Meet Our Team
Nick Ellis, MD
Emergency Medicine Physician
MEDLIFE Executive Director & Founder
Nick founded MEDLIFE in 2004 after witnessing the power of grassroots organizations while working in resource-poor communities in Panama, Peru, and Ecuador. These experiences shaped his commitment to addressing the root causes of poverty through sustainable access to healthcare, education, and safe housing, alongside empowered communities and a student-led movement.
Nick earned his Medical Doctorate from Dartmouth Medical School and completed his Emergency Medicine residency at Dartmouth. He currently lives in Lima, Peru with his family, working from MEDLIFE’s international headquarters, and travels monthly to the U.S. to practice emergency medicine.
Abril Salinas
Audiovisual Content Creator
I graduated in Communication Sciences with a focus on audiovisual communication. Passionate about learning languages and creating new ways to convey messages, I’m excited to be part of MEDLIFE, where I align my professional skills with my personal purpose.
Adriana Calle
Dentist
Born in Lima, Peru. Adriana studied dentistry at the University of San Martin de Porres (Peru), where she developed a strong interest in oral health prevention and treatment. She enjoys reading, traveling, and learning new languages.
Alberto Paredes
Director of MEDLIFE Lima
Director of Finances for Field Offices
MEDLIFE’s first employee in Peru, Alberto has worked in the logistics of the Service Learning Trips since day one. He ensures the smooth operation of Mobile Clinics in Lima and Cusco, providing educational and meaningful experiences for participants.
Alejandro Beoutis
MED International Team Lead
Alejandro, born in the U.S. and raised in Lima, studied Political Science and Latin American studies at Rutgers University. He’s passionate about international cooperation and social issues and works with MEDLIFE to support community development in Peru.
Alesandra Zegarra
MED International Chapter Coach
Alessandra, from Lima, Peru, holds a degree in Hospitality Management. With five years in customer service, she’s excited to contribute to MEDLIFE’s mission of empowering communities and fostering sustainable impact.
Alonso Avalo
Data Solutions Analyst
Alonso is from Lima, Peru. He studied at Universidad De Lima and has extensive experience developing IT solutions for different fields. He is very passionate about technology and learning from others. He is very much looking forward to this new opportunity at MEDLIFE.
Ana Rivera
MED Programs & Operations Associate
I’m Ana Rivera from Costa Rica, with 50% Mexican heritage, passionate about wellness and sustainability. With a background in Human Nutrition and experience in NGOs focused on peace education, I specialize in project management and sustainable business.
Ana Lucia Aponte
Junior Operations Associate
I’m Ana Lucia Aponte from Lima, Peru, and a graduate in Industrial Engineering. With experience in problem-solving and adaptability, I’m passionate about helping others, traveling, and embracing new cultures as opportunities for growth.
Anais Beoutis
Outreach & Content Support
Anais, from Lima, Peru, has a degree in Audiovisual Communication and Interactive Media. Passionate about volunteering, she has worked with nonprofit organizations like Kurame and is excited to contribute to MEDLIFE’s mission to support communities.
Andrea Soldevilla
Marketing and Sales Associate
Andrea, from Lima, Peru, is a graduate in Communication and Advertising with experience in digital marketing. Passionate about impactful communication, she’s excited to help reduce inequalities through MEDLIFE’s strategies.
Amparo Ulloa
Lima Office Manager
Amparo is a long-time supporter of MEDLIFE and wears many hats as a full-time employee with the organization. In addition to assisting in administrative duties, Amparo brightens the office with a positive, can-do spirit and boundless energy.
Astrid Figueroa
Data Solutions Jr. Analyst
From Cusco, Peru, Astrid is studying computer science. Involved in volunteering since childhood, she’s excited to join MEDLIFE, contributing to social assistance in health, education, and development, and promoting youth-driven solutions for a better world.
Camila Gutierrez
Expansion Associate
Camila, from Lima, Peru, holds a degree in International Business and has professional experience in Marketing and Sales. Passionate about sustainability, she actively volunteers with NGOs and looks forward to contributing to MEDLIFE’s impactful work.
Carlos Benavides
Director of Community Relations
Carlos, from Lima, Peru, has over 20 years of experience in community development. He oversees MEDLIFE’s projects and clinics in Lima, working to strengthen relationships and build stronger, more sustainable connections with local communities.
