Global Ambassadors Class of 2025
Best Buddies Ambassadors is a program that provides training for participants with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in areas of speech writing, public speaking, and self-advocacy. Ambassadors develop the skills to professionally share their life stories, promote Best Buddies programs, network, and most importantly, advocate. The Ambassadors program prepares people to become active agents of change and informed, engaging advocates. A small group of ambassadors prove themselves to be effective, eloquent speakers for the Best Buddies mission and role models within the disability rights movement are asked to serve as Global Ambassadors for the organization.
Best Buddies proudly highlights some of the participants who have achieved this prestigious level.
Matthew Von Der Ahe
California
Matthew Von Der Ahe is an actor known for his dynamic performances across film and television. He is best recognized for his role as Craig in the film Champions. His additional film credits include The Secret Lives of Dorks, Code Black, Weeds, and more. Matthew has also lent his voice to animated roles, including Jasper in Disney’s Team Chocolate and Benny in Netflix’s Familia.
He is currently preparing for his next major role in the independent film Wish Watch, set for release late next year, and is also slated to appear in Champions II. Matthew also has an exciting television project in development.
Outside of acting, Matthew is a gifted performer with the All-Star Dance Team from Straight Up Abilities. A passionate musician, he plays percussion in a local band and channels his creativity into artwork for Doing My Part, his card company that donates proceeds to charitable causes.
Offscreen, Matthew is a public speaker and proud global ambassador for Best Buddies International. Using his voice and platform, he champions inclusion and advocates for a world where acceptance and belonging are the norm. He recently spoke at Best Buddies Challenge events in California and Hyannis Port.
Kiontis Gallion
Wisconsin
Kiontis Gallion, also known as Kid Autistic, is a 24-year-old Wisconsin native with a passion for advocacy and community service. Diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of four, Kiontis has dedicated his life to breaking down barriers and empowering others on the autism spectrum.
His journey began at just 16 when he joined Best Buddies at West Allis Central High School. Over time, his involvement grew, and by his senior year, he proudly served as chapter president, leading initiatives to create more inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities.
In addition to his ongoing work with Best Buddies, Kiontis is a passionate autism advocate, motivational speaker, and community ambassador. He recently joined the Best Buddies Citizens program, where he continues to champion for the inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in his local community.
Professionally, Kiontis is special education teacher at Collective Montessori, where he supports young learners in reaching their full potential. He also serves as a daycare teacher at A Mother’s Heart Learning Center, further contributing to the growth and development of children in his community.
Kiontis also volunteers as a speech coach, where he mentors students and helps them build confidence in public speaking. This fall, he was honored to be selected for the Best Buddies Young Leaders Council, a prestigious position that allows him to further influence positive change within the organization. Kiontis has also been a prominent voice in raising awareness about autism, having appeared on several news outlets, including Fox 6 News, Spectrum News, and TMJ4 News, where he has shared his personal experiences and insights into the autism spectrum.
In 2024, Kiontis was selected as one of the speakers at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference in Indiana, a major milestone in his journey as a public speaker and advocate. His message resonates with audiences, and he is excited about his role as a Best Buddies Champion, continuing to inspire others and raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of ability.
Through his work, Kiontis Gallion is making a lasting impact on his community and the lives of those around him, and he remains a tireless advocate for individuals with autism and other disabilities.
Claire Toman
Illinois
Originally from Tallahassee, Florida, Claire Toman now resides in Chicago, Illinois. She began her Best Buddies journey at Leon High School and later served as a Buddy Director at Florida State University, where she further developed her leadership skills.
Over the past eight years, Claire has been actively involved in several Best Buddies programs, including Friendship, Citizens, Jobs, and Ambassadors. She has also served as a Champion of the Year candidate and interned with Best Buddies in Illinois.
Currently working at Accenture, Claire was honored as the 2024 Jobs Participant of the Year and was featured at the Best Buddies Champion of the Year Gala in Chicago. She has spoken at numerous events, sharing her personal journey and advocating for inclusion.
