Our founders

Gabriella has always been passionate about healthcare. She graduated with High Honors from Middlesex School, and Cum Laude from Boston College, where she combined a major in Political Science with a Pre-Med track. 

Gabriella's passion for extending a compassionate hand to those in need has always burned brightly within her. Her journey began with visits to nursing homes alongside her younger sister, where she crafted heartfelt homemade cards, spent time with sick children in hospitals, orchestrated a town-wide book drive to raise awareness for leukemia, and personally delivered the collected books to a local hospital to read to children undergoing treatment.

In every endeavor and initiative she undertakes, Gabriella's empathy and unyielding dedication radiate, as she embraces challenges with grace and determination, striving to create an atmosphere of equality and inclusivity. Her initial draw to the medical profession was ignited by her profound desire to assist individuals grappling with mental disabilities, empowering them to nurture their aspirations and talents.

Beyond her dedication to mental health advocacy, Gabriella is deeply committed to working with immigrants and refugees. Most recently, she spearheaded a significant initiative addressing the pressing needs of the burgeoning refugee population in South Florida. Gabriella's passion for healthcare and her unwavering dedication to uplifting those in vulnerable circumstances continue to be the driving forces behind her impactful work.

Samantha has been at the forefront of Bright Star Foundation's mission to establish and oversee our community centers in Salem and Lynn, Massachusetts. After graduating from Phillips Exeter Academy with Highest Honors in 2019, she went on to graduate from the University of Southern California in 2023 with Summa Cum Laude in Law, History, and Culture. 

Samantha's fervor for human rights and public service has been a driving force in her life. Her passion for the field of law began during her internship at the Public Defender's Office in Salem, an experience that heightened her awareness of the unique challenges faced by the East Point community.

Her dedication to making a positive impact has also extended beyond borders. Samantha has volunteered in South Africa and has taken a proactive stance in recent years to expand Bright Star's outreach to Ukrainian refugees in the wake of Russia's invasion.

Since co-founding Bright Star, Samantha's visionary leadership has continued to evolve. She has played a pivotal role in securing investments for the construction and administration of our community centers. Samantha's exceptional organizational skills enable her to spearhead projects, coordinate promotional campaigns, attract new members, and engage with sponsors to bolster our noble cause.

 Samantha leads our foundation in identifying the most effective avenues for those in need to shine their light.