Shariq is pursuing his Master’s in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution with a focus on peacebuilding from Columbia University. His passion is finding intersections between communities for collaboration and mutual growth. He loves to connect with people over chai or burgers.

Seyi is passionate about empowering others and contributing to mission-driven work. She loves creating structure and finding ways to make a lasting impact in the communities and organizations she serves.

Julianne is passionate about helping underprivileged communities amplify their voices and address structural change. She plans to complete her Master’s in Public Policy Analysis. Julianne was inspired to work at the Minaret Foundation because of their efforts to unite people and organizations to fight for a common cause. 

Angie believes every voice is impactful, and is worth being heard. She has a passion for storytelling and representing the community. In her free time, Angie loves to cook food from her culture and beyond.

Ishita has always been drawn to the idea of building a just society through applied principles of faith and hopes to spread those ideals further through her work at Bridges. She is especially passionate about immigrant rights (proud second gen Indian American!) and reforming the prison system. 

Nadia is passionate about being useful to those around her, whether that be at home or in her community. She believes that coming to someone’s aid is the essence of humanity. She also believes that service is the most meaningful when it is rooted in empathy, respect, and genuine care. 

Justin was drawn to work at Bridges because of its commitment to cultivating peace, making neighbors better neighbors in everyday communities. Guided by the call to love one’s neighbor as oneself, Justin is passionate about hospitality, peacemaking, and partnering with God to make this place look more like Heaven.

Meghan leads with faith at the forefront of her life, in music and in community. She sang in a gospel choir in NYC for ten years, and music continues to be her way of connecting with faith, with people, and with purpose. She’s passionate about healing the world and making it better, whether through her music career or simply being a source of light in people’s lives. 

Carly has always been fascinated by the stories people tell; about themselves, each other, and the world around them. She believes thoughtful communication can build trust, deepen understanding, and create space for meaningful relationships. She enjoys reading, creative writing, and finding beauty in everyday moments with her family.

Kayla is also a huge animal lover and has four cats! 

Rohan Patel is a Policy Intern at Bridges. Civic education, community outreach, and young engagement have always been core pillars in Rohan’s life, and he is excited to be able to work on those passions as a member of Bridges.