Carmen Umeres
MEDLIFE Cusco Nurse
Born in Quillabamba, Cusco, Carmen studied Nursing and has extensive experience in public and private healthcare. She supports MEDLIFE’s medical work, helping bring essential services to remote communities across the Cusco region.
Carolina Espin
Sales Setter
Born in Ecuador, passionate about sustainability and creativity. Works on environmental projects, including those in the Galápagos and Quito. Enjoys sketching and rock climbing while promoting empathy and environmental awareness through visual storytelling.
Cielo Paredes
Social Media Manager
From Lima, Peru, passionate about creativity and making a positive impact. Studied Advertising and Communications. Excited to contribute to MEDLIFE’s mission, helping others and finding solutions to make the world a better place.
Claudia Huaman
Audiovisual Content Creator
María Claudia Huamán is a Communication and Advertising student passionate about storytelling, marketing, and social impact. She has volunteered with the United Nations and is committed to using communication as a tool for positive change.
Daniela Montalvo
Sales Setter
Daniela Montalvo Tinajero holds a Master of Public Service and a background in International Relations. With experience in research and evaluation, she is excited to apply her skills to community-focused work at MEDLIFE.
Danixa Manosalva
Brand & Creative Team Lead
Danixa, from Chepén, studied Arts and Graphic Design for Business. She brings creativity, responsibility, and strong design skills to MEDLIFE, supporting the organization’s mission through visual storytelling and branding.
David Berrocal
Revenue Operations Specialist
Since childhood, I’ve been driven to help others. At MEDLIFE, I combine my passion for technology, entrepreneurship, and service to support growth, innovation, and meaningful solutions that strengthen our work alongside communities.
David Solorzano
Lead Acquisition Team Leader & Paid Ads Specialist
David is a digital marketing professional from Lima with a background in communication. He brings experience in online strategy, analytics, and promotion, supporting MEDLIFE’s growth through creative, data-driven digital campaigns.
Enya Solmaz
Sales Setter
Born in Turkey and raised in Germany, I’ve worked with NGOs across multiple regions. My focus is youth empowerment, environmental conservation, and community development, learning from diverse cultures while supporting inclusive, people-centered initiatives.
Jadyra Choque
Data Solutions Intern
Jadyra is a Computer Science student from Cusco with interests in AI, data analysis, and social impact technology. She is passionate about learning, innovation, and applying science and empathy to create solutions for community needs.
Franz Rebaza
Data Solutions Jr. Analyst
Franz was born and raised in Lima, Peru, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from UPC. He enjoys using his skills to support others and values working in spaces that combine professional growth with social purpose.
Fresia Soria
Volunteer Coordinator
Fresia is from Lima, Peru, and holds a degree in Business Management from UPC. She has lived in the U.S. and U.K., enjoys learning about new cultures, and brings a global perspective shaped by travel and volunteer experience.
Gabriela Cavero
Trips and Educational Programs Coordinator
Gabriela was born in Lima and grew up in France. She studied communications and journalism, worked in international tourism, and brings a diverse background in storytelling, travel, and education to support MEDLIFE’s programs.
Giancarlo Ramirez
Sales Setter
Giancarlo is from Ica and currently lives in Lima. He holds a degree in Political Science and Government and has experience in sales, HR, and international volunteering. He is passionate about social development and community engagement.
Heidy Aspilcueta
Director of MEDLIFE Cusco
Born in Cusco, Peru, Heidy holds a degree in Computer Engineering and an MBA in Finance. She has over ten years of experience organizing travel, volunteer, and educational programs for international participants across Peru and Latin America.
Helen Gomez
MEDLIFE Field Nurse
Helen is a registered nurse with experience in private healthcare centers. She currently supports Mobile Clinics and patient follow-up through MED PROGRAMS, combining clinical expertise with a strong commitment to community service and patient-centered care.
Isabella Albarran
Expansion Associate
Born in Lima, Isabella studied International Development in the UK and has experience in social research and customer service across nonprofit, government, and higher education sectors. She is passionate about education, social impact, and community development.
Jennifer Aranguren
MEDLIFE Expansion Team Lead
Jennifer has a background in hospitality management and eight years of experience in tourism. She is passionate about customer experience, sustainability, and social responsibility, and enjoys contributing to meaningful impact while supporting MEDLIFE’s expansion efforts.
