As a functional fitness trainer, former youth basketball coach and mother of four adult children, Martha saw firsthand the health gap that exists between teens who have access to fitness activities and those who do not. Determined to help close this gap, she founded Upower in 2013. Martha is an experienced management consultant, having worked with management training programs in cities worldwide. In Seattle, she has served on a variety of nonprofit and for-profit boards and as an independent angel investor, consulting for companies such as Amazon.com. Martha holds a BA in American Civilization from Williams College and an MBA in Marketing from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

During his 20+ years at Microsoft, Stafford managed public relations and media as well as print and online initiatives for the Global Diversity and Inclusion team. He congruently established relationships with outside civil rights and human service organizations, K-12 schools, minority colleges and universities. Stafford worked to create and implement programs that give underserved communities equal access to technology. His efforts helped to provide Microsoft products and training to minority students and their teachers. Stafford has served on several Seattle-area nonprofit boards and often speaks at K-12 schools about the importance of academics and technology. He earned a BA in Sociology from the University of Washington where he played on the Husky football team. Stafford enjoyed a 10-year NFL career as defensive lineman playing for St. Louis Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings.

Lucy is a strong believer in the benefits of an active, healthy lifestyle paired with the presence of strong leadership and guidance. After graduating from Connecticut College with a BA in Art History, Lucy earned an associate’s degree in graphic design. She currently owns LB Creative Seattle, a small graphic design company. Lucy has volunteered with various at-risk youth organizations throughout the country including the Children’s Waiting Room in Pittsburgh and Invest in Youth in Seattle.

With strong business, fitness and community service experience, Luke leads our initiative to engage more millennials. He is an analyst at the investment firm Trilogy Search Partners and has spent time mentoring youth at Eye to Eye, volunteering for the VA and as a Boy Scout, participating in various community service activities including his own Eagle Scout project. Luke earned a BS in Biology from Whitman College where he also studied anatomy and physiology and worked as an athletic trainer. A Seattle native, Luke enjoys the outdoors and endurance athletic events.

Taylor was born and raised in Seattle. She received a BA in Sociology with a focus on race and ethnic studies from Colorado College and currently serves as director of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at University Prep. Taylor grew up competing in gymnastics, learning core values the sport has to offer such as discipline, grit, and belief in yourself. After gymnastics, Taylor followed in her brother’s footsteps and began playing ultimate Frisbee. She has been playing ever since middle school and coaching ultimate since college. She currently coaches at UPrep and the women’s team at the University of Puget Sound. When not on the frisbee field, Taylor is often found curled up with her cats, probably catching up on her favorite podcasts.

In 2010 Lesa founded Linster Creative, a full-spectrum marketing and public relations agency in Seattle. With more than 20 years of experience in public and media relations, brand development, communications, strategic marketing and social campaigns, collaborations, and events, her main focus today is in the world of lifestyle and hospitality. She gained experience working for bedrock Seattle entities including The Seattle Mariners, MSNBC, The Seattle Times, University of Washington, and The Moyer Foundation. Lesa has spent her career helping clients in Seattle and cities across the country expand their reach, develop brand partnerships, engage customers, share stories, and drive sales through new and creative paths. Her clients have been found in local, national, and international broadcasts and publications.

Lesa works hand in hand with chefs, destinations, and hospitality leaders and has helped open more than 25 restaurants and a number of award winning hotels. She is actively involved in her community providing pro-bono support to organizations serving youth who are underserved including No Kid Hungry, Upower, and a variety of others.

As a lifelong student and athlete, Sarah is passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives — be it on the field or in the classroom. She founded Best Foot Forward, a consulting company that provides guidance for college-bound high school students with a focus on student athletes. Sarah is a former English teacher, having taught at Stuart Hall High School in San Francisco and Oak Knoll School in Summit, New Jersey. Prior to her career in education, Sarah worked as an analyst at First Union Securities and as an assistant account executive in the Merrill Lynch Private Client Group for J. Walter Thompson. She holds AB in English from Princeton University and a Masters in English from Columbia University.

