Meet Our Team
Sumaiya Ahmed Sheikh
Executive Director
Sumaiya Ahmed Sheikh has a rich background in New American communities, political strategy, marketing & communications, and civic engagement. Prior to joining Kalasho Education & Youth Services as CEO, she served as the Head of Engagement for Appointments for the Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Sumaiya serves on the National Advisory Council of the AAPI Victory Fund, and as an advisor to Emgage. Other prior roles included Executive Director of the Oakland County Democratic Party, Director of Michigan’s Campus Vote Project, Communications Director of Emgage, and Executive Director of Michigan Community Council where she consistently championed causes that uplift communities.
Email: sumaiya@kalasho.org
Sara Merditaj
Executive Assistant
My name is Sara Merditaj, and I’m the Executive Assistant at Kalasho Education & Youth Services. I’m truly grateful to work at MINDgarden — a space filled with calming energy and purpose. When I need peace, I often retreat to the Cherry Blossom Library.
In 2024, I started a book club focused on self-care, healing, and mental health. Coming from an Albanian immigrant family where mental health was often stigmatized, these books have helped process generational trauma and better understand my past. One that deeply resonated with me was You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay. Her quote, “You’re not a helpless victim of your own thoughts but rather a master of your own mind,” stays with me every day.
Email: saramerditaj@kalasho.org
Erica Gaston, LMSW
Clinical Social Worker
My name is Erica Gaston. I am a Social Worker here at Kalasho Education & Youth Services.
Walking into MINDgarden for my interview, I was immediately overcome with emotion; I wanted to cry. The beauty of the facility moved me deeply. Marginalized populations usually do not get an opportunity to experience healing in such a lovely environment. Before my interview, I saw the philosophy of MINDgarden stated: “By weaving together the wisdom of traditional healing and the precision of evidence-based methods, we ensure that each child embarks on a well-rounded journey toward healing and growth.” I knew the organization aligned with my personal philosophy of helping children heal.
Email: ericagaston@kalasho.org
Melissa Schrieber, CTRS
Clinical Recreational Therapist
My name is Melissa Schreiber. I am a Recreational Therapist here at Kalasho Education & Youth Services.
I’ve always believed that meaningful work starts with connection. It’s about understanding, supporting, and helping people grow—not just in their skills, but in their sense of purpose. That’s what drew me to MINDgarden, and it’s why I’m so passionate about what we do here.
When I first started, I was inspired by our goal of creating spaces where kids can feel safe, valued, and empowered to share their ideas. In a world that often feels chaotic and disconnected, MINDgarden feels like a sanctuary where children can truly thrive.
Email: melissaschreiber@kalasho.org
Christine Glasper, LPC
Counselor
Marhaba! My name is Christine Glasper. I have been a school counselor for 15 years, a private therapist for 9 years and an administrator for 8 years. I am a wife and a mother of 3 beautiful kids. A counselor deeply impacted my life in middle school and my love for working with school age kiddos and young adults was born. Over time that has developed into a drive to open doors of opportunity for my students, to provide a safe space to explore oneself and make life improvements to my clients, and to support teachers, parents and the community at large in our collective efforts to make the world a better place.
I am a huge believer in “teamwork makes the dream work”, “be[ing] the change you wish to see”, the Serenity prayer and the golden rule.
Email: info@kalasho.org
Sabika Sheikh, LLPC
Counseling Psychology Therapist
My name is Sabika Sheikh. I am a Counseling Psychology Therapist, offering mental health counseling services at Kalasho Education & Youth services.
I’ve always believed that healing isn't just about talking through challenges, it’s also about finding joy, connection, and moments of lightness, even during difficult times. Over the years, working with clients facing cancer, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship struggles, and children navigating big emotions, I’ve seen how powerful recreational activities can be in the healing process.
Email: info@kalasho.org