Jennifer Ccasani
MEDLIFE Lima Field Nurse
Jennifer is a field nurse in Lima who supports Mobile Clinics alongside the MEDLIFE field team. With prior experience in private healthcare, she is committed to community-based care and serving patients close to home.
Jhon Mejia
Customer Service Team Lead
Jhon has nearly eight years of experience in tourism and hospitality. At MEDLIFE, he focuses on delivering strong customer experiences while supporting volunteers and building meaningful connections across cultures.
Jorge Vidal
Administration
Jorge is a dentist who supports MEDLIFE as both a clinical provider and administrator. He leads dental care on Mobile Clinics and oversees operations at the MED Dental clinic in Miraflores.
Kiomi Matsukawa
Data Solutions Team Lead
Kiomi is an engineer and data professional based in Lima. After first joining MEDLIFE as a trip leader, she now supports data systems and team growth, motivated by the organization’s impact on communities.
Lorena Muñoz
High School/CEGEP Division Chapter Coach
Born and raised in Lima, Lorena studied International Development in the UK. She is passionate about volunteering, cultural exchange, and supporting students through global education experiences with MEDLIFE.
Maria Chavez
MEDLIFE Ecuador Nurse
Born and raised in Cebadas, Ecuador, María is a bilingual Quechua-Spanish nurse. She has worked with MEDLIFE since 2007, coordinating Mobile Clinics and supporting patient follow-ups in partner communities.
Maria Estevez
Executive Assistant
María is a bilingual professional from Bogotá with a background in Social Communication and Journalism. She brings experience in customer success and tech support, driven by a passion for social impact and access to opportunities.
Maria Fernanda Ramirez
Expansion Associate
Maria Fernanda holds a degree in Hotel Management and brings a global perspective shaped by travel. Inspired by MEDLIFE’s impact, she supports expansion efforts focused on community engagement and sustainable growth.
Maria Gracia Chingel
SEO Specialist
Gracia is from Piura, Peru, with a background in Business Management and digital marketing. She specializes in SEO and has worked with education and technology organizations, using her skills to support meaningful, impact-driven projects.
Marilia Mayhuire
Volunteer Support Junior
Marilia is from Andahuaylas, Peru, and holds a degree in Translation and Interpretation. Passionate about language and culture, she works to build understanding across communities through clear communication and meaningful connections.
Martha Chicaiza
Director of MEDLIFE Ecuador
Martha has been part of MEDLIFE Ecuador since 2002. She coordinates Mobile Clinics, community development projects, patient follow-ups, and intern support, playing a key role in strengthening long-term healthcare access.
Martha Kennedy
High School Division Team Lead
Martha studied Global Development in Canada and has volunteered across multiple regions worldwide. She is passionate about community organizing, youth mentorship, and sustainable development, bringing a global perspective to MEDLIFE’s mission.
Mauricio Fernandez
Sales Setter
With experience in patient relations and digital marketing, she specializes in building trust, improving client satisfaction, and strengthening communication through targeted campaigns and proactive account management.
Mary Bourke
Copywriter
Born and raised in Canada, Mary holds a degree in Digital Media and Creative Writing. She supports MEDLIFE’s marketing efforts remotely, combining storytelling and social justice to connect global audiences with community impact.
Mhairi Macleod
Sales Setter
Originally from the UK, Mhairi studied Spanish and Mandarin and has worked with nonprofits in Northern Peru. Passionate about ethical development, she focuses on sustainable initiatives that create meaningful, community-centered social impact.
Nadia Rios
Audiovisual Content Creator
Born in Lima, Nadia holds a degree in audiovisual communication. She brings experience in video, digital design, and storytelling, using empathetic communication to support social change across educational and cultural sectors.
Nayhua Gómez
Operations Assistant
Nayhua is a Business Administration graduate from Universidad Andina del Cusco. Passionate about Andean culture and youth education, she has led financial education workshops and enjoys music, dance, and community engagement.
Neema Lyimo
Director of MEDLIFE Tanzania
Neema holds a B.S. in Human Nutrition and an MPH. She joined MEDLIFE in 2014 and has since played a key role in supporting community development initiatives and organizational growth in Tanzania.
Petrina Diamantakos
Outreach & Content Support
Petrina holds a degree in Health Sciences and discovered her passion for global health through international exchange. She supports MEDLIFE’s outreach and content efforts, contributing to community-centered health and development initiatives.
