We are a group of diverse professionals who volunteered our time to assist those that needed a little extra
support entering or advancing in the workplace. We are passionate about helping others.
We know that barriers to employment disproportionately affect some communities more than others.
This was our way of trying to balance the scales.
Scroll down and get to know us a bit more!
Leads
Sukh Chugh
Location: California
Role: Chief Dreamer
Why Rise Up: Not everyone has had the same opportunities in life. Helping someone advance in their life is a gift we actually give ourselves. In the words of Robert Ingersoll: “We rise when we lift others”.
Kimberly Capehart
Location: Maryland
Role: Student Affairs and Metrics Lead
Why Rise Up? Help motivated people have a leg up on the job market, especially under-resourced populations.
Coaches
Desiree Castillo
Location: California
Role: Advanced Curriculum Coordinator
Why Rise Up?: I joined the Rise Up Project because I recently went through the process of getting my first job here in the United States. Having resources and people willing to support me was a big blessing. I joined to help those who need to gain confidence and empowerment to get that dream job.
Kimberly Capehart
Location: Maryland
Role: Student Affairs and Metrics Lead
Why Rise Up? Help motivated people have a leg up on the job market, especially under-resourced populations.
Sukh Chugh
Location: California
Role: Chief Dreamer
Why Rise Up: Not everyone has had the same opportunities in life. Helping someone advance in their life is a gift we actually give ourselves. In the words of Robert Ingersoll: “We rise when we lift others”.
Ali Torabi
Location: Washington DC
Role: Coach
Why Rise Up? I have always enjoyed hearing about people’s stories and aspirations. This was an opportunity to give back to those that might not have access in their communities to the resources to support their career goals.
Gaurav Verma Location: New Jersey
Role: Coach
Why Rise Up? I’ve seen and heard about how difficult the past two years have been for people through the pandemic and want to help people get back on their feet anyway I can. I’ve spent many years helping friends and family with resume advice, interviewing, and job searching and hope to help others as well with the knowledge I have.
Social Media
Cindy Novak
Location: Washington
Role: Social Media Coordinator
Why Rise Up?: I have benefited greatly over the years from my many mentors and I enjoy being able to use my experience to help others. When I heard about the Rise Up Project, I felt strongly that I could contribute to the mission. I look forward to helping others succeed.
Noelle Rivera
Location: Texas
Role: Social Media
Why Rise Up?: My college did a great job helping me learn the skills for job applications and I wanted to pass it forward!
Alissa Santolo
Location: New Jersey
Role: Website Coordinator
Why Rise Up? I joined the Rise Up Project after recently participating in programs like this while I was in college. I wanted to continue mentoring in order to help people find opportunities for a successful career.
Legal
Gunita Singh
Location: California
Role: Legal Counsel
Why Rise Up? I am excited to be a part of the Rise Up Project because there are particularities in resume/cover letter drafting and interview etiquette that are not always intuitive. They must be taught in order to gain a competitive advantage. I am proud to contribute because I believe it is an invaluable resource for those who are navigating the job market
