Meet Start Lighthouse’s Changemakers: A Look Inside the Young Professionals Council

At Start Lighthouse, our mission is to inspire the next generation of readers—uplifting, empowering, and creating opportunities for children to thrive through the transformative power of literacy. And there is no one better to help champion that effort than the newest generation of changemakers: our Young Professionals Council.

Meet Start Lighthouse’s Young Professionals Council

Start Lighthouse’s Young Professionals Council (YPC) is a vibrant, purpose-driven group of emerging leaders from diverse professional backgrounds, each bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to support and elevate our work. Through their fundraising, community engagement, and event planning efforts, the Council plays a key role in expanding Start Lighthouse’s reach, amplifying our impact, and strengthening our connections throughout New York City.

The Young Professionals Council Show Up and Shine

From helping organize Start Lighthouse’s three- and four-year anniversary events to planning our inaugural Spring Mixer, the Council has been instrumental in creating spaces that celebrate our impact and invite others into our community. 

“We work collaboratively to ensure that every member stays connected and aligned with Start Lighthouse’s mission. The most rewarding moments for me are the days we get to visit the students and spend time in the literacy hubs—it’s truly the heart of our work,” said Samantha Kirsch, Co-Lead of Start Lighthouse’s YPC.

Like Kirsch, many of our Council members began as volunteers. Even as they’ve taken on larger roles within our organization, they remain deeply involved in Start Lighthouse’s everyday programs, offering up their time in our Literacy Hubs and building meaningful connections with our students.

“The YPC is integral to our organization. Each one of these 14 young professionals is a bright light in our community and across New York City. It’s truly a joy to work alongside them and learn from their creativity, ingenuity, and commitment. They’re not only raising the bar for what community leadership and mission driven-work can look like—they are setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with the heart, show up, and use your talents to spark real change,” said Rina Madhani, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Start Lighthouse.

Currently, the Council is focused on preparing for Start Lighthouse’s second annual Spring Mixer, set for the end of April. They’re also playing a key role in planning our five-year anniversary gala.

Join the Council and Help Light the Way to Change

Being a part of the Council is more than just an opportunity to give back—it’s a chance to be a part of a supportive, like-minded community committed to equity, education, and impact. It’s a space where young leaders come together to connect, grow, and drive meaningful change.

“Personally, [the Council has] pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, use my voice more, and really lean into purpose-driven work. Professionally, it’s helped me strengthen my leadership, communication, and event planning skills,” said Yaris Mason, Co-Lead of Start Lighthouse’s YPC. “I’ve learned the power of community, collaboration, and showing up with intention. I’m also deeply inspired by Rina, Sam, and the other YPC members—their passion, vision, and authenticity motivate me to lead with heart and stay rooted in impact.”

Mason’s experience highlights just a few of the ways that being a member of the Council can shape not only your community, but your own personal and professional journey. As Start Lighthouse continues to grow, we’re inviting passionate, forward-thinking leaders to join our Young Professionals Council and help expand our impact.

Whether you’re just beginning your professional journey or looking for a meaningful way to engage with your community, the Young Professionals Council offers a space to lead with purpose and grow alongside others who share your drive for impact.  

If you are interested in becoming part of this vibrant community, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more here.