In addition to her professional and advocacy work, Claire creates disability awareness videos on topics such as living independently, Down syndrome awareness, and how to support the Best Buddies mission.
Fran Sheinberg
Texas
Frannie Sheinberg, also known as Flava Fran, is a vibrant force in her community and a passionate advocate for inclusion. A talented rapper with a growing platform, Fran spreads messages of love, acceptance, and unity to over 100,000 followers on TikTok.
Fran joined Best Buddies in 2020 through the Jobs program, where she landed her dream job working at a local preschool. Her passion, creativity, and care for children quickly made her an essential part of the teaching team. In recognition of her impact, she was named Best Buddies Employee of the Year in 2023. Whether she’s leading art projects, reading stories, or organizing games, Fran brings joy and energy to every classroom she enters.
Her commitment to community extends beyond the workplace. Fran played a key role in launching the first Best Buddies Friendship chapter in her area and continues to be a driving force for inclusion. Saving every paycheck, she is working toward her dream of building a shelter for people experiencing homelessness—proof of her unwavering compassion and purpose.
A survivor of abuse, Fran openly shares how her past struggles have shaped her strength, optimism, and ability to find joy in life’s smallest moments. Through her story, she hopes to inspire others to love themselves, find happiness, and embrace inclusion in all its forms.
Thanks to her passion, charisma, and confidence on camera, Fran was selected to star in a national television commercial for Jersey Mike’s Subs, promoting a fundraising campaign benefiting Best Buddies. The commercial aired in prime time for two consecutive years, significantly raising awareness and support for the organization.
Beyond her music and advocacy, Fran enjoys swimming, horseback riding, and collecting antiques. When she’s not working, she often travels the country, speaking at events, schools, and workplaces to share her journey and inspire others.
Frannie Sheinberg is a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for a more inclusive world—an unstoppable force whose impact continues to grow.
Zara Jackson
Washington, DC
Zara Jackson is from Washington, D.C. and first got involved with Best Buddies by joining her school’s Promoter chapter. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she won the “State Director for a Day” raffle prize at the 2023 VA & DC Best Buddies Homecoming Dance. That unique experience, which included sitting in on meetings and learning firsthand about the organization’s impactful programs, inspired her to deepen her involvement and become an advocate for inclusion.
Since then, Zara has taken on several leadership roles. She currently serves on her chapter’s executive team and participated in a school-wide panel focused on disability awareness and inclusion. In addition, she is an active member of the VA & DC Student Advisory Board, where she collaborates with fellow students to plan events for local chapters. As a State Ambassador, Zara has helped the state office create a variety of promotional posts and videos to spread awareness about the Best Buddies mission.
Zara also attended the Best Buddies Leadership Conference, where she gained valuable skills that helped her shine as a featured speaker in front of more than 300 attendees at the 2024 VA & DC Homecoming Dance. Through her experiences, Best Buddies has become a transformative force in her life, connecting her with incredible peers and mentors.
Zara is a committed leader who works to ensure that inclusion is not just an idea but a reality in her school and community. She is thrilled to join the Global Ambassadors’ team and looks forward to continuing her advocacy alongside other passionate leaders from around the world.
Zach Smith
New York
Zach first got involved with Best Buddies in 2011 at Westborough High School, where he served as the chapter’s Buddy Director. His involvement with the program led to one of the most unforgettable moments of his life—catching a touchdown pass from Tom Brady at the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port in Boston. That experience solidified his passion for the organization and its mission.
After high school, Zach continued his involvement by joining the Best Buddies Citizens program. He now lives independently in New York City and works in a job he truly loves.
As part of the Best Buddies Jobs program, Zach has been employed by the NFL for the past four seasons as a Statistics Support Specialist. Remarkably, he has led the staff in the number of perfect games for each of those seasons. In addition to excelling in his role, Zach also took the initiative to create an Employee Resource Group for NFL employees and families of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities—demonstrating his leadership and commitment to inclusion.
