Our team
The people behind the troops
SparkTroops is youth-powered from top to bottom — built and led by students who believe that anyone can be friends.
Leadership
Sharika Gajjala
Founder & President
Sharika is a sophomore at Princeton University studying neuroscience. She is passionate about supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and creating opportunities for meaningful connection and friendship. Through Spark Troops, she hopes to build a welcoming, inclusive community where children of all abilities feel valued, connected, and a true sense of belonging.
Sania Shah
Director of Programs & Community Engagement
Sania is a recent graduate of Rutgers University with a degree in Psychology. She is passionate about supporting children through educational and recreational experiences and creating opportunities for meaningful connection and friendship. Through Spark Troops, she hopes to help build a welcoming, inclusive community where children of all abilities feel valued, connected, and a true sense of belonging.
Board members
Sharika Gajjala
Sophomore at Princeton University
Bianca Bellacosa
Sophomore at Princeton University
Iyanna Monai
Sophomore at Stony Brook University