Head of Housing Department

Aryan is a Los Angeles native who has been part of the community since childhood. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering and psychology from the University of California, San Diego.

After graduation, he worked as an associate mechanical engineer at Northrop Grumman, contributing to projects such as the F-35 program. Seeking more engaging work, he pursued a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a specialization in product design at UC Berkeley. However, during this time Aryan realized his deeper interest lay in psychology.

Today, he works as a behavior interventionist in applied behavior analysis, helping autistic children become more responsive and teachable. He also volunteers as a mentor for middle school students and leads grief support groups.

At My New House, Aryan supports case management, trains volunteers, and assists with property listings, workflow organization, and process automation. He plans to pursue a PsyD in psychology in 2026.

Inventory & Donations

Axel was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from North Hollywood High School in 2012. From a young age, he has been passionate about faith, service, and community, with a lifelong dream of pursuing a career in Biblical Ministries. His dedication to helping others is evident through his long-standing involvement with My New House, where he has been a supporter since its founding. Over the years, Axel has contributed to many areas of the organization, including the thrift store, administrative support, and special events, always lending a helping hand wherever needed.

Outside of his volunteer work, Axel enjoys reading and spending time with his beloved dog, Jack, whom he takes pride in caring for. His ultimate goal is to see My New House continue to grow and transform lives, inspiring hope and faith in others through compassion, service, and community support.

Case Manager

Bill is driven by a deep passion for helping others and creating meaningful change in marginalized communities. With an accomplished career in global supply chain management, he has held key leadership roles at Rocket Lab, Interstellar Lab Inc., and Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX). Throughout his career, Bill has led procurement, operations, and strategic sourcing initiatives, achieving measurable results in cost reduction, efficiency, and supplier collaboration.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Supply Chain and Operations Management from Miami University. Known for his strong relationship management, analytical thinking, and strategic leadership skills, Bill combines corporate expertise with a genuine commitment to service.

Now contributing his experience to My New House, Bill leverages his organizational and strategic acumen to support individuals facing housing and stability challenges. His compassion and dedication are further reflected in his volunteer work with the West Side Food Bank.

Software Engineer

Caroline Hughes is a software engineer and community volunteer passionate about using technology to create meaningful social impact. She currently works at Oracle Health & AI, where she develops and deploys secure, scalable cloud infrastructure for healthcare applications. Caroline holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Northeastern University, where she specialized in software engineering and distributed systems.

Throughout her career, Caroline has contributed to a range of technical projects, from developing iOS features for the Nike Training Club app to building full-stack applications for The Routing Company and Chewy. Skilled in multiple programming languages and cloud technologies, she brings a blend of technical expertise and purpose-driven innovation to her work.

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Caroline now lives in Los Angeles, where she volunteers with My New House, helping strengthen local communities. Outside of work, she enjoys running, playing soccer, and exploring the outdoors.

Case Manager & Software Engineer

Dang is a full-time Software Engineer with over five years of professional experience in the technology industry. Throughout his career, he has developed strong technical and problem-solving skills, but his long-term goal is to transition into the field of counseling. He plans to pursue a Master of Science in Counseling and ultimately obtain licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).

Beyond his engineering career, Dang is committed to supporting others through volunteer work. He serves with the Crisis Text Line, where he provides compassionate, real-time support to individuals navigating emotional distress. This experience has deepened his interest in mental health and strengthened his desire to create a meaningful impact as a counselor.

In his free time, Dang enjoys discovering new music, bouldering, and spending time with his two cats. His blend of technical expertise, empathy, and dedication to service uniquely equips him for his future path in counseling.

Accounts Receivable

Eddie is an analytical and detail-oriented professional with a strong background in bioinformatics, biotechnology, and data analysis. He holds a Master of Science in Bioinformatics and Medical Informatics from San Diego State University and a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Eddie has gained extensive experience conducting biological data analysis and research through roles at the University of Southern California and the San Diego State University Research Foundation. His expertise includes data visualization, statistical analysis using R, and the implementation of research protocols that ensure accuracy and data security.

In addition to his academic and research work, Eddie has volunteered as a Career Coach Intern with the San Diego Workforce Partnership, where he helped individuals develop essential computer and career skills. His commitment to lifelong learning, teamwork, and problem-solving reflects his passion for using data to drive innovation and positive impact.

