About Us
The Global Institute for Sustainable Development (GISD) is a nonprofit organization based in Fairfax County, Virginia, proudly serving communities across the DMV area (DC, Maryland, and Virginia).
Founded in 2024 by Suliman A. Kamyar, GISD is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through education, innovation, and action. We address today’s most pressing challenges—such as poverty, economic inequality, and the digital divide—by offering sustainable, practical solutions rooted in collaboration and learning.
Our work is guided by three core focus areas:
Education & Skills Development (including Technology & AI)
Community Engagement & Advocacy
Poverty Reduction & Economic Empowerment
Through programs, events, and partnerships, we connect local communities with global expertise to deliver initiatives that create real-world impact. By investing in people and fostering inclusive development, we aim to build stronger, more resilient communities—locally and globally.
Empowering Sustainable Development in Communities
Join us in creating practical solutions for today’s global challenges, fostering education and innovation to uplift communities across the Virginia and DMV area.
About me
Here, you can briefly introduce yourself. Share insights about your professional journey, accomplishments, and personal interests. Let others glimpse into your work experiences, achievements, and passions, offering a comprehensive portrayal of who you are.
Our Executive Team
Kendel A. Paulsen, MA, CDCS, ACC
Founding Board Member
Kendel A. Paulsen is a leadership, life, and career coach with years of experience empowering professionals and purpose-driven leaders to achieve personal clarity, professional growth, and meaningful impact. As the founder of Women’s Empowerment Coaching and Consulting, LLC, Kendel supports individuals across industries and career stages in defining their direction and leading with confidence.
She has provided transformational coaching to professionals at some of the world’s most recognized organizations, including Salesforce, Amazon, and Accenture, as well as nonprofit leaders and entrepreneurs. With over 1,000 coaching hours, Kendel brings a strategic, compassionate, and results-driven approach to every engagement.
Kendel’s leadership extends beyond coaching—she has served as Chair of the Board of Trustees for Brain Injury Services, leading the organization through board development, advocacy, and executive collaboration. Her expertise in organizational management, paired with her deep human insight, makes her a vital voice on the GISD Board of Directors.
She holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Management, multiple advanced certifications—including Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation—and is a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator.
Board of Directors
Our Location
Located in Fairfax County, we serve the DMV area, empowering communities through education, innovation, and action for sustainable development.
Address
10300 Eaton Pl, Suite 440, Fairfax VA 22030
&
Centreville, VA 20121
Hours
9 AM - 5 PM | Monday to Friday