Zach brings incredible energy, enthusiasm, and heart to everything he does. He is always eager to support the Best Buddies mission, whether by speaking at New York events, participating in the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, or most recently, running the NYC Marathon.
With his passion, determination, and drive to create a more inclusive world, Zach is just getting started.
Margo Meley
Connecticut
Margo joined Best Buddies in 2016 while completing her associate’s degree in General Studies at Quinebaug Valley Community College. She continued her involvement through the Best Buddies chapter at Eastern Connecticut State University, where she is currently matched with her buddy, Olivia who she lovingly describes as “the bee to my flower.” As Margo says, “I just love that Olivia looks past what makes me flawed and just sees me.” Her warmth, authenticity, and resilience make her an inspiration to everyone she meets.
Margo lives by the motto: “Always be kind, because everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” Her life experiences have shaped her into the passionate advocate she is today. She proudly serves as a State Ambassador for Best Buddies in Connecticut. Margo has shared her story and message of inclusion at numerous events, including Champion of the Year Galas, Friendship Walks, the 2018 Best Buddies Leadership Conference (BBLC), and the Best Buddies Connecticut Soirée. She has also played a vital role in several Friendship Walk planning committees, always ready to support the mission in her home state.
Margo’s ambition and commitment to advocacy for both herself and others set her apart. But her journey didn’t happen overnight. In 2016, she participated in the National Miss Amazing Pageant, an experience that gave her tools to step confidently into the world. The following year, she joined the Best Buddies Ambassadors program, a decision that proved to be a turning point in her personal and leadership development.
In 2018, Margo delivered a moving speech during the Closing Ceremonies of BBLC, a moment she credits with deepening her connection to Best Buddies and reinforcing her leadership skills. That journey ultimately led her to join the Best Buddies Young Leaders Council (YLC) in 2020. In January 2021, she was selected to serve as co-chair of the YLC for the 2022–2024 term. Most recently, she spoke at the 2023 Best Buddies Leadership Conference Staff Dinner Ceremony, continuing to lead with heart, authenticity, and courage.
Ethan Schroeder
Missouri
Ethan is incredibly passionate about Best Buddies and has been actively involved with Best Buddies in Missouri since its launch in 2016.
Over the years, Ethan has participated in Best Buddies college chapters at Saint Louis University and Maryville University, and he recently joined the St. Louis Citizens chapter. Ethan has held several leadership roles, attended the Best Buddies Leadership Conference, and continues to make a meaningful impact across Missouri. He frequently speaks at local schools and events and is a committed fundraiser for both the Friendship Walk and Champion of the Year.
He graduated from Marquette High School in 2010 and went on to join the inaugural cohort of the SUCCEED Program at the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). While studying at UMSL, Ethan lived on campus, stayed active in campus life—including a nomination to the homecoming court—and DJed for the university’s radio station. Ethan is also proud of his work as a prep specialist at Raising Cane’s, where he has been employed since July 2020.
In his free time, Ethan enjoys bowling, movies, sports, and spending time with friends. He has a deep love for music and plays both the drums and guitar.
Melinda Lugo
Massachusetts
Melinda is an integral part of the Best Buddies community in her region. Her curiosity, determination, compassion, and contagious positivity serve as a shining light, brightening the lives of those around her and inspiring others to be their best selves.
Melinda first became involved with Best Buddies in 2016 when she joined the Jobs program in Massachusetts. She excelled in the program and graduated in 2020. Since then, she has maintained her role at a local medical center and, through her dedication and hard work, earned her driver’s license and saved enough to purchase her dream car.
In 2018, Melinda joined Best Buddies’ Ambassadors program and eventually became a State Ambassador. She has grown into one of the most passionate and effective advocates for the Best Buddies mission in Massachusetts and serves as a role model to fellow ambassadors and community members alike. In 2024, she participated in the most ambassador trainings and speaking engagements in the state, earning her the title of Ambassador of the Year.
