saesha Sharda

Advocacy and Community Engagement

Undergraduate Street Medicine Outreach

Stitches for the Streets

As the Advocacy Chair for USMO at Berkeley, I’m always looking for ways to make healthcare feel a little more human. Recently, I decided to trade my stethoscope for a sewing machine to launch a project close to my heart: crafting warmth for our unhoused neighbors. I spearheaded an initiative to sew and distribute 100 blankets to the homeless and sick in our community, proving that advocacy doesn’t always have to happen behind a podium—sometimes, it happens one stitch at a time. For me, these blankets are more than just fabric; they’re a “prescribed” bit of comfort for those navigating the hardest conditions, and a reminder that medicine is just as much about heart and handiwork as it is about science.

Innocent World Charitable Society

Massoom Duniya is a dedicated school in Delhi, India, that focuses on supporting neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, and other developmental differences. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment for these children to learn, grow, and thrive—opportunities they might not otherwise have access to. With my background in neurodiversity advocacy, I am passionate about contributing to their mission. I visit Massoom Duniya to volunteer by teaching the students, engaging with them in meaningful activities, and supporting the school by donating essential items such as food and clothing. This experience has been incredibly fulfilling and aligns with my commitment to fostering inclusion and understanding.

Make a Difference and Support the Cause

American Red Cross at Cal

As a member of the American Red Cross at UC Berkeley, I am committed to supporting the organization’s mission of providing relief and assistance during emergencies. Through this involvement, I actively participate in community service projects, blood drives, and disaster response efforts, working to make a positive impact on local communities. My role allows me to contribute to humanitarian work and support the Red Cross in its ongoing efforts to save lives and improve resilience in the face of crises.