Ziad Ahmed

Ziad Ahmed, a 23-year-old American-Muslim-Bangladeshi entrepreneur and speaker, is a compelling candidate for the Face of Compassion photoshoot. As the CEO and founder of JUV Consulting, a purpose-driven Generation Z marketing consultancy, he empowers young people by ensuring their voices are heard in corporate and social spheres. Ahmed’s commitment to social justice is further demonstrated through his non-profit organization, Redefy, which he founded to combat discrimination and promote inclusivity. His dedication to fostering understanding and empathy among diverse communities exemplifies the compassionate leadership that the Face of Compassion campaign seeks to highlight.

Dietrice Bolden

Dietrice Bolden, Artistic Director of IMPACT Repertory Theatre in Harlem, exemplifies compassion through her dedication to empowering youth via the performing arts. As one of the first members of IMPACT in 1997, she has transformed her personal journey into a mission to provide a safe space for young people to explore current events and their own experiences through theater and song. Under her leadership, IMPACT offers leadership training and performance opportunities, fostering personal growth and community engagement among its members. Bolden’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting social change through the arts makes her an inspiring candidate for the Face of Compassion photoshoot

Rafael Espinal

A former city council member, Rafael Espinal has championed mental health and workers’ rights for creatives and freelancers. His compassion-driven policies advocate for underserved workers, emphasizing mental well-being and fair labor practices.

Robert Galinsky

Robert Galinsky is a multifaceted director, actor, coach, and playwright based in New York City. He teaches at the Juilliard School in the Jazz Studies Department and at Sing Sing Maximum Security Prison through Literacy for Incarcerated Teens. Galinsky debuted Off-Broadway as playwright and actor at the Cherry Lane Theater in his acclaimed solo show “The Bench, A Homeless Love Story,” directed by Jay O. Sanders. He has directed and co-authored over 50 TEDx Talks and was selected to perform his iconic poem “Five Fights” at the 2022 Whitney Biennial. Galinsky is recognized for his work as head speaker coach of TEDxTeen and for his unique ability to engage incarcerated and imprisoned youth with literacy, writing, and theatre. Galinsky’s dedication to empowering marginalized communities through the arts and education exemplifies compassion in action. His initiatives provide platforms for self-expression and personal growth, fostering empathy and understanding. Highlighting his work in the Face of Compassion photoshoot would showcase the transformative impact of compassionate leadership in the arts and education sectors.

Arielle Levy

Arielle exemplifies compassion in design, creating inclusive spaces that foster dignity and connection. Her work on the Best Buy Teen Tech Center transformed a local café into a hub for youth mentorship, addressing educational gaps and promoting belonging. As a Bronx native, she leads the Hip Hop Museum, celebrating Black culture while meeting housing needs. Through a Gensler program, she emphasizes empathy and human connection in design. Arielle’s dedication to uplifting communities positions her as a compassionate force in her field, aligning with Muhammad Ali’s vision of inclusivity, making her an ideal candidate for this campaign.

Cynthia Cherish Malaran

Cynthia Cherish Malaran, also known as DJ CherishTheLuv, is a compelling candidate for the Face of Compassion photoshoot. As a (MTV, Netflix) DJ, producer, and ordained minister, she has dedicated herself to spreading joy and healing through music. A breast cancer survivor, Malaran continued to DJ throughout her treatment, even performing for fellow patients at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, embodying resilience and compassion. She has also taught DJing to young girls at the Lower Eastside Girls Club and brought music into hospice settings, providing comfort to terminally ill patients. Her initiatives highlight the transformative power of music and underscore her commitment to uplifting others through compassionate action.

Edafe Okporo

Originally from Nigeria, Okporo is a refugee, LGBTQ+ advocate, and founder of the RDJ Refugee Shelter in New York. He dedicates his life to helping other LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees find safety and community, embodying compassion and resilience in his work with vulnerable populations.

Anastasia Somoza

Anastasia Somoza is an inspiring advocate for disability rights based in New York City. Born with cerebral palsy and spastic quadriplegia, she has dedicated her life to championing the rights of individuals with disabilities. Somoza gained national attention when she addressed the Democratic National Convention in 2016, sharing her personal experiences and advocating for inclusivity. She currently serves as the New York City Council’s first-ever liaison to the disability community, working to ensure that the voices of disabled individuals are heard and their needs are met. (NYC Government) Her unwavering commitment to promoting empathy, justice, and humanity makes her an exemplary candidate for the Face of Compassion photoshoot.

Rick Ulfik

Rick Ulfik, founder of We, The World, is an exemplary candidate for the Face of Compassion photoshoot. His organization fosters global networks dedicated to peace, justice, and sustainability, exemplifying a deep commitment to compassionate action. Ulfik’s initiatives, such as the annual 11 Days of Global Unity, unite diverse groups to amplify collective efforts for social change. His leadership in promoting nonviolent communication and collaboration highlights the transformative power of compassion in building a more just and caring world.

Harry Uvegi

Founder of Brand Earth and Steward of the Mannahatta Project, Harry Uvegi is known for his innovative approaches that inspire collective action and environmental stewardship.

Valerie Weisler

Valerie Weisler, founder of The Validation Project, is a compelling candidate for the Face of Compassion photoshoot. At 14, after experiencing bullying, she initiated this global youth empowerment organization to help teens transform their passions into social change. The project has reached over 6,000 teenagers in 105 countries, providing mentorship and resources to combat bullying and promote kindness. Weisler’s dedication to fostering empathy and validation among young people exemplifies compassion in action. Her story highlights the impact of turning personal challenges into movements that inspire and uplift others

Do you want to become a Face of Compassion and showcase your commitment to compassion? Take a picture and tag Muhammad Ali Center social media with #faceofcompassion – you may end up on our Face of Compassion wall below!