML financial technology automating data management for investment processes in the alternative investments industry. Prior to Canoe, she has worked in various roles over the years in finance and technology. Jasmine is also experienced in working with nonprofits and grassroots organizations in areas such as grant making, fundraising, event planning and beyond. She joined the Young Professionals Board at Womankind in 2023 to support and contribute to the organization’s mission. Jasmine has earned a BA in Economics from New York University.
Emeritus Board of Directors
Womankind’s Emeritus Board serves as a bridge between our past and future, offering continued counsel from seasoned leaders.
Mika Tsugiyama Bouvard
Emeritus Board Member
Former Case Writer, Columbia University, Columbia Business School
Zal Dabhoiwala
Emeritus Board Member
IT Auditor, WPP
Susanna Hong
Emeritus Board Member
Managing Partner, Broadleaf Capital Advisor
Narges Kakalia
Emeritus Board Member
Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Mintz
Ankur Keswani
Emeritus Board Member
Senior Managing Director, Serengeti Asset Management
Hoon-Jung Kim
Emeritus Board Member
Corporate Counsel, Google Inc.
Janet Akie Masamitsu
Emeritus Board Member
Silversmith/Owner, Janet Sterling Silver Design
Nina Pineda
Emeritus Board Member
Consumer Reporter, WABC-TV
Cassidy Sehgal-Kolbet
Emeritus Board Member
Vice President, Digital and Advertising Law, L'Oreal USA
Niketa Sheth
Emeritus Board Member
Kyoko Waseda-Hida
Emeritus Board Member
Executive Director, Goldman Sachs
Emeritus Board of Directors
Womankind’s Emeritus Board serves as a bridge between our past and future, offering continued counsel from seasoned leaders.
Mika Tsugiyama Bouvard
Emeritus Board Member
Former Case Writer, Columbia University, Columbia Business School
Zal Dabhoiwala
Emeritus Board Member
IT Auditor, WPP
Susanna Hong
Emeritus Board Member
Managing Partner, Broadleaf Capital Advisor
Narges Kakalia
Emeritus Board Member
Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Mintz
Ankur Keswani
Emeritus Board Member
Senior Managing Director, Serengeti Asset Management
Hoon-Jung Kim
Emeritus Board Member
Corporate Counsel, Google Inc.
Janet Akie Masamitsu
Emeritus Board Member
Silversmith/Owner, Janet Sterling Silver Design
Nina Pineda
Emeritus Board Member
Consumer Reporter, WABC-TV
Cassidy Sehgal-Kolbet
Emeritus Board Member
Vice President, Digital and Advertising Law, L'Oreal USA
Niketa Sheth
Emeritus Board Member
Kyoko Waseda-Hida
Emeritus Board Member
Executive Director, Goldman Sachs
Honorary Board of Directors
Lending their esteemed experience, Womankind’s Honorary Board of Directors provides valuable guidance and support.
Connie Chung
Honorary Board Member
Television Journalist
Victoria W. Hsu
Honorary Board Member
Director, J.T. Tai & Co. Foundation
Honorary Board of Directors
Lending their esteemed experience, Womankind’s Honorary Board of Directors provides valuable guidance and support.
Connie Chung
Honorary Board Member
Television Journalist
Victoria W. Hsu
Honorary Board Member
Director, J.T. Tai & Co. Foundation
Join Womankind to end gender-based violence. We’re hiring.
Join Womankind to end gender-based violence. We're hiring.
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Stay Connected with Womankind!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Womankind (formerly New York Asian Women's Center), 42 Broadway, Suite 1836, New York, NY, 10004, https://www.iamwomankind.org. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
