Advisory Board

Vivek Rao

Strategic
Development

Kelsey Crain

International
Education

Vivek brings a wealth of expertise in entrepreneurial leadership, human-centered innovation, and strategic foresight, making him an invaluable asset for Culturous as an Advisor for Strategic Development. 

With 15+ years of experience across startups, mid-size firms, and Fortune 10 companies - including his current role at Amazon - Vivek specializes in high-impact initiatives, navigating complex challenges, fostering clarity in decision-making, and designing sustainable growth strategies.


Vivek will help shape the future of Culturous by providing guidance on long-term strategies, growth and expansion, and innovative approaches to intercultural exchange. 

 

"Culturous helps teenagers - our future leaders - realize that compassion helps to treat "others" - i.e., those who look, talk, think, and act differently than us - fairly, without preconceived biases. This skill is increasingly relevant now. I am privileged to support this noble cause in any way I can." 



As an Advisor for International Education, Kelsey’s insights and passion for global learning will help advancing Culturous’ educational vision in programming, curriculum development, and training processes. 

She holds a Master’s degree in International Education from SIT Graduate Institute and has dedicated her career to fostering international education and helping students to navigate cultural transitions. She currently serves as the Assistant Director of International Student and Scholar Services for the University of Washington Tacoma.

 

“I am thrilled to be joining the Culturous Board of Advisors. It is more important than ever that young people learn how to connect across differences to build empathy and understanding. I am especially inspired by Culturous’ mission to provide these 

special opportunities to teens who face barriers to accessing traditional study abroad.”