Ricardo Soltero
Expansion Associate
Ricardo holds a degree in Business Administration and has six years of experience with MEDLIFE as a Trip Leader. Now part of the Expansion Team, he is passionate about growing community partnerships and creating meaningful impact through service learning.
Pedro Mosquera
Expansion Associate
Pedro is a communicator specializing in sustainability, identity, and strategic storytelling. He has worked on environmental, cultural, and community-driven projects, collaborating with academic institutions and local organizations to foster engagement and purposeful communication.
Ricardo Ccasani
Director of MED Programs Lima
Ricardo joined MEDLIFE during the construction of community infrastructure projects. Drawing on his experience in construction and logistics, he supports cost optimization while continuing to contribute to the development of his community alongside MEDLIFE.
Rodrigo Cortes
Operations Associate
Born and raised in Cusco, Rodrigo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Universidad Andina del Cusco. He has always been in touch with the reality of Peru, learning from books and the experience of his travels and the people he meets. He loves nature, literature, and all types of music.
Rosali Vela
Marketing Team Lead
Rosali joined MEDLIFE in 2012 and holds degrees in Communication Sciences and Audiovisual Communication. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Marketing and Communications for Development, supporting impactful storytelling and strategic marketing initiatives.
Ruby Olortegui
Human Resources
Ruby is from Ancash and studied Psychology in Lima. She is committed to people development, purpose-driven work, and supporting individuals and organizations through responsible leadership and social responsibility.
Sergio Rossi
Talent Development Coordinator
A psychologist from Universidad de Lima with over six years of experience in talent development and customer service. Passionate about helping people grow, build healthy relationships, and apply psychology in practical, human-centered ways.
Sheila Fuertes
Brand & Content Designer
Sheila is a Lima-based graphic designer with experience using design for social impact. She specializes in visual problem-solving and supports MEDLIFE’s mission by creating thoughtful, engaging designs that communicate purpose and change.
Stephanie Melendez
Growth & Engagement Team Lead
Stephanie is a marketing and branding professional with international experience. She specializes in digital growth, communications, and engagement strategies, and is passionate about using her skills to create positive social impact.
Tania Pinto
Finance Assistant
Tania was born in Madre de Dios, Peru, and holds a degree in Accounting and Financial Sciences, along with a technical degree in Tourism Administration. She gained part-time experience advising small enterprises on financial management and is now part of MEDLIFE’s finance team.
Venancia Umeres
MED Programs Assistant Cusco
Originally from Quillabamba, Venancia studied accounting in Cusco and gained experience in clinical sterilization and healthcare support. Introduced to MEDLIFE through her family, she values teamwork and is exploring a future path in nursing.
Victoria Cordova
Sales Setter
Originally from Peru, Victoria studied Global Studies in the United States. She is passionate about cultural exchange, community engagement, and global issues, and enjoys connecting with people through travel, volunteering, and collaborative work.
Yasumy Jallo
Data Solutions Intern
From Cusco, Yasumy studies Computer and Systems Engineering at UNSAAC. Passionate about technology for social impact, she focuses on inclusive solutions and community-based projects that improve quality of life in underserved communities.
Zainab Espinoza
Social Media Manager
Zainab Espinoza is a communicator from Peru passionate about storytelling, audiovisual production, and social impact. She brings creativity and purpose to her work, believing in communication as a tool to connect people and inspire positive change.
Our Executive Board
The mission of the Executive Board is to help families achieve greater freedom from the constraints of poverty, empowering them to live healthier lives. The Executive Board oversees MEDLIFE’s operations domestically and abroad and is fiscally and operationally responsible for MEDLIFE’s Service Learning Trips and MEDLIFE Project Fund projects. The Executive Board also works with student groups to organize volunteer trips, fundraise, build greater support for MEDLIFE, and foster student leadership. The most committed, hard-working, and experienced individuals are invited to sit on the Executive Board. The Executive Board currently consists of five members:
Nick Ellis, MD, MEDLIFE Founder and CEO
Education: International Development Studies (B.A.) at McGill University
Pre-Medical post-baccalaureate, University of Maine
Medicine, Dartmouth Medical School
Juan Camilo Vanegas
Education: Microbiology (B.A.) University of Maine
Jerry Ellis
Education: Counseling (M.S.) Oregon University
MDiv Boston University
Martha Chicaiza
Director of MEDPrograms Latin America
Director of MEDPrograms Ecuador
Carlos Benavides
Director of MEDPrograms Peru