Development

Eric is an accomplished writer with over 20 years of experience across comics, video games, journalism, television, and theatre. Known for his creative versatility, he has contributed to major publishers and organizations including DC Comics, Archie Comics, BOOM Studios, Scholastic, and Nickelodeon Magazine.

Eric’s work spans original storytelling and licensed properties, with credits in comic books, prose fiction, and interactive media. He has also written for video games, developing characters, dialogue, and narrative for mobile platforms. In addition to his creative work, Eric has contributed to journalism and literary publications, showcasing his range as a storyteller.

A graduate of the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s TV Writers Program and Playwright Fellowship, Eric is passionate about elevating diverse voices through storytelling. Based in Los Angeles, he continues to create impactful, engaging content that connects with audiences across multiple platforms and mediums.

Legal & Compliance

Etsubdink is a legal and compliance professional with over three years of experience in due diligence, risk management, and regulatory affairs across both U.S. and international sectors. She specializes in compliance audits, contract analysis, and regulatory advisory, with expertise in frameworks such as GDPR, CCPA, SOX, and AML/KYC.

Etsubdink earned her LL.M. in International Business Law from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and holds an LL.B. in Law from Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia. Her professional experience includes roles at Safaricom/Vodafone Ethiopia, where she led compliance audits, developed risk mitigation strategies, and enhanced data integrity, as well as at Fares Manufacturing Plc., where she managed international regulatory compliance and contract reviews.

Currently based in Los Angeles, Etsubdink continues to expand her expertise through certification in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) and ISO 27001 auditing, demonstrating her commitment to upholding ethical standards and regulatory excellence in every endeavor.

Communications & Human Resources Manager

Gabriela Mena is a communications professional with a successful career in sports marketing and communications. She holds a degree in Communications and has applied her expertise across diverse fields, including nonprofits, youth leadership programs, e-commerce, and photography. Her professional journey reflects both versatility and a deep commitment to fostering community engagement through sport and media.

Beyond her career, Gabriela is a dedicated volunteer and leader in international basketball. She serves on the Finance Commission of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and plays a key leadership role within FIBA Americas, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the sport across the region. In addition, she is an active member of the Women’s Basketball Commission Board in El Salvador, where she advocates for female representation and leadership in athletics.

Through her professional work and volunteer service, Gabriela continues to champion empowerment, equity, and growth within sports and communications.

Inventory & Donations

Gianni was born in Los Angeles and graduated from Robert F. Kennedy Community School in 2016. From the very beginning, he has been an active and dedicated volunteer at My New House, contributing to various areas including the thrift store and billing. His long-term commitment and innovative thinking have made him an important part of the organization’s growth and community outreach.

Recently, Gianni proposed the idea of transitioning the thrift store back to in-person operations, introducing a fresh perspective focused on affordability and accessibility. His vision aims to provide high-quality items at very low prices, ensuring that families and individuals in need can benefit directly from the store’s resources.

Gianni’s greatest desire is to see the My New House Thrift Store thrive, expanding its reach while maintaining its mission to serve with compassion and integrity.

The Giving Closet

Gladys was born in El Salvador and graduated with a degree in Graphic Arts in 1968. She was married to Ismael Alexander Mejia for 50 wonderful years until his passing in 2018. Following this life change, Gladys moved to the United States to live with her family, bringing with her a lifetime of creativity, strength, and dedication.

An entrepreneur at heart, Gladys has been part of My New House since its founding, contributing her artistic eye and business experience to the organization’s thrift store. Her creativity and commitment have helped shape the welcoming environment that supports so many families in need.

Beyond her work and volunteer service, Gladys enjoys cooking traditional meals, spending time with her loved ones, and watching television. Her greatest desire is to continue serving and supporting My New House’s mission to bring hope and assistance to the community she now calls home.

Head of Case Management

Jamesha is a dedicated and driven graduate from University of California Irvine in Sociology and has her associates from Santa Monica College in Social and Behavioral Science, where she has consistently earned a place on the Dean’s List. With a strong academic foundation in organizational studies, research methods, and artificial intelligence literacy, she is passionate about understanding social systems and fostering equity within communities.

Before pursuing higher education, Jamesha built professional experience in both the culinary and marketing industries. As a Sous Chef for Chef Marlene Bernstein, she curated seasonal menus and elevated client experiences through creativity and attention to detail. Earlier, as an Account Liaison at Agency 54, she managed client relations, optimized communication systems, and developed marketing strategies that boosted engagement.

