Leadership

Nancy De Siervo - Founder

Nancy, the founder and visionary behind Ability Beyond Sight (ABS), is a force of transformation in the wellness industry. As the Spa Director at a major franchise, she shapes the brand’s strategic direction, vision, and growth, consistently exceeding sales goals.

 

ABS, from its inception, embodies Nancy’s dream—a universal platform fostering camaraderie among all people. It raises public awareness, shifts attitudes, and celebrates the healing power of touch for individuals who are blind. Nancy’s mission is clear: to empower licensed Massage Therapists on their journey to personal and economic freedom, culminating in employment and entrepreneurial success.

 

Her commitment to community service has garnered radio interviews, massage write-ups, and the prestigious 2016 New Jersey Salute to Champions Award for promoting inclusivity. Nancy holds an associate’s degree in business from Bergen Community College, is a New Jersey Board Certified skincare specialist, and boasts numerous day spa certifications. Her touch transcends boundaries, leaving a lasting impact. 

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​Dawud Ali -Board Chair

Dawud Ali, the Founder/CEO of A Friend In Knead, is a remarkable individual who has seamlessly blended arts, entertainment, spirituality, and holistic living. As a master massage therapist and trainer, he has made significant contributions to the field.

 

His achievements include being an approved provider by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and earning the prestigious title of 2024 New Jersey Massage Champion. Beyond massage therapy, Dawud is also a talented musician and a certified audio engineer. In addition to his personal accomplishments, Dawud is deeply committed to community service. He serves as the CEO of Alu Cultural Arts & Mentoring Program (ACAMP), a nonprofit organization that provides music and fine arts education in the Bronx, NY. Furthermore, he holds the position of Board Chair at Ability Beyond Sight (ABS), an organization dedicated to advancing the careers of visually impaired massage therapists.

 

A Friend In Knead (AFIK) has touched lives across various settings, from hospitals and wellness centers to boxing gyms, festivals, spa parties, weddings, and corporate events. Their mission is to create an oasis of calm, relaxation, pain relief, natural anti-aging, healing, and customized care within the community. Dawud’s presence brings warmth, empathy, harmony, and art to any spiritual, therapeutic, or healing environment. His commitment to soulful well-being is truly commendable. Dawud’s favorite quote, “where the spirit does not work with the hand there is no art”- L. Da Vinci.

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Rose Santiago - Vice Chair

Rose Santiago, bestselling author and visionary entrepreneur, embodies resilience and unwavering commitment. Her book, ‘Live Your True Essence: Transform Fear to Flow,’ empowers readers toward profound transformation. As the founder of ‘True Essence Beauty,’ Rose creates organic products that nurture mind, body, and spirit. She also serves as Vice Chair of ‘Ability Beyond Sight’ championing inclusivity for blind massage therapists. With decades of business acumen, Rose is a symbol of perseverance, recognized with the President’s Life Achievement Award. Rose has graced platforms such as the National Federation of the Blind, St. Joseph School for the Blind, Vision, Loss Alliance, the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind, the Federation for Fighting Blindness, and the Seeing Eye, captivating audiences with her magnetic presence and enlightening words

 

Her dynamic speaking engagements inspire others, reflecting her vibrant personality and zest for life. As a blind woman herself, Rose embodies the mission of breaking barriers and creating possibilities, inspiring others through her work and advocacy.  Rose’s interests include singing, reading, and spreading joy – leading with love and integrity. She embodies a belief in endless possibilities and strives to be the change she wishes to see in the world.

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Natalie Fedorchenko - Treasurer

Master Esthetician - has been an esthetician for over 15 years and has a strong passion for helping clients look their best and always goes above and beyond to achieve that. With a background in teaching and spa management, Natalie always strives to put the client first and caters to their needs. She believes in educating clients and working with them to obtain the best results for the skin and well-being of a person. Natalie’s approach to skin health is cultivating balance from the inside out and developing healthy habits. She specializes in services ranging from customized facials to more advanced treatments such as micro current, micro needling, acne, and skin tag removal targeting specific concerns and signs of aging. Natalie is a certified Gua Sha Massage provider, Acne Specialist and also an Oncology Certified Esthetician. 

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Patricia Ponce - Secretary

Patricia is an innovative and performance-driven experienced Massage Therapist with a profound passion for the wellness arts. She believes in the transformative power of touch and has a deep understanding of the body-mind connection. With a proven track record of providing customized therapeutic massage to diverse clientele, Patricia is proficient in various modalities, ensuring tailored sessions to address individual client needs. Having received her certificate from the American Institute Massage School and with over 15 years of experience, Patricia has honed her expertise in a wide range of modalities, including Swedish, prenatal, and hot stone massage. What sets her apart is her holistic approach, considering not only the physical but also the emotional and energetic aspects of her client’s well-being.  Patricia creates a serene and nurturing environment where her clients can unwind, relax, and release built-up tension, allowing them to live their lives to the fullest. Her compassionate nature and commitment to ongoing learning and professional development make her a trusted and respected therapist among her clients and colleagues alike.

 

​Fred Di Tecco - Member 

Fred is the owner of OnTimeWebDesign.biz LLC and has an extensive background in all areas of marketing, multi-media advertising and website design. He enjoys helping business owners craft their social media content and Google Business Profile updates. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and giving back to the community with his NewJerseyCarShows.com website.

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Christine Howell - Member 

Christine has dedicated countless hours over the years to volunteering at soup kitchens and feeding the homeless. With a background in food service and retail, she brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her volunteer work. Her unwavering commitment to serving those in need has made a significant impact on her community. With a compassionate heart and a tireless spirit, Christine ensures that everyone she encounters feels valued and cared for. Her efforts not only provide nourishment but also bring hope and dignity to the lives of many. Christine is very excited to be part of the Ability Beyond Sight Organization, where she continues to exemplify the true spirit of volunteerism and community service.