Shetal Patel

Founder  Shetal has a Master’s degree in Business Administration from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. After selling the business she owned for over seven years, she turned her hobby of photography into a part-time business. She enjoys capturing faces and the stories behind them.  Shetal’s photos appear monthly on the cover of Neighbors of Four Points magazine. She is the mother of two teenage boys who have worked with her in giving back to children in Africa. She is dedicated to spending the time and effort necessary to make Sparkle and Rise a success in connecting people in the US with underprivileged children around the world. She says, “We can’t change the circumstances these children were born into, but we can give them the opportunity to succeed with the medical care, education, and resources they so desperately need.”  

Mikayla Langham

With over a decade of experience in education, nonprofit work, and ministry, Mikayla has dedicated herself to fostering positive change. From the age of 12, she committed her weekends to a non-profit that empowered victims of abuse through music. Additionally, Mikayla co-founded a ministry in Mexico that taught English as a second language, providing pastors with a pathway to evangelize and expand the reach of their spiritual outreach efforts. Now, as Director of Sparkle and Rise, Mikayla is driven by a profound belief in collective action. She leverages innovative strategies and meaningful partnerships to amplify the organization’s impact. Through strategic planning, advocacy, and a commitment to inclusivity, Mikayla aims to create a ripple effect of positive change, reaching children not only in Zambia but also across the United States. Her vision extends beyond geographical borders, envisioning a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Mikayla’s unwavering dedication, coupled with her passion for empowering youth and fostering community engagement, positions her as a dynamic leader poised to inspire lasting change on a global scale.

Donna Sharma

Volunteer Lead, Africa Donna is a loving mother and a doting wife. When she is not busy running around with her little boy, she gives her time and dedication to give back to less fortunate. She and her friends take care of a needy orphanage in Lusaka, Zambia with proving food, school supplies and other needs. She is actively looking for more ways to help these children. She is a great addition to our Sparkle and Rise team in Africa.  

Ana Luring

Volunteer Team, Zambia 

Shivani Joshi

Project and Social Media Manager , Newyork  Shivani is a hiring manager for a medical equipment company, a devoted wife and most importantly, a doting mother. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Public health from University of North Florida. In her spare time, she loves volunteering for organizations that help children with education. Working with children in whatever capacity she can has always been her passion. On her recent trip to India, She had the pleasure of volunteering for Sparkle and Rise, and the experience gave her a deep appreciation for how Sparkle and Rise seeks to improve the quality of life by making children understand their true potential. Sparkle and Rise has inspired Shivani to start the penny project in Brooklyn, NY ; where she resides with her family. 

Laney Lyons Sturdivant

Chief Operating Officer Laney’s passion is to create the possibility of a better future for our children. From Cambodia, to Peru, to Ghana (where she volunteered) to our own East Austin. I’ve learned all children deserve the opportunity to learn and grow and that laughter and love is universal. I left my law firm manager position 10 years ago and started my own virtual, back office paralegal company to allow myself flexibility to travel and be available locally to meet the needs of our children, as well as my own young son. I’ve been so blown away by the participation of the Austin community in coming together to meet the needs and bring some fun wants to these children as well as clothing, reading glasses, soccer balls, money for school lunches and other items sent to Ghana. I enjoy this life with my husband, John, our children John John, Jordan, Maximus and Siena and hope you join us in bringing these children some love and laughter. I know it sounds cliche, but you truly get more than you give from it

Yash Sharma- Lead Ambassador, Zambia

Yash Sharma, Lead Youth Ambassador Zambia. Yash has been a dedicated volunteer with Sparkle since the young age of 4. Over the years, his commitment and passion for helping others have only grown stronger. Now, as the Lead Ambassador, Yash plays a pivotal role in inspiring and guiding other children to join Sparkle’s mission. Through his leadership, Yash is empowering children in Lusaka, Zambia, and making a lasting impact on their lives. His journey is a testament to the power of compassion and the difference that one person can make, regardless of age.

Ishaan Jhaveri- Youth Ambassador, Austin

Katherine Luering,Youth Ambassador, Germany

Youth Ambassador, Germany

Nico Luering, Youth Ambassador, Germany

Penny Jar Manager, Germany

Jhanvi Vaidya

Youth Ambassador, Zambia

Shivin Maitra, Youth Ambassador

Youth Ambassador, 10 years old. Studies in grade 6 at International School of Lusaka

Sahana maitra, Youth Ambassador

Youth Ambassador, Age 12 Studies in grade 8 at International School of Lusaka

Samaira Chahar,Youth Ambassador

Youth Ambassador Age -12 years.

Yugveer Singh Chahar , Penny Jar Hero

Age -5 yrs old , Grade -1.