Mind Over Cancer Initiative's Executive Board of Directors

Vikram Vemuri: Founder & Executive Director (CEO)

Vikram Vemuri founded the Mind Over Cancer Initiative (MOCI) as a high school freshman after a close family member was diagnosed with cancer. Supporting a loved one through treatment and recovery gave him firsthand insight into the emotional challenges cancer creates for patients, families, and caregivers. Recognizing that mental health is often overlooked in cancer care, he launched MOCI to advocate for integrating emotional support throughout the cancer journey through resources, community-building, and messages of hope.

Beyond MOCI, Vikram conducts youth mental health research at Stanford University's REACH Lab and serves as a leader in his school's Wellness Ambassadors Program, promoting evidence-based approaches to emotional well-being. His commitment to mental health advocacy has been recognized through his selection as a California State Finalist in the HOSA Mental Health Promotion & Emotional Wellbeing Challenge and his nomination for Dublin's 2025 Young Citizen of the Year.

Vikram is also the founding Vice President of Best Buddies, where he fosters inclusion for students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities, and leads his school's National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) chapter, encouraging stem cell and bone marrow donor registration to help blood cancer patients find lifesaving matches. He serves as Student Body Secretary, School Site Council Representative, and an Alternate Student Board Member on the DUSD Board of Trustees. Across these roles, Vikram is committed to using leadership, service, and advocacy to strengthen his community and improve the lives of others.

Éléna Brassard: Vice President (COO)

Éléna Brassard serves as the Vice President of MOCI, where she brings curiosity, dedication, and a genuine passion for understanding the human mind and body. With a strong interest in biology, she loves exploring how the brain and body function and applying that knowledge to support health and well-being initiatives. Her enthusiasm for science is matched by her commitment to outreach and education, making her a thoughtful and engaged leader within the organization.

Beyond her role at MOCI, Éléna maintains an active lifestyle through school sports, including cross country, which help her build discipline, resilience, and teamwork skills. She is also deeply involved in youth-led health initiatives, such as Dublin Youth4Neuro and the Student Health Advocate Club at Emerald High, where she channels her curiosity and leadership into projects that benefit her community and inspire others.

Outside of academics, sports, and volunteer work, Éléna enjoys spending time with her beloved cat, Otto, and exploring new hobbies that fuel her creativity and personal growth. Her passion for science, community engagement, and well-being make her a valued and inspiring member of the MOCI team.

Aashi Sharma: Director of Outreach

Aashi serves as MOCI’s Outreach Director, where she brings together her passion for mental health advocacy with a keen interest in the medical field. As a student in her school’s Biomedical Academy and an active member of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), she is dedicated to exploring healthcare from both a scientific and human-centered perspective. Through her role at MOCI, Aashi works to connect with the community, raise awareness about mental health and cancer, and create meaningful initiatives that support individuals and families impacted by these challenges.

Beyond MOCI, Aashi is an engaged and active member of the Dublin Mayor’s Council, where she advocates for impactful climate policy, civic engagement, and community programs that empower youth. She thrives on building connections, fostering dialogue, and creating opportunities for collaboration with people from all walks of life.

In her personal time, Aashi enjoys immersing herself in music, particularly listening to The Weeknd, and she loves striking up conversations with new people, learning from their perspectives, and forming meaningful relationships. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment to service make her a dynamic and inspiring leader within MOCI and her broader community.

Avika Vyawahare: Secretary

Avika Vyawahare is MOCI's Secretary and a dedicated student leader committed to advancing mental health awareness and community well-being. She is passionate about reducing stigma surrounding mental health and fostering open, meaningful conversations both through her work with MOCI and within the broader community.

Avika has held several leadership positions, including serving as the Class of 2028 Freshman Vice President, and has been a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. She is actively involved in volunteer initiatives and finds fulfillment in supporting others through service. With a strong interest in biology and medicine, she looks forward to further exploring these fields in the future.

Beyond academics and advocacy, Avika enjoys baking, playing golf, and practicing Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance that remains an important part of her life and cultural heritage.

Anish Jaladi: Treasurer (CFO)

Anish Jaladi is MOCI's Treasurer and a driven student leader committed to supporting mental health advocacy through thoughtful financial stewardship. He believes that sustainable, well-managed organizations are the backbone of meaningful community impact, and he is eager to bring that mindset to MOCI's mission.

Anish brings hands-on experience across finance, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leadership. He currently serves as CEO of Restore LA, a 501(c)(3) focused on humanitarian innovation, and is a co-founder of Eco-nomics. He is also interning at a consulting firm, where he has sharpened his analytical and organizational skills. As incoming President of his school's DECA chapter, he has a strong foundation in business strategy and leadership.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Anish is passionate about the intersection of technology and social good, and is actively building solutions that bridge those two worlds. He looks forward to contributing to MOCI's growth and helping the organization make an even greater difference in the lives of those it serves.

Reana Pudota: Public Relations Manager (CMO)

Reana is MOCI’s Publicist, bringing enthusiasm, creativity, and a deep commitment to raising awareness about mental health and cancer. She is passionate about using her voice to shed light on topics that are often overlooked and is excited to help educate and inspire others through her role. Her dedication to advocacy stems from a genuine desire to support individuals and families affected by these challenges.

In addition to her work with MOCI, Reana has played in Orchestra for seven years, demonstrating her long-term commitment to the arts and her ability to balance discipline with creativity. She also works as an employee at American Swim Academy, where she contributes to a team environment and supports swimmers of all ages.

Outside of her academic and extracurricular responsibilities, Reana enjoys relaxing and having fun in a variety of ways. She loves watching TV, going shopping, and trying new activities whenever she gets the chance. Her openness, positivity, and eagerness to explore new experiences make her a vibrant and valued member of the MOCI team.

Maanya Balupari: Director of Advocacy

Maanya is the Director of Advocacy for MOCI, where she brings a strong sense of purpose, compassion, and leadership to the team. A 10th grader at Emerald High School, she has a deep interest in psychology and is especially fascinated by how the brain works, how people think, and the ways mental health shapes everyday life. Her passion for understanding the human mind fuels her dedication to advocating for greater awareness, empathy, and support for individuals affected by cancer and mental health challenges.

In addition to her role at MOCI, Maanya is an intern for Child Mind Institute's Youth Mental Health Academy, where she contributes to important youth mental health initiatives and gains hands-on experience in community advocacy and education. She is also a varsity badminton captain, demonstrating her commitment to hard work, discipline, and teamwork both on and off the court.

Maanya approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Her drive to learn, lead, and uplift others makes her an inspiring and highly valued member of the MOCI board.