Among her many accomplishments, Melinda completed the 20-mile tandem ride at the 2024 Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port and delivered a powerful speech at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference Closing Ceremonies. She has also spoken at numerous schools and local Best Buddies events, always bringing energy, authenticity, and heart.
Melinda uses her social media platforms to create uplifting and inspirational videos, encouraging others to believe in themselves and never give up. Her capacity to make a positive impact is limitless. Simply by being her authentic self, she inspires others to become better versions of themselves and pursues her passion for transforming the world through positivity and self-belief.
Shivam Talwar
Colorado
Shivam Talwar is a passionate advocate for the IDD community and a trailblazer within Best Buddies in Colorado, where he made history as the state’s first-ever State Ambassador.
Diagnosed with autism, Shivam has harnessed his voice and platform to inspire meaningful change. He has spoken at numerous Best Buddies events, including the Friendship Walks in Colorado, as well as the Denver and Aspen Galas. One of his proudest moments was delivering a speech at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference Closing Ceremonies, where he addressed an audience of over 2,000 students from around the world.
Shivam’s journey with Best Buddies began in 2017 at Castle View High School, where he first experienced the power of inclusion and friendship. Since then, he has remained dedicated to amplifying the voices of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Now, as a Best Buddies Global Ambassador, Shivam is committed to expanding his advocacy efforts, fostering meaningful connections, and promoting opportunities for people of all abilities.
Outside of his advocacy work, Shivam is a talented, self-taught pianist with a passion for classical music. He currently co-hosts a new show, The Classical Guy, on KIBU TV, where he shares his love of music with audiences far and wide. A true linguist, Shivam speaks Spanish and French, and is currently learning Italian and Hindi.
Shivam’s kindness, enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication make him an extraordinary friend, leader, and role model. His journey as a Best Buddies Global Ambassador is just beginning and the impact he is destined to make will undoubtedly be inspiring.
Shane Walsh
Virginia
Shane Walsh is originally from Massachusetts and currently attends James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia. His journey with Best Buddies and Unified Sports began at Franklin High School, where he vividly remembers the warm welcome and genuine kindness he received at his very first Best Buddies meeting. That experience sparked a deep passion for the mission, and he soon stepped into a leadership role on his school’s executive board.
Shane’s dedication and hard work paid off when he was elected chapter president. He went on to attend the Best Buddies Leadership Conference twice, where he had the opportunity to speak to an international audience about his powerful personal experiences, particularly as someone with a family member with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD). During those conferences, Shane also formed lifelong friendships with fellow attendees. He later shared his story at the 2024 VA & DC Champion of the Year event.
Best Buddies has played a significant role in shaping Shane into a stronger leader, a more empathetic friend, and a devoted sibling. Now pursuing a degree in Special Education at JMU, Shane is committed to continuing his advocacy and helping build a more inclusive world through Best Buddies and beyond.
Lauren "Liane" Hinlo
Phillippines
From a young age, Liane has naturally been an advocate for inclusion whether she realized it or not. In September 2024, her role as an intern for Best Buddies in the Philippines ignited a deeper passion for the mission, solidifying her commitment to creating a more inclusive world.
Throughout her internship, Liane consistently demonstrated initiative, leadership, and a strong spirit of volunteerism. Her dedication went far beyond the expectations of her role. In addition to her creative responsibilities, she enthusiastically took on a variety of tasks, including event hosting, tech management, logistics and transportation coordination, communications, and more.
Her impact didn’t stop there. Liane successfully secured nearly Php 50,000 in sponsorship for the Best Buddies Pre-Employment program, showcasing both her initiative and belief in the mission. Even after her internship officially ended, she remained an active and reliable volunteer, contributing to projects such as translating materials for a Best Buddies in Mexico collaboration and helping lead major events, including the Sounds of Change fundraiser.