Jamesha’s leadership extends beyond academics—she has served as Director of Activities for Santa Monica College’s Black Collegians and as a Student Title IX Leader. Her blend of analytical insight, creativity, and social awareness positions her as an emerging changemaker in her field.

Case Worker

Jayne is a dedicated student at the University of California, Los Angeles, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Chicana/o Studies. She has maintained strong academic performance and earned recognition on the Dean’s List for her commitment to excellence.

Jayne is passionate about mentorship, education, and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. As a Training Coordinator and Mentor with UCLA CASE, she provides guidance and college-readiness support to LAUSD high school students, helping them build confidence and achieve their academic goals.

In addition to her mentorship work, Jayne has contributed to academic research as a Research Assistant with UCLA’s MuHsic Study and completed a psychotherapy skills internship at Sentio University, where she practiced crisis intervention and communication skills.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Jayne is committed to empowering communities through education, research, and compassionate service.

Social Worker

Joisi is a dedicated case management worker at My New House and a Master of Social Work graduate at the University of Southern California. She previously earned her Bachelor of Social Work from UMASS Global University and also holds degrees in Psychology and Behavioral Science, along with certification as a Medical Assistant.

Originally from Guatemala, Joisi immigrated to the United States at age 13, an experience that shaped her passion for social justice and advocacy. A pivotal point in her journey was her work at the Guatemalan General Consulate in Los Angeles, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges people faced due to lack of resources. Inspired to create change, she began educating and empowering individuals to access their rights and essential services.

Guided by her Christian faith, Joisi is committed to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a focus on children and families. She finds joy in church life, family, and community service.

Inventory & Donations

Jorge was born in El Salvador and immigrated to the United States 47 years ago in pursuit of new opportunities. Throughout his life, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to hard work, integrity, and community service. Before retiring, Jorge built a long and successful career in Glendale, working for many years as a mail clerk at McIntyre Insurance, where he was known for his reliability and dedication.

Prior to coming to the U.S., Jorge worked at ADOC, one of El Salvador’s most prestigious shoe companies, where he played a key role in helping the business transition from mechanical production to modern technology.

Now retired, Jorge continues to dedicate his time to helping others through volunteer work and community service. Compassionate and service-driven, he finds great joy in giving back, caring for those around him, and supporting organizations that make a positive difference in people’s lives.

Product Entry

Katherine Ma is a dedicated Product Entry Volunteer at My New House, where she contributes to the organization’s mission of providing essential resources to individuals and families in need. She joined the team in late 2024 and has since supported operations with her attention to detail and commitment to service.

Katherine graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media, after beginning her academic journey at community college. During her studies, she cultivated a passion for storytelling across film, television, theatre, and digital media. Her aspiration is to create productions that not only entertain but also comfort, inspire, and provide meaningful experiences for audiences.

As she continues to navigate her career path after graduation, Katherine remains committed to both creative expression and community service. Through her volunteer work and personal aspirations, she strives to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

Case Manager

Leslie Priego is a compassionate and dedicated professional with a strong background in psychology and child development. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Adolescent Development from California State University, Northridge, and previously completed an Associate degree in Psychology from Los Angeles Valley College.

Leslie currently serves as a Social Work Intern at Partnerships to Uplift Communities (PUC Inspire), where she supports students and families by connecting them with essential resources and assisting in case management efforts. In addition, she works as a Registered Behavioral Therapist with the Behavior Education Service Team (B.E.S.T.), providing one-on-one behavioral interventions to help children reach key developmental milestones under the supervision of a BCBA.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Leslie brings empathy, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of children and families through education, advocacy, and compassionate support.

Billing Specialist

Luz Maríais an information technology professional with experience in data analysis, digital operations, and customer service management. She holds a degree in Computer Engineering from Universidad Tecnología TECH in El Salvador and has strengthened her expertise through certifications in cybersecurity, data analytics, and business intelligence, including the Google Data Analytics and Google Cybersecurity professional programs.

Luz María has worked in the digital business and operations areas of BAC Credomatic, where she served as an Administrative and Quality Analyst within the Digital Intelligence and CRM Operations team. In this role, she analyzed performance indicators, supported automation improvements, and contributed to operational efficiency.

She currently works as a Digital Contact Center and Services Supervisor, coordinating teams across multiple digital platforms and ensuring high-quality customer service. Known for being adaptable, proactive, and collaborative, Luz María is passionate about using technology to solve real-world challenges.

