Piece by Piece is thrilled to welcome two new team members through the AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer program! Meet Alejandro Esquivel, who joins us as our Marketing Coordinator, and Sumeya Abdulkarim, stepping in as Program Coordinator.
Alejandro, a Southeast Los Angeles native from Cudahy, brings a heartfelt commitment to servant leadership, community empowerment, and expanding economic opportunity. With a background in event hosting, social media awareness, and environmental service—gained from co-founding LEO Club in high school and years of service through Alpha Phi Omega at UC Merced—Alejandro is dedicated to building impactful partnerships, creating new revenue streams, and connecting businesses and organizations to our mission at Piece by Piece.
Sumeya, born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, recently earned her bachelor’s in psychology from UCLA, including conducting mental health research at the University of Melbourne. Her passion for mental health advocacy and social justice shines through not only in her academic work, but in her volunteerism with transformative programs like the Prison Education Program. Sumeya’s art studio internship brought firsthand experience in the healing power of creativity, and in her spare time she shares her love of crocheting and volunteering at her local cat shelter.
As Marketing Coordinator, Alejandro will focus on supporting sustainable growth through B2B marketing, fostering corporate partnerships, and expanding sales, a role driven by his passion for service and building relationships that spark economic opportunity. Sumeya, as Program Coordinator, is excited to work with our artist community, contribute to workshops, and implement innovative systems that use participant feedback to improve class experiences and strengthen our peer mentorship approach.
Alejandro’s two years of inside sales experience and his dedication to service uniquely position him to support our mission in his role with AmeriCorps VISTA and Piece by Piece. Sumeya is equally thrilled to give back to her city, champion civic engagement, and nurture a space of healing and creativity for all participants.
We’re deeply excited to have Alejandro and Sumeya join our team. To explore partnerships and community collaborations, connect with Alejandro If you have ideas or feedback about Piece by Piece programs, reach out to Sumeya . Let’s welcome them as they help us build a brighter, more inclusive arts community!
