Our Team
Founder/ Executive Director
Mariya Dostzadah Goodbrake
Mariya Dostzadah Goodbrake is the founder and director of Global FC. Mariya is originally from Afghanistan. Her family fled that country during the Soviet invasion and embarked on a journey that took them to Iran and India, before immigrating to Canada with her family. She relocated to the United States in 2013. Mariya is an active public speaker, intercultural trainer, storyteller, and human rights activist. Mariya has extensive experience in the areas of youth and sports development, diaspora community, religious freedom, refugee resettlement, and cross-cultural training. Within the United States, her research and programming focus on the educational and socialization experiences of immigrant and refugee youth.
Director of Coaching
Mike Brown
Michael@branch-global.com
Mike has an extensive background in soccer including playing and coaching at multiple levels. His love for the game and enthusiasm for developing players enhances his effectiveness as a coach. Mike’s playing background includes being a member of the 1987 National Qualifier Avila College soccer team; St. Louis perennial power Vianney High School; and ten years with the Voyager Soccer Club of St. Louis. Mike also coached the University of Missouri-Kansas City men’s soccer team where he led the Roos to their most successful seasons to date from 1992-1997. In 2011, Mike became the Assistant Superintendent – Academic Services and Continuous Improvement for the Platte County School District. Mike recently retired from the Platte County School District.
Mike and his wife, Megan, have four children and two grandchildren. He has personally ran 326 marathons to date and loves to help others achieve their life goals through personal coaching and motivational speaking.
Soccer Administrative Assistant
Deb Carrano
Deb@branch-global.com
Deb Carrano joined Global FC as their Soccer Administrator with extensive experience over the years working as an Athletic Director and serving in various organizations implementing effective processes and procedures to bring about growth and improving efficiency. With a background in Recreation Administration, Deb values the positive impact sports offers as a tool in cultivating character and personal development in the lives of young people. She celebrates the diverse cultures represented throughout our Global FC community and looks forward to Global FC’s continued growth and ongoing accomplishments as represented in the lives of those we have the privilege of serving.
Director of Community Integration
Patricia Carter
Patricia@branch-global.com
Patricia has worked with youth for over a decade including as a nanny, ABA registered behavior technician, and for the last four years at Global FC. As someone who grew up overseas and in a multicultural home herself, Patricia thrives in the diverse community at Global FC. Patricia is passionate about learning and enjoys serving as a connector between community organizations, schools, and academic support and Global FC volunteers and youth. In her free time, you can find her exploring Kansas City, biking, paddleboarding, or spending time with her dogs.
Director of Mentoring
Madi Harrington
Madi@branch-global.com
After moving around to several cities, Madi found her way to KC and jumped straight into Global FC. She came in with a background in volunteer management, life coaching development, creative design, and a heart to work in the nonprofit sector. Madi recognizes the importance of being in diverse spaces and the call to advocacy by supporting and uplifting others. Madi now works over our mentor department by helping train, recruit, and support our volunteers who are the hands and feet of Global FC.
Board Of Directors
John Duker
Sheronda Davis
Edward Jones II
Mariya Dostzadah Goodbrake
