Leadership Team

Empowered first-generation American women and single mothers, driven ambition and entrepreneurial spirit, are dedicated to inspiring and uplifting their peers. Their mission is to guide fellow women in discovering and pursuing fulfilling careers, fostering a community of support and success. Together, they create pathways for growth and opportunity, proving that determination knows no.

Lana L Maksosa, PMP, PMI-ACP, OKR, Agile Coach
Strayers University, MIT

With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in leveraging technology to drive positive change and create meaningful impact. As a strategic leader, I bring expertise in program management, outreach, and digital transformation, developing initiatives that empower individuals and organizations to thrive in today’s evolving landscape.
I am deeply committed to empowering women and immigrant youth, helping them gain the skills, resources, and opportunities necessary to achieve rewarding careers and long-term financial stability.
Passionate about innovation and inclusion, I continuously seek to align technology with purpose—building solutions, programs, and partnerships that strengthen communities and create sustainable growth.

Co Founder and CEO

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Nagia Khaldi Kurabi, MS, BA
George Mason University

Nagia Khaldi Kurabi is an accomplished nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience in organizational management, community outreach, and grant development. As Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, she has successfully designed and led programs that expand economic opportunities, bridge the digital divide, and foster inclusive education for underserved communities.
She holds a Master’s degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Human and Women’s Rights from George Mason University. A fluent speaker of both Arabic and English, Nagia leverages her cross-cultural expertise to advance education as a pathway to equality, empowerment, and self-determination.

Co Founder and COO

Board Members

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

Randa Nehlawi

Randa Al-Nahlawi’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and an unshakable belief in the power of education. Born and educated in Syria, Randa graduated from Damascus University’s Faculty of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, a path that demanded discipline, creativity, and a deep love for solving problems. But her passion for helping others understand the world through numbers was stronger than any career blueprint.

After moving to the United States, Randa answered a calling that had always been in her heart: teaching. She earned her Virginia state teaching license and began shaping the minds of middle and high school students, bringing compassion, clarity, and confidence to every classroom she entered.

Today, living in Arizona and serving with Rise & Shine Global Learning Academy, Randa brings her engineering mindset and her educator’s soul to a global community of women and adult learners. She designs lessons that meet students where they are and gently guide them toward where they dream to be.
Randa teaches math — but more importantly, she teaches hope, confidence, and the courage to keep moving forward.

Info@riseshineacademy.org