Meet the Team
Toys for Hope is powered by people who care. Get to know the dedicated individuals working behind the scenes to bring comfort, joy, and sensory support to children in hospitals nationwide.
Co-Founders
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Co-Founder
Ashvin is a senior at the University of Chicago studying neuroscience. He leads community efforts as President of both UNICEF and the University Blood Initiative at UChicago.
Ashvin volunteers at Comer Children’s Hospital, serves as an on-campus EMT, and supports mental health as a Crisis Text Line counselor. He’s conducted neuroscience research at Stanford, MIT, Boston Children’s, and UChicago. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and playing ping pong.
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Co-Founder
Aditya is a sophomore at Pine Crest School with a strong interest in computer science. He enjoys giving back to his community through volunteering at local robotics competitions and Teen Court. Additionally, he conducts research at the Center for Connected Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence Lab at Florida Atlantic University. In his free time, Aditya loves listening to music and lifting weights (and is currently coding an app to educate users about weightlifting)!
Chapter Leaders
Parv Kale, Utah Chapter Leader
Parv is a high school student at Waterford High School in Utah with a strong passion for STEM, leadership, and community service. He serves as a board member of the Student Advisory Board for the University of Utah Science and Engineering Fair, mentoring and judging young scientists.
His commitment to service is evident through his extensive volunteering, including organizing various fundraisers and donating supplies to underprivileged schools. An accomplished soccer player and robotics enthusiast, he enjoys working in team-based environments like robotics club and has earned recognition in state and national science competitions.
Ethan Miao, Massachusetts Chapter Leader
Ethan Miao is a student at Bishop Feehan High School who is passionate about leadership and serving his community. A member of his school’s student council, Ethan plans school events and attends leadership conferences. He also plays on the Bishop Feehan soccer team and captains his club soccer team.
Outside of school, Ethan enjoys snowboarding, and he works as a snowboard instructor in the winter. Additionally, he loves learning about many things, such as investing. Ethan is committed to having a positive impact wherever he is, and he hopes to continue growing as a leader.
Jose Guerrero, Texas Chapter Co-Leader
Jose Guerrero is a high school student in Texas with a strong passion for leadership and service. He currently serves as Vice President of Student Council and Co-President of the Spanish Honor Society. In addition to leading within his school community, Jose is actively involved in FBLA as a parliamentary team member and contributes creatively as the photographer for his school’s HOSA chapter. He’s excited to bring his leadership experience and enthusiasm to Toys for Hope as he helps expand its mission across Texas.
Naomi Covington, Florida Chapter Leader
Hello, I’m Naomi Covington, a motivated and dedicated student. I’m in multiple clubs, serve on the board of 3 clubs, and represent the junior class on the student council. I enjoy working with others and doing what I can to create a positive impact. Outside of school, I’m passionate about videography and always looking for new, creative ways to grow. Faith and kindness are important to me, and I try to carry those values into everything I do. I believe in showing up fully, staying curious, and lifting others along the way.
Nishanth Kanmihalli, Illinois Chapter Leader
Nishanth is a freshman at Waubonsie Valley High School in Illinois with a strong passion for medicine, athletics, and community service. He is an active member of the Aspiring Medical Professions Club, where he learns about the medical field and the techniques and practices doctors use.
Dedicated to giving back, Nishanth volunteers at a local hospital and supports various cultural organizations. In addition to his academic interests, he enjoys playing tennis and basketball. Nishanth hopes to pursue a career in medicine and one day become a doctor, making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Ugo Okpara, Texas Chapter Co-Leader
Ugo Okpara is a passionate and driven student leader with a strong commitment to community service, teamwork, and innovation. He co-founded his school’s Applied Engineering Club, leads several youth and sports initiatives, and actively mentors others through his church and volunteer work. Ugo is dedicated to making a positive impact wherever he serves, combining leadership, empathy, and creativity to inspire change.
Chinedu Abiaziem, Texas Chapter Co-Leader
Hi! My name is Chinedu, and I’m proud to serve as the State Leader for Toys for Hope in Texas. I’m super excited to be part of this amazing mission to bring happiness, hope, and a little extra magic to kids and families in our communities. I joined Toys for Hope because I truly believe that every child deserves to feel special, especially during the holidays and tough times. I can’t wait to work with an awesome team of volunteers, partners, and supporters to make a real difference this year. Let’s spread some joy, one toy at a time!