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How was EMBOSS Started?
How was EMBOSS Started?
EMBOSS was created to empower middle schoolers to explore science through the lens of service, curiosity, and purpose.
We believe that every young person has the capacity to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of their community. The Ruhi Institute describes the middle school years as entering a special time—a stage when children begin to think more deeply about the world and their role in it. It’s a time full of energy, idealism, and untapped potential.
EMBOSS was born from the desire to support that transformation. We wanted to create a space where scientific education is more than academic—it becomes a path toward service, a way to develop moral qualities like justice, compassion, and truthfulness, and a chance to make meaningful change.
Through fun, interactive lessons that explore everything from the brain to the environment, EMBOSS helps youth not only understand science but apply it in service to others. Whether it’s leading a project that supports the homeless or designing a solution to a local environmental issue, middle schoolers take the lead and are seen as protagonists in their own learning and in the life of their community.
Along with the students natural drive to change the world, learning about different branches of science helps them to obtain a broader knowledge of opportunities in scientific fields which can spark a lasting curiosity that will last until high school and in later careers.
EMBOSS stands for Empowered Minds Benefitting Our Society—and that’s exactly what we hope this project continues to do.
The Team!
The Team!
Founder/Executive Director
Founder/Executive Director
Maya Ayoubzadeh is a high school junior passionate about science, service, and empowering youth. She founded EMBOSS to help middle schoolers explore science through meaningful, hands-on projects rooted in spiritual and community values. Beside her work for EMBOSS, she enjoys reading the Bahai Writings, learning the guitar, podcasting for the Global Impact Council Podcast, and doing fun art and science projects.
Treasurer
Nidhi Nagaraj is a high school student with a deep love for math and meaningful impact. As the Treasurer of EMBOSS, she ensures the program’s resources are managed with care and transparency. With an eye for detail and a heart for service, Nidhi helps EMBOSS stay financially sustainable while promoting its mission of education grounded in community and morality. Outside of EMBOSS, she enjoys coding, playing violin, and listening that blends logic and creativity and fun.
Web Design/Maya's Mentor
Web Design/Maya's Mentor
Jenni Brennan provides web design support for EMBOSS, helping bring the project to life online. They ensure the site is clear, welcoming, and easy for families to navigate as they learn about the program.
Secretary
Aditi Shah is a junior at high school. She is super excited to be a part of the EMBOSS team and to spread knowledge in meaningful ways. In her free time, she enjoys singing, doing calligraphy, and spending time with friends and family.
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