Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ayesha Shah. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ayesha , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I found my purpose through a mix of personal experiences and community connections. Growing up with a sister who has autism shaped the way I see the world. She helped me love myself by showing me what unconditional love and joy look like, and I knew I wanted to give that feeling back to others.
I started volunteering in my community and eventually joined Footprints 4 Autism, where I had the chance to work directly with children on the spectrum. That experience opened my eyes to the beauty of different ways of communicating and being. Every child I worked with had something special to offer, and I learned that even if someone expresses themselves differently, they can have the kindest, most genuine soul.
Along the way, I also volunteered at a retirement home and a reptile zoo, two very different environments that both taught me how to connect in meaningful ways. At the retirement home, I worked as the assistant to the recreation director, helping organize and lead activities for residents, many of whom had dementia. Some of them expressed themselves best through art, and it was beautiful to see how paintings or drawings could spark memories or emotions when words were harder to find. At the reptile zoo, I helped care for animals and guide visitors, which showed me that connection can happen anywhere–through conversation, creativity, care, or even calming someone’s fear of snakes!
When I discovered Origami for Good, their mission immediately resonated with me. I now serve as their Marketing Director, which allows me to combine my love for communication, creativity, and service. Art has always connected me with my sister, who loves creating and sharing her work with others. I saw Origami for Good as a chance to use art as a form of expression and a way to spread kindness.
I also helped my sister grow her YouTube channel, supporting her behind the scenes with marketing and strategy, and we hit over 150 subscribers in less than a month. That project reminded me of how much I enjoy helping others shine.
Through these experiences, I realized that helping people, especially through creativity, communication, and empathy, feels like home to me. Uplifting others, embracing diversity, and sharing positive messages are not just things I enjoy–they’re what I do best.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
At Origami for Good, I serve as the Marketing Director, where I get to blend creativity, purpose, and communication every day. Our mission is all about using art, specifically origami, as a way to spread kindness, raise awareness, and support charitable causes. What I find most exciting is seeing all the different origami people create–each one unique–and watching our volunteers come together with so much heart and energy.
What makes Origami for Good truly special is our ability to connect people of all ages and backgrounds through a shared purpose. Whether it’s folding cranes for hope, partnering with organizations, or spotlighting volunteers who use their work to uplift others, there’s a strong sense of community behind everything we do. One of the most rewarding parts is sending out the origami creations to places like retirement homes, hospitals, etc–it’s amazing how something so small can bring someone so much joy.
As Marketing Director, I love being able to shape how our message reaches the world–whether through social media, collaborations, or creative campaigns. I also have a personal connection to the work: my younger sister, who expresses herself through art, and seeing how she uses creativity to connect with others inspires me every day.
We’re always welcoming volunteers and interns who want to use their creativity to help spread kindness. Whether you’re into design, social media, event planning, or just love folding paper, there’s a place for you here to make a real difference!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been creativity, empathy, and communication.
Creativity has been essential, not just in designing campaigns or visuals, but in finding new ways to tell stories and connect people through something as simple as origami. It’s taught me to think outside the box and approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear.
Empathy has helped me understand the heart behind what we do. From working with interns to promoting art for people in hospitals or retirement homes, empathy keeps the focus on the impact we’re making, not just the output. It fuels more thoughtful decisions, deeper connections, and a stronger commitment to creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Communication ties everything together. Whether it’s writing a social media caption, collaborating with the Origami for Good team, or motivating volunteers, being able to clearly and properly share a message is key. It helps get ideas across and allows them to shine.
For those just starting, my advice is: don’t wait until you feel “ready” to begin. Start small, stay open to learning, seek opportunities and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Practice creativity daily, even if it’s just sketching or journaling. Listen actively, ask questions, and always lead with empathy. Growth happens through doing, not just planning.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my mother did for me was teach me how to stand on my own with integrity. She taught me independence, not just in doing things for myself, but in thinking for myself, trusting my instincts, and knowing my worth. She showed me how to respect myself and others, even when it’s difficult. From her, I learned how to take criticism without shrinking, and how to walk away from situations that were made to make me feel uncomfortable.
But more than anything, she made me believe that I was enough. In moments where I doubted myself or felt out of place, she was the voice that reminded me of my strength. That kind of belief gave me the courage to become who I am today. She pushed me to strive for the best version of myself, not to chase perfection, but to honour my potential. Because of her encouragement and example, I’ve gone on to win awards in Math, English, and for kindness–things that reflect both what I’ve learned and who I’ve become.
To anyone reading this: know that you can be strong and gentle at the same time. Learn to listen to yourself the way someone who loves you would. And never be afraid to choose peace over stress–your well-being is worth it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayeshxshah/ +OFG https://www.instagram.com/origami.forgood/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayesha-shah-12ba042aa
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