Intake Administrator

Legal & Compliance

María Fernanda Flores, born in Ecuador, is a dedicated legal professional with a strong commitment to justice, human rights, and cultural preservation. She holds a Law degree from the Courts of the Republic of Ecuador and a Bachelor’s in Social and Political Sciences from the University of Cuenca. A certified Mediator through the Pichincha Bar Association, she also serves as a Notary Public in California, accredited by the Secretary of State. Currently, María is expanding her legal expertise by pursuing Paralegal studies at Pasadena City College.

Beyond law, María channels her passion for culture and creativity through RepresentEC, a platform that celebrates Ecuadorian heritage through design, urban art, and fine handcrafted products. She also embraces ancestral wisdom through her 4 Elements collection, crafting essential oil blends inspired by Sumak Kawsay, the philosophy of living in harmony.

María’s multifaceted background reflects her dedication to advocacy, cultural identity, and community well-being.

Admissions Remote

Nathaly is a motivated and compassionate young professional with training in health assistance and community care. She recently graduated from Theodor Herzl School, where she specialized in Health Assistance, gaining knowledge in primary healthcare and patient support.

Nathaly is recognized for her positive attitude, perseverance, and strong sense of discipline. She enjoys working collaboratively and values teamwork as an essential part of providing effective care and support. Through her studies, she also earned a diploma focused on assisting older adults, developing practical skills in caregiving and patient attention.

Her educational journey began at Genesis School and continued through her primary studies at Escuela Rural Mixta Unificada Profesora Herminia Martínez Alvarenga in El Salvador, where she built a strong academic foundation.

Nathaly is passionate about helping others and hopes to continue growing professionally while contributing to the well-being and care of people in her community.  

Website & Graphic Designer

Niharika Upadhyayula is a recent Master’s graduate in Computer Science from George Mason University and a skilled front-end developer passionate about creating intuitive, user-friendly digital experiences. With a strong eye for design and functionality, she excels at transforming ideas into sleek, responsive interfaces that enhance user engagement.

Niharika is dedicated to writing clean, efficient code and is continually exploring new tools, frameworks, and technologies to push the boundaries of modern web development. Her academic background, combined with hands-on experience, has equipped her with expertise in front-end technologies and a problem-solving mindset that allows her to approach challenges with creativity and precision.

Beyond technical proficiency, Niharika is motivated by a desire to create products that make a meaningful impact on users’ daily lives. She is eager to continue growing as a developer, contributing to innovative projects, and advancing the ever-evolving world of web technology.

The Giving Closet

Nora takes great pride in being a loving mother and a devoted Catholic whose faith guides every aspect of her life. She finds joy and purpose in attending church and serving God through acts of compassion and service to others. A graduate of the University of El Salvador, where she earned her degree as a Medical Doctor, Nora brings a strong background in healthcare and a deep commitment to helping people.

At My New House, Nora is a dedicated and dependable team member who assists wherever she is needed—whether in the thrift store, at special events, or in case management. Her professionalism, empathy, and attention to detail ensure that every individual served receives compassionate and quality care.

Nora’s dedication, humility, and faith continue to inspire those around her. Through her work and her example, she reflects the mission and heart of My New House in action.

Website & Graphic Designer

Phyu Hnin Lwin, a proud immigrant from Myanmar and first-generation college student, is currently in her third year at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where she is pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Software Engineering. With a strong commitment to her academic journey, Phyu is dedicated to developing the technical expertise and problem-solving skills needed to excel in the field of technology.

Beyond her studies, she is passionate about continuous learning and actively seeks opportunities to grow through collaboration and mentorship. Phyu aspires to use her education not only to build a successful career but also to create meaningful, positive change within her community. Her background as an immigrant and trailblazer in higher education has instilled in her resilience, determination, and a strong sense of purpose.

Phyu hopes to inspire others with similar backgrounds to pursue their goals and to leverage technology as a tool for empowerment and progress.

Healthcare Assistance

With over 12 years of experience in the insurance industry, Sara Renata Larrazabal is a seasoned Licensed Insurance Agent specializing in Life, Health, Small Business, Property, and Casualty coverage. She began her career in enrollment and outreach, helping individuals and families secure health plans tailored to their needs. Over the years, she has held key roles with organizations such as Anthem Blue Cross (Elevance Health Plan), AltaMed, and Benevolence Health Center, where she excelled in enrollment development, business growth, and community engagement.

