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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. 

Oil on Canvas

Team Members

Richard Gant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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