Her passion for inclusion remains stronger than ever. Determined to bring Best Buddies to her own community, Liane introduced the organization to her alma mater, where efforts are now underway to launch a new school chapter.
Liane’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, initiative, and purpose and her impact is only just beginning.
Carlos Kanahashi
Phillippines
Carlos Miguel Kanahashi is a passionate advocate for inclusion and self-empowerment from Quezon City, Philippines. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of five, he has made it his mission to champion the rights of people with disabilities. In 2022, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde Manila.
Carlos has been an active member of Best Buddies in the Philippines since 2018, a journey that began with the support of his mother and the Benilde Center for Inclusive Education. His involvement steadily grew, and in 2021, he was honored as the Local Ambassador for Best Buddies Philippines. In recognition of his passion and dedication to inclusion, he was recently named a Global Ambassador for Best Buddies International.
In his role as an ambassador, Carlos has spoken at numerous events across the Philippines and was featured in an interview with leading TV network Net25 in April 2024. Through these platforms, he continues to inspire others with his belief in the power of inclusion.
Carlos is a proud self-advocate who encourages others to stand up for themselves and in doing so, become advocates for others. He believes this ripple effect of self-empowerment can lead to lasting change. He credits much of his growth to the ambassador trainings he received through Best Buddies Philippines.
Beyond his advocacy work, Carlos enjoys traveling, attending live concerts, and listening to music, especially his favorite artist, Taylor Swift.
Carlos lives by the motto: “Nothing About Us Without Us,” a powerful reminder of his unwavering commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have a voice in decisions that impact their lives.
Tim Jackson
Illinois
Tim Jackson is a leader, advocate, and powerful voice for the IDD community in Central Illinois. Not only is he one of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, he is also proudly “Bluetooth enabled,” bringing his unique sense of humor and charm wherever he goes.
Tim’s journey with Best Buddies began in 2005 when he joined the Pekin High School Friendship Chapter, after spending much of his life searching for meaningful friendships. Since then, he has remained an active participant in the Best Buddies movement, continuing his involvement through the Bradley University Friendship Chapter and the Central Illinois Citizens Chapter.
Tim’s leadership expanded when he became a State Ambassador for Best Buddies in Illinois. In this role, he has received the Illinois Jaycees Outstanding Young Person Award for his advocacy efforts and has played a key role in organizing Friendship Walks, delivering impactful speeches at local schools and businesses, and educating others about the importance of inclusion.
In addition to his advocacy, Tim has helped raise funds for Best Buddies by serving as a Champion of the Year for two consecutive years.
Tim is a firm believer in the power of friendship and continues to use his voice to support and uplift the IDD community. His warmth, humor, and commitment to inclusion make him a true champion for change.
Charlie Trujillo
Florida
Charlie Trujillo lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, and is a senior at Palm Beach Central High School. He has been an active member of Best Buddies since elementary school and has served as Buddy Director at his high school for the past two years. Charlie is excited to graduate in May and pursue post-secondary opportunities.
Charlie loves participating in the Best Buddies Friendship Walks and the annual Friendship Ball. In both 2022 and 2024, he served as a Mission Partner for the Champion of the Year Gala, helping to raise over $80,000 to support Best Buddies programs!
He has also represented Best Buddies on a broader stage, appearing on CBS Morning News to promote the Best Buddies Leadership Conference and participating in the Bowling with Buddies celebrity bowling event with Best Buddies in California.
Charlie is especially grateful to Best Buddies Jobs for helping him secure his current role at SkyZone, where he enjoys working and is gaining valuable job experience.
He has attended the Best Buddies Leadership Conference, where he loves meeting new people and building friendships with peers from across the country.
Charlie is honored to be selected as a member of the Global Ambassadors Class of 2025–2027 and looks forward to continuing his journey as an advocate for inclusion and opportunity.