Sara’s tenure at Anthem Blue Cross was especially impactful, as she surpassed Medicare sales goals through strategic planning and client education, earning certification in ESRD SNP. In addition to her corporate work, she successfully manages her own insurance business, guiding clients through complex coverage decisions with clarity and care. Holding multiple professional licenses and certifications, Sara is committed to providing expert, client-focused service in an evolving industry.

Development

Tisha Custodio is a Psychology major with a minor in Health and Society at Loyola Marymount University, expected to graduate in 2026. She combines her academic interests with a strong passion for wellness, education, and community service. As a Wellness Educator at LMU, Tisha facilitates workshops on mental health, stress management, and holistic well-being while advocating for a supportive campus environment. She also tutors with Lions for Learning, enhancing student engagement and academic success.

Tisha has gained diverse professional experience, including an internship at Sentio University, where she trained in psychotherapy skills, and previous work as a Behavior Interventionist at Turning Point Healthcare. She has also served as a youth mentor with Saving Our Daughters, empowering young women through leadership and confidence-building programs.

Beyond her academic and service roles, Tisha is also an accomplished actress, having starred as a series regular on a Disney Television series from 2019 to 2023.

Data Analyst

Swetha is a passionate advocate for using technology to drive social good and currently volunteers as a Data Analyst at My New House. In this role, Swetha collects and analyzes data to uncover meaningful insights, manages a comprehensive donor database, and supports the implementation of data-driven strategies that strengthen the organization’s impact. By leveraging analytical skills and attention to detail, she helps optimize programs and ensure resources are used effectively to better serve the community.

Dedicated to fostering positive change, Swetha thrives in collaborative environments where innovative ideas and problem-solving are encouraged. With a strong commitment to community service, she combines technical expertise with a mission-driven mindset to develop solutions that amplify outreach and program effectiveness.

Through this work, Swetha continues to grow as a professional while contributing to My New House’s vision of providing essential support and opportunities to underserved individuals and families.

Social Media

Valerie is a skilled communications professional specializing in social media management, design, and photography. Guided by values of honesty, ethics, and creativity, she is passionate about using digital media to connect communities and inspire meaningful engagement.

Valeria is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Communications at Universidad Don Bosco in El Salvador, where she also earned a Technical degree in Multimedia. Her experience spans both nonprofit and professional settings—serving as a Social Media Volunteer for My New House in Los Angeles and Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in San Salvador, as well as working as a Community Manager and Designer for Via Rio Salon & Spa in Maryland.

Previously, she volunteered as a Translator and Assistant for the National Basketball Federation of El Salvador, supporting international collaboration efforts. Valeria is known for her attention to detail, proactive attitude, and ability to deliver creative, strategic solutions in every project she undertakes.

Case Manager

Viviana Payan is a dedicated student and compassionate volunteer with a strong commitment to service, education, and animal welfare. She is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in Pre-Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she is recognized for her academic excellence, earning placement on the Head’s Honor Roll and receiving the National Hispanic Recognition Award.

Viviana has diverse experience in service and community engagement. She currently works as a Customer Service Representative at UCLA’s ASUCLA LuValle Commons, where she thrives in a fast-paced environment while delivering excellent customer care. Passionate about animals, she has volunteered with The Gentle Barn and interned at The Herd Rescue, gaining hands-on experience in animal care and promoting healing connections between people and animals. She has also served her community through The Midnight Mission and as a student tutor at Alverno Heights Academy.

Viviana is bilingual in Spanish and values adaptability, empathy, and resilience.

Case Worker

Amanda Talavera is an educator, mentor, and advocate for academic empowerment with a strong background in English and criminal justice. She holds a Master of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in English from St. John’s University.

Amanda is passionate about supporting students from diverse backgrounds and helping them build confidence in their academic and personal journeys. She currently serves as a High School Student Mentor with Minds Matter Southern California, guiding high-achieving, low-income students through academic planning, career exploration, and personal development.

She also works as a Literacy Tutor with the Glendale Library, Arts & Culture Trust, where she helps adult learners strengthen their writing and communication skills through personalized instruction. Additionally, Amanda has experience tutoring immigrant students and leading student retreats focused on resilience and personal growth.

Amanda is committed to empowering learners through mentorship, education, and meaningful community engagement.