About Us
Dealing with trauma can be one of the most challenging things to experience, speak about, and heal from. Our dedicated team has put together a variety of artistic healing methods to help you on your journey to heal from past experiences.
Team Members
Richard Gant
Co-Founder
Richard is an American actor and co-founder of The PanAfricanist, a digital solutions company focused on designing and developing cultural connectivity infrastructures. He was presented with the Key to the City of Oakland, California by Mayor Jerry Brown. Richard is a proud co-founder of 8BV, passionate about the use of storytelling to promote healing.
Dr. Lejeune Lockett
Chief Research Officer,
Co-Founder
Lejeune is the Director of the Office of International Affairs at Charles Drew University, overseeing numerous global humanitarian initiatives. Lejeune leads and guides all of 8BV's research initiatives and objectives, ensuring alignment across all programs and workshops, on a local and global scale.
Sana Abbasi
President, Co-Founder
Sana leads the "Zambia Rise Up" initiative to improve HIV access in Africa, as part of the Office of International Affairs at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. Passionate about the intersection of arts/healing and technology, Sana is the glue of 8BV's vision and mission, and brings all of the 8 billion voices together to end GBV.
Maria Rum-Aharonian
Chief Executive Officer,
Director of Talent Acquisition
Maria is a talent acquisition specialist who has taken on the role of Chief Executive Officer for her commitment and vision for 8BV. She is responsible for all of 8BV's hiring, volunteer management, people and culture needs, policies, and works cross-functionally overseeing many of our contractual relations, locally and internationally.
Dr. Anoop Menon
Chief Technology Officer,
Co-Founder
Anoop is the Co-founder and CEO of Eisengard AI. He completed his doctoral studies in Strategy at the Harvard Business School. Dedicated to leveraging his cutting edge AI technology for the greater good, Anoop leads all of 8BV's technology and AI development, including data and privacy.
Vanessa Baclig
Wellness Director
Vanessa is a dedicated wellness expert with over 10 years of experience in breathwork and Reiki healing. Vanessa has made it her mission to guide individuals on their journey to overcome generational wounds, fears, and self-imposed limitations, centering on deep emotional and spiritual healing.
Jeff Trueman
Chief Financial Officer,
Co-Founder
Jeff is the Head of Growth at Eisengard AI, and an experienced investor in tech and impact. From his time in venture capital and private equity, Jeff is responsible for 8BV's financial and operational efficiency. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys travelling with his family.
Brandon Ramirez
Art Director
Brandon believes in the power of creativity to inspire change. Passionate about helping others unlock their creative potential. Brandon uses his artistic talents to make a meaningful impact in the world and his work is rooted in the belief that art is not just a form of expression but a powerful tool for healing and transformation.