Michaela was born and raised in Seattle, WA. She serves as a Workforce Planning Project Manager & Data Analyst in Highline Public Schools. She manages various Human Resources projects, including increasing systemic support for the well-being of Highline’s adult workforce, the creation of a new leadership pathway for principals, redesigning HRs separation and exit data collection, and support for leadership hiring. Prior to her role in Human Resources, Michaela was a social studies teacher for eight years in the Bay Area before returning home to the Seattle area, where she has served as a Dean of School Culture and Restorative Justice and instructional coach in Highline Public Schools. She holds a School Administrator Certificate from the University of Washington, a Masters of Arts in Teaching, and a Bachelors in Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity from Stanford University.

Leighla has called Seattle home since 2006. She played basketball, softball, and volleyball until basketball became her primary sport as an adolescent. Leighla’s love of the game has provided her with years of coaching experience, creating access to the benefits of play. Her passion for working with the community and youth fueled her studies at the University of Washington where she earned a BA in Community Psychology and then a MA in Policy Studies. While working on her undergraduate degree Leighla completed an AmeriCorps term in partnership with Up2Us and Upower. Leighla is passionate about creating equitable systems and finding creative ways to dismantle institutional barriers, for everyone to live healthy, happy lives. When not getting paid to play with Upower, Leighla enjoys yoga, skiing, wake surfing and being with her family.

Throughout her time at Upower, Leighla has designed and rebranded the program of Upower while implementing Train the Trainer, Upower’s Toolkit, and Upower’s Equity Action Plan.

Contact Leighla (she/her) at leighla@u-power.org 

Marisa was born and raised in the Seattle area. She grew up playing ice hockey and soccer. She received her BA in Early Childhood and Family Studies from the University of Washington. She then received her MS in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Idaho. Marisa has worked in the field of recreational physical education for over 10 years across various sectors including preschools, recreation centers, military bases, hospitals, and more.

Marisa is passionate about creating sustainable trainings and programming that nurture the resiliency and social emotional growth of youth in underserved communities. In her free time, Marisa enjoys lifting weights, exploring new hiking trails with her dog AND cat, spending time with family, cooking, and playing video games.

Contact Marisa (she/they) at marisa@u-power.org

Noel was born in Farmington, New Mexico. Noel is proud to be raised in the Four Corners area on Navajo Native Land. Noel went on to receive a MA in Criminal Justice and a BA in Psychology from New Mexico State University while participating on NMSU’s Cross Country and Track & Field team. Noel has a passion in finding a remedy for mass incarceration through serving the community and is interested in analyzing effective alternative sanction programs to combat recidivism rates. When not spending time with the Upower team, Noel enjoys skateboarding, playing music, weight-lifting, and spending time laughing with friends and family.

Noel is currently working on Youth Led Friday’s curriculum to teach youth about disparities and policy changes and encourages kids to lead class for their peers. Noel has implemented Diversity and Equity Trainings for the team and is actively working on creating a Land Acknowledgement map for the website. Noel works closely alongside Executive Director, Leighla, in developing ethics, equity, diversity, and community outreach projects.

Contact Noel (they/them) at noel@u-power.org

Manny was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He moved to Washington three years ago and attended Seattle University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Manny has been involved in sports, specifically soccer, since the age of three, and he actively participates in the game across three different leagues. When not on the field, he volunteers his time coaching girls’ soccer, a role he’s embraced for a decade, working with young athletes aged 14-18.

Manny’s decision to join Upower was motivated by his desire to positively impact local youth in the community. He expresses a commitment to teamwork, aiming to inspire young individuals to become the best versions of themselves. Upower provides the platform for him to do just that. Outside of Upower, Manny enjoys going to the lake, wakeboarding, spending time with friends, reading, watching movies, and playing video games.

Contact Manny (he/him) at manny@u-power.org

James was born in Greenville, Mississippi. He was raised in Oakland, California. He attended Chico State University where he was a member of the men’s basketball team. He left Chico State to attempt playing basketball overseas. James plans on going back and finishing his education. Following, James started coaching and stressing to kids and young adults how important it is to finish school. He has nearly a decade of experience as a youth basketball coach. He specializes in sports leadership, mentorship, and building strong relationships with the communities Upower serves. With the kids, James focuses on proper form and technique to help build the youth’s basketball skills. Many students seek out James for specifically tailored advice regarding basketball. Additionally, James was a caregiver and worked in the special needs department and 18+ programs at Highland Park High School in Dallas, Texas. For Highland, James was also one of the assistant and developmental coaches. James has a lovely wife and together they parent four talented kids and six beautiful grandchildren. When he’s not at Upower, James is either playing basketball or reading anything he can get his hands on. His favorite genres include the civil war, abolitionism, black rights, and other history elements related to human rights. His favorite authors include W.E. B. Du Bois, Carter G. Woodson, and John Brown.

James is currently working on Upower’s Summer Curriculum for Youth in Detention & Incarceration with Coach Sam. James is responsible for developing and connecting the warm-up and activity portions of the curriculum with Coach Sam’s topics and lesson content. As a coach, James emphasizes the importance to motivate, encourage, and inspire our youth through basketball and other drill based activities. He heavily focuses on the individual student’s needs and interests, and works within their zone of proximal development to meet their ultimate goals. James acts as a critical role model for professional coaching techniques and mentors fellow staff.

Contact Coach Vicks (he/him) at jvicks@u-power.org

Azucena was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. Azucena has earned an Associate of Arts Degree and a BS in Kinesiology from Seattle University. Azucena grew up playing soccer and also participated in volleyball and track &  field. She is passionate about helping bridge the opportunity gap for youth of color to compete in sports and find activities that spark their interest while developing essential life skills. Azucena joined Upower to help bring a safe space for underserved youth to have fun and express themselves fully. She believes that building a positive relationship with physical activity from a young age is crucial for positive youth development. Outside of Upower, Azucena enjoys spending time with her cats, making art, taking walks, and playing soccer.

Contact Azucena (she/her) at azucena@u-power.org

Johann “Andrés” was born and raised in Coatepec Veracruz, Mexico, a city in the mountainy forest in the central region of Veracruz, two hours away from the Gulf of Mexico. He moved to the U.S. in 2016 to Auburn, Washington, and now lives in Seattle. Johann is in the 3rd year of his undergraduate degree in Early Care & Education, focusing on helping children that have difficulty learning in conventional school settings. Johann is very passionate about soccer, a sport he grew up playing, and has recently started boxing. His biggest passion is seeing the improvement and positive impact exercise has on youth. He was raised on the belief of always giving people a hand when in need, without expecting anything in return. He enjoys helping his community and providing a safe space and opportunities for others to grow, be resilient, and use physical activity to have fun and learn how to create a healthy lifestyle through play. Johann is excited to see how much he can accomplish and provide for the community, as his journey in this region has just started. Outside of Upower, Johann enjoys playing the requinto and spending time with his cats. He also likes playing online with his friends and hiking and camping outdoors.

Contact Johann (he/him/él) at johann@u-power.org

Lesly was born in Brewster, Washington, and raised in Bridgeport, Washington. Lesly is currently a senior at Seattle University and will earn a B.S. in Kinesiology in the Spring of 2024. Lesly is passionate about sports and has competed in soccer, volleyball, track & field, and basketball. One of her passions and goals is to provide a learning space for underserved communities ensuring that all members of the community feel seen and heard. She wants to make a difference by learning from underserved communities, providing the resources they may lack, and bridging a path between all communities to create a safe space for future generations to express themselves freely and provide a space where kids can be kids. Outside of Upower, Lesly enjoys being a mom to her one-year-old son, cooking, taking long walks in the park with her family, and supporting Seattle sports teams when they play at home.

Contact Lesly (she/her) at lesly@u-power.org

Olivia was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. Olivia attended Seattle University where she earned a BA in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology. She is currently a graduate student at the University of Washington working towards a Masters in Education. Using a trauma-informed approach, Olivia plans to support children to adapt to a healthy lifestyle. Olivia is passionate about taking what she has learned back to her community on Native American Reservations to reinforce the importance of getting active to strive towards a healthier lifestyle. Olivia believes that kids need time to be kids, and believes that  equitable access to physical activity allows children the space to express themselves and take part in healthy habits. With being a minority, Olivia has a passion for helping youth from marginalized communities by coaching and encouraging exercise that leads towards a healthy lifestyle.

Contact Olivia olivia@u-power.org

Sam was born and raised in Washington, DC. He participated in various sports during his youth, including football, basketball, baseball, and track. His passion for sports led him to pursue college football, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management.

Sam’s decision to become a part of Upower is driven by his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. He recognizes the age difference between himself and the young individuals we serve and is dedicated to nurturing their potential and bringing out their best. Upon joining Upower, he understands that, collectively, we aim to demonstrate to the youth the significant impact and effectiveness of collaboration. Outside of Upower, Sam also dedicates his time as a coach at F45 in Seattle. He enjoys keeping up with sports on ESPN and actively volunteers for community events.

