About Us
Know About Our Board Member
Sumeya Gibril
- Founder's Executive Director
Sumeya Gibril is the Founder of Rise Above Be Relentless Foundation. She serves as the President and Executive Director. She is the CEO of Phoenix Global Shipping, where she also serves as a licensed and permitted customs broker—one of roughly 15,000 in the United States. Rooted in her journey from Eritrea to Alexandria, Virginia, and her service in the U.S. Army, she brings a unique blend of global perspective, operational expertise, and lived experience as a survivor of sexual trauma and domestic violence.
After facing childhood abuse, navigating a difficult military separation, and rebuilding her life. Sumeya did the hard internal work of healing—developing self-love, confidence, communication skills, and strong boundaries—and now channels that transform into advocacy and leadership. Through the Rise Above Be Relentless Foundation and Phoenix Global Shipping, she is committed to helping women and children move from victimhood to victory by providing resources, community, and courageous storytelling that challenge silence and demand accountability.
Sabina Buendia
- Treasurer
Sabina is a VP at Axos Bank. She serves as Treasurer and Head of the Sponsorship Committee for the Rise Above. Be Relentless. Foundation. As a survivor of domestic violence, she understands the challenges of seeking help and the importance of compassion without judgment. Guided by her humanitarian values, Sabina leads the Foundation’s sponsorship and financial strategies with a deep commitment to sustainability and growth.
Sabina Buendia
- Treasurer
Sabina is a VP at Axos Bank. She serves as Treasurer and Head of the Sponsorship Committee for the Rise Above. Be Relentless. Foundation. As a survivor of domestic violence, she understands the challenges of seeking help and the importance of compassion without judgment. Guided by her humanitarian values, Sabina leads the Foundation’s sponsorship and financial strategies with a deep commitment to sustainability and growth.
Gloria Fonseca
- Fundraising Chair
Gloria is Founder and CEO of Elite PR Media, Gloria publishes McLean Living and Great Falls Living, magazines that spotlight local families, women leaders, and small businesses across Northern Virginia. Her work with Helvetia & Co., a bespoke jewelry brand rooted in empowerment, and Easy Raisy, a youth fundraising platform that has generated over $2 million, reflects her passion for community, creativity, and connection.
Gloria’s leadership and vision will bring tremendous value and guidance to Rise Above as we continue empowering women, honoring veterans, and creating spaces for healing and growth.
Shannon DeJohn
- Outreach Chair
Shannon DeJohn leads the Mid-Atlantic Region for Fogo de Chão, overseeing a team of sales professionals and a robust portfolio of corporate and social events. She serves on the Board of the Rise Above. Be Relentless. Foundation, where she lends her hospitality and sales expertise to support strategic partnerships and signature experiences.
With more than a decade in sales, hospitality, and event planning, Shannon has managed everything from intimate corporate dinners to large-scale celebrations, always with a focus on precision, creativity, and guest-centered service. Guided by her commitment to connection and community, she brings a collaborative, hands-on approach to every initiative she supports.
“I’m proud to join the Rise Above Be Relentless Foundation Board to help empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual trauma. Their mission aligns with my values of resilience, healing, and community support, and I’m excited to contribute my leadership experience to drive meaningful change.”
Shannon DeJohn
- Outreach Chair
Shannon DeJohn leads the Mid-Atlantic Region for Fogo de Chão, overseeing a team of sales professionals and a robust portfolio of corporate and social events. She serves on the Board of the Rise Above. Be Relentless. Foundation, where she lends her hospitality and sales expertise to support strategic partnerships and signature experiences.
With more than a decade in sales, hospitality, and event planning, Shannon has managed everything from intimate corporate dinners to large-scale celebrations, always with a focus on precision, creativity, and guest-centered service. Guided by her commitment to connection and community, she brings a collaborative, hands-on approach to every initiative she supports.
“I’m proud to join the Rise Above Be Relentless Foundation Board to help empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual trauma. Their mission aligns with my values of resilience, healing, and community support, and I’m excited to contribute my leadership experience to drive meaningful change.”