At the heart of Diaspora in Bloom is a dedicated group of leaders who believe in the transformative power of art. Our Board of Directors brings together artists, educators, advocates, and community voices who guide our mission and support our vision.

Each member offers a unique perspective, united by a shared commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive, and connected creative community. Through their leadership, we expand access to the arts and uplift diverse stories.

Get to know the people helping Diaspora in Bloom grow and flourish.

Nardin Sarkis: Co-Founder

Nardin Sarkis is the Co-Founder of Diaspora in Bloom, where he shapes its curatorial vision and supports contemporary diaspora storytelling. Nardin brings a deep commitment to cultivating new forms of artistic expression and creating spaces where diaspora communities can share their stories. He is also the founder of MesoPortrayal, a global digital platform for art & culture. Based in San Francisco, he is a poet, writer, and policy professional.

Akadina Yadegar: Co-Founder

Akadina Yadegar is the Co-Founder of Diaspora in Bloom and an arts advocate focused on uplifting artists across the diaspora. She creates space for work exploring identity, migration, memory, and belonging, grounded in a belief in storytelling and community as tools for collective growth. She also brings experience supporting early-stage startups and building ecosystems for creative and entrepreneurial development. Based in San Francisco, she works at the intersection of art, innovation, and community.

Arbelina Bebla: Treasurer

Arbelina Bebla is the Treasurer of Diaspora in Bloom, supporting the organization’s growth and sustainability. She brings a background in healthcare strategy and market access, along with a strong commitment to community and culture. In 2023, she founded her company’s annual Cultural Fair, highlighting Assyrian history, traditions, and arts. Based in San Jose, she works to strengthen and promote Assyrian arts and culture.

Alexandra David: Marketing Director

Alexandra David is the Marketing Director of Diaspora in Bloom, where she builds community through storytelling and strategy. She believes marketing can spark curiosity, invite participation, and deepen connections around art. Her work amplifies artists’ voices, expands access, and grows the organization’s reach while staying rooted in its mission.

Nicolette Joma: Art Historian

Nicolette Joma is a Curator for Diaspora in Bloom, dedicated to advancing Assyrian arts and culture. She focuses on artists and narratives centered on identity, memory, and cultural continuity. With a background in art history and arts management, she has experience in research, curation, and exhibition production. Her work connects scholarship, creative practice, and community to keep diasporic histories visible and evolving.