Contact Sam (he/him) at sam@u-power.org

Cassidy is from Hilo, Hawaii who is a computer science student and tutor at Seattle University, thrives beyond academic pursuits as a photographer, avid hiker, and graphic designer. She’s also immersed in exploring new sports, currently finding joy in volleyball. With a love for peanut butter and adventure , she cherishes the experience of relocating to a new city for college. As a computer science major she is interested in enhancing the human experience with technology. Her commitment extends to Upower, where she aims to streamline web and data experiences, maximizing Upower’s impact on communities.

Meet Taylor Marks, originally from Newcastle, Washington. She’s all about blending sports and community spirit. Taylor’s studying for a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and has a background in soccer and track. But her real passion? Helping others through exercise. Balancing studies with sports, she’s part of both the women’s soccer and track teams at Seattle University. Outside of training, Taylor enjoys reading and working out. Whether she’s lifting weights or playing team sports, she’s always up for a challenge. Winning the state championship in track is one of her proudest moments. Joining Upower as an intern was a no-brainer for Taylor. It’s all about inspiring and supporting others on their fitness journey. And hey, if you catch her off the field, you might see her juggling three soccer balls at once!

Max is born and raised just outside of Chicago in Glenview. He is majoring in Finance and Business Analytics while doubling as a personal trainer at the Seattle University gym. Beyond weights and spreadsheets, his heart lies in adventure-whether it’s conquering the trails with his passion for running, immersing himself in the world of Formula One, or finding solace in the towering peaks. His journey into Upower stems from a desire to provide joy and resilience to kids, allowing them a carefree escape through sports. Max’s favorite thing about Upower is “being able to give kids time to have fun and not worry about other things in their lives”. Max embodies the spirit of adventure and community while striving to make a difference.

Adrienne Goode is a current intern at Upower from Seattle University. She was born and raised in San Francisco, California and is currently studying at Seattle University in the Kinesiology program with a minor in Data Science. Additionally, Adrienne is a student athlete and is a member of SUs Women’s Rowing Team. She loves to be around strong minded and motivated individuals while seeing them achieve their goals. Adrienne likes Upower’s approach to fitness and enjoys being around kids and their bubbly personalities. Outside of Upower Adrienne enjoys reading, being outdoors, and going on hikes to get her body moving!

Carmen is a current intern at Upower from Seattle University. Carmen was born and raised in Seattle, Washington and is currently a student at Seattle University working towards a BS in Kinesiology. Carmen participated in ballet, modern dance, and softball. Along with being a student and an intern for Upower, Carmen works at the UREC and is the president of Tau Sigma Gamma Mu Honor Society at Seattle University. They are hoping to continue their education to pursue a career in pediatric occupational therapy. Carmen is passionate about creating a warm and inviting space for youth to be themselves while instilling the importance of taking care of their overall well-being. Carmen believes that the demonstration and education of healthy lifestyle habits is something that should be accessible to all– regardless of background. Outside of Upower, Carmen likes to dance, read, garden, and bake.

Haley is the currently studying at Seattle University in the Master’s of Science in Kinesiology program after graduating from North Dakota State University. She makes movement a part of her daily life through hiking, yoga, and weightlifting. She first began working with kids at TNT Fitness in Fargo, North Dakota volunteering in providing fitness classes to children with physical disabilities and she strongly believes that we should be able to find and provide safe ways to play for folks from all walks of life.

Haley worked to develop a Program Evaluation tool and system to collect data on the efficacy and success of Upower’s programming. For the academic year of 2021-2022, Haley was as a coach while researching and developing this instrument for Upower.

Maddi was born and raised in Long Beach, CA. She received her BA in Cultural Anthropology at Seattle University where she was also a member of the women’s basketball team. Following Maddi’s undergrad years, she continued her education at Seattle U and earned a MS in Sports Business and Leadership. In the fight against oppressive systems, Maddi believes it’s important to create safe spaces where youth from marginalized communities can explore their own authenticity, especially when those communities have historically been forced to be anything but themself. When she’s not at Upower, Maddi is playing basketball or during winter months, she is snowboarding any chance she can.

Maliyah is currently pursing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology to pursue a career in Sports Psychology. She is a Washington native and was born in Mount Vernon. A passion of hers is being an advocate for young athletes who do not have the support they need to succeed and provide the tools necessary for their mental health as it is not highlighted enough. Outside of Upower, Maliyah enjoys working out, completing school work, and hanging out with friends.

Mia is currently an intern at Upower from Sammamish, Washington. She is a student at the University of Washington working towards a degree in Medical Anthropology & Global Health as well as a degree in Food Systems, Nutrition, & Health. Mia has competed in soccer, gymnastics, and rowing. Mia is passionate about understanding community networks and how they relate to overall wellness. As an athlete, Mia recognizes the importance of taking a trauma-informed approach in coaching and is looking forward to learning with Upower and taking the knowledge with her in her future career. Outside of Upower, Mia is the student assistant / team manager on the UW Women’s Rowing Team. You can also find her reading, hiking, paddle boarding, and exploring the PNW.

Parker is pursuing a degree in Kinesiology with a minor in Spanish. He was born in Houston, Texas but was raised in Mill Creek, Washington. He played football in high school, but his favorite sport was track and field, where he threw the shot put. Parker joined Upower to provide a positive impact on youth by passionately teaching the future generation to think critically. Just because a person or a machine says something is true, doesn’t mean that it always is. Outside of Upower, Parker likes to compete in video games, play fantasy sports, and exercise.

Peter Vandeventer is a current volunteer at Upower. He was raised in Covington, Washington. Peter is a first-generation college student and is in his 4th year studying  in the Kinesiology program. He has competed in football, baseball, and soccer throughout his life. Peter aligns with Upower’s framework and is eager to instill a positive relationship between activity and personal well-being. He is excited about being able to work hands-on with youth to help them find their passion via physical activity. He wants to encourage youth in tackling each day with confidence and having a positive outlook on the future.

Rick was born and raised in the Metro Detroit Area. He had a strong athletic background from his early years. He excelled in basketball and also participated in track and cross country during his grade school years. After completing high school, Rick pursued higher education at the University of Maryland Global Campus, earning a Criminal Justice degree.

Following his studies, Rick served in the United States Air Force (USAF). After his military service, he had the opportunity to play professional basketball overseas for a few years. Rick is proud of his service in the USAF and views basketball as a stepping stone that helped him build the fulfilling life he enjoys today.

Coaching and mentoring have always been Rick’s passions. He dedicates his time to volunteering at homeless shelters and food banks on a monthly basis. With over 20 years of experience, Rick is a seasoned coach in varsity high school basketball and AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) basketball. Apart from his involvement with Upower, Rick also serves as a coach for a high school girls’ varsity basketball team and provides personal training and skills development for youth and the elderly. Rick’s interests and involvement extend beyond coaching and mentoring. Rick also has a strong passion for music. He is currently engaged in various projects collaborating with national artists, and he owns an independent music label called “Talent 2 Equality” based in Seattle, WA.

Sam was born and raised on Long Island, New York. Sam played volleyball, softball, ran track, and boxed throughout her grade school years. Sam graduated high school a year early and attended Pace University in New York City where she earned her Associates Degree in Liberal Arts. She then took some time to explore the world and traveled throughout Europe before returning home to continue her work in Social Work. Sam has worked in the Social Services field since she was 16 and has experience working with youth from all walks of life. Sam recently moved to Seattle and is currently a student at WGU pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. Sam is passionate about empowering youth from marginalized communities and helping them build the confidence to pursue anything they want to in life. When not at Upower, Sam enjoys hiking, reading, eating good food, and spending time with her puppy. Sam likes lifting weights and is always pushing herself to hit new PR’s.

Srinidhi is currently an intern at Upower from Issaquah, Washington. They are a student at Seattle University working towards a BS in Kinesiology with a minor in English. They hope to further their education and pursue a career in physical therapy. Srinidhi participated in sports including running, dance, and intramural ultimate frisbee. Srinidhi is passionate about the impacts a healthy lifestyle can have on an individual’s overall wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Outside of Upower, Srinidhi is a writing consultant at the Seattle University Writing Center and the secretary for the Seattle University Chapter of Best Buddies. In their free time, Srinidhi likes to run, sing karaoke, and find new coffee shops around Seattle! Fun fact: Srinidhi can understand eight different languages native to the subcontinent India.