About Us
No Res Gourmet's mission is to end hunger in the United States by harnessing the transformative power of food, celebration, and conscious activations, creating a replicable system that unites communities and empowers individuals to thrive.
Our Vision
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating food insecurity with a holistic approach that blends nutrition, education, and immersive experiences. At No Res Gourmet, we unite communities through innovative service models, emphasizing unity and well-being. Our initiatives, designed to address the distinct needs of diverse groups, strive to create a replicable system that not only nourishes but also empowers, promoting a culture of health, food sovereignty, and environmental stewardship.
Meet the Team
Firas Ayyad
President, Director of Operations
Firas founded No Res Gourmet in 2019 as a small initiative from his home kitchen, driven by a deep commitment to service and community empowerment. With a Master’s degree in International Development from UCSD, he has worked with both local and international organizations, including the United Nations in Palestinian refugee camps. As a refugee himself, Firas understands firsthand the struggles of displacement and food insecurity. His vision for No Res Gourmet has since grown into a full-scale nonprofit, serving hundreds of thousands of meals, launching educational programs, and leading disaster relief efforts. Beyond his nonprofit work, Firas is a passionate musician and longtime organizer at Burning Man. His love for music, culture, and gathering shaped No Res Gourmet’s unique approach—blending celebration with service to create lasting, transformative impact.
Erik Armstrong
VP, Director of Programs
Erik was instrumental in the growth of No Res Gourmet from its early days, evolving from a dedicated weekly volunteer to a key leader in expanding its programs and partnerships. His passion for food sovereignty and sustainability led to the creation of the Community Permaculture Program, which teaches schoolchildren and local communities how to grow their own food and build long-term food security. With years of experience in global initiatives supporting indigenous communities—including water access, sustainable agriculture, and regenerative farming—his expertise continues to shape No Res Gourmet’s approach to education and impact. Beyond his nonprofit work, Erik is an organizer of a major Burning Man camp, overseeing large-scale food operations that serve thousands. His dedication to conscious community building ensures No Res Gourmet stays true to its mission—bridging service, sustainability, and celebration.
E. Shay Omolabi
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Shay is a dedicated philanthropist and community advocate with a strong background in fundraising, networking, and resource mobilization. Growing up in Brixton, South London, he witnessed economic disparities firsthand, shaping his lifelong commitment to uplifting underserved communities. With extensive experience in securing major donations, cultivating high-profile partnerships, and mobilizing resources, Shay has played a critical role in expanding access to aid for vulnerable populations. His strategic efforts have helped No Res Gourmet scale its impact, bringing in key supporters and expanding outreach. Beyond fundraising, Shay is deeply involved in hands-on service—mentoring youth, supporting displaced individuals, and leading initiatives that provide food, shelter, and essential supplies.
George Stavrianidis
Board Treasurer
George brings deep expertise in fintech and financial strategy. As the Founder and CEO of an innovative fintech firm, he has a strong commitment to financial innovation. His background includes managing major capital deals for nonprofits and years of experience at Prudential Private Capital, where he specialized in financial analysis, distressed debt, and restructuring. George further honed his expertise on Morgan Stanley’s macro trading desk, gaining a global perspective on financial markets. With a double major in Finance and Economics from Rutgers University, he plays a critical role in shaping No Res Gourmet’s financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.
Shannon Thomas (she/They)
Board Secretary
Shannon is a Transformative Justice practitioner and conflict mediator who brings a deep commitment to healing, equity, and community repair. Raised in a multiracial family with roots in India, Germany, Mexico, and Lebanon, they grew up navigating the complexities of power, identity, and belonging—experiences that shaped their lifelong dedication to justice work. Shannon graduated summa cum laude from UC Berkeley in Peace and Conflict and Middle Eastern Studies and later earned a Master’s in Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School. Their early work included research on intergenerational trauma in Israel/Palestine and gender-based violence prevention in India. After the 2016 election, they shifted their focus to domestic justice, becoming a speechwriter and fundraiser for progressive congressional campaigns, including Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Cori Bush. Back in Los Angeles, Shannon founded Just Media LLC, offering mediation and nonviolent communication services to underrepresented communities. Their neighborhood was directly impacted by the Eaton Canyon Fires—an experience that led to their involvement with No Res Gourmet. Shannon’s conflict resolution leadership is central to creating safer, more inclusive spaces across the organization. They love capoeira, soccer, and underground hip hop.
Firas Ayyad
Founder, Director of Operations
Firas, has a rich background in social activism and the non-profit sector, and holds a Masters in International Affairs and Economics from UC San Diego. Driven by a lifelong passion for service and community building, he's worked with many local and international charities, including a program with the United Nations in Palestinian refugee camps in the West Bank.
As a Palestinian refugee himself, Firas deeply connected with the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, particularly the homeless in Los Angeles. Motivated to make a tangible difference, he started a small initiative from his home kitchen, which grew into a significant non-profit that has served over 100,000 meals and fostered partnerships with shelters and organizations.
A passionate musician, Firas has managed a sound camp at Burning Man for several years. His love for music and community gatherings played a crucial role in shaping the vision for No Res Gourmet, intertwining his interests in celebration and service to create impactful