Adarsh Sharma is a neuroscience graduate passionate about understanding human behavior and the early detection of mental health issues. He works with BCCO in the BRIDGE program, where he helps bridge the gap between families and schools by providing mental health support and advocacy to Bhutanese Nepali families in Central Ohio. His goal is to leverage his knowledge and experience to better the community and create lasting, positive change.

Dilasa Adhikari is a student at the Ohio state university. She and her family sought refuge in the United States in 2008. Sensing a gap in the lack of resources provided for refugees to thrive, as opposed to surviving, in their new communities, she joined NAYMH to help enhance mental health services for this population.

My name is Ankriti Subba and I’m currently a student at Ohio State University. I myself have struggled with mental health problems throughout my life and know of many people that are struggling with or have struggled with mental health problems as well, which is why I took part in NAYMH! I think it's very important to advocate for a healthy brain, and talking about seeking help is the best way!

Diksha Biswa is a former refugee from Nepal who immigrated to the United States in 2009 at the age of 11. After completing her Bachelor's degree from the Rochester’s Institute of Technology in 2020, she went to medical school where she is currently a fourth year student wanting to specialize in psychology. As a member of NAYMH, Diksha hopes to utilize her growing medical knowledge to raise awareness, foster acceptance and advocate for those who are struggling with mental health challenges!

Hello, my name is Rupa Paudel. I am currently attending The Ohio State University and planning to major in a bachelors of pharmaceutical sciences. NAYMH helps me advocate for a cause that I am really passionate about which is mental health. I hope to gain some insight from this organization and help raise awareness regarding mental health issues.

Aarati Chapagai is currently working as an Analyst at JP Morgan Chase & Co. after graduating from The Ohio State University. She is committed to community service, and actively volunteers with the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio demonstrating a dedication to promoting physical and mental health well-being and accessibility advocacy.

Sudarshan Pyakurel, MA, MSW-LSW, is an esteemed member of the Bhutanese Community in Columbus and a former refugee from Bhutan. Serving as the Executive Director of the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio (BCCO), he is a prominent community leader and advocate for social justice. Sudarshan’s passion lies in applied social science. He has co-authored several journal articles and has been actively engaged in community work since he arrived in the US in 2010, focusing on equity, advocacy, and empowerment of refugees and immigrants.

Bidya Kharel is a second year at Capital University, her family immigrated to the U.S. in 2011 when she was 7 years old. Bidya joined the New American Youth Mental Health initiative because she values the importance of mental health and how it impacts the New American/Refugee communities. She was also one of the first five to travel to D.C to the Mental Health America Conference!

My name is Diksha Chapagai and I am a student at Ohio State University, where I am double majoring in Psychology and Criminology. I am actively involved in neuroscience research at the OSU Wexner Medical Center. The research uses neuroimaging to better understand the structural and functional circuitry underlying mental illness and health. I am a part of NAYMH because I want to advocate to raise awareness, fight stigma, and support those struggling with mental health.

My name is Ashlisha sharma, and I am passionate about mental health education. I have experience volunteering with the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio, where I worked on mental health initiatives among refugee communities. I’m eager to contribute to NAYMHC by sharing knowledge and raising awareness on how to address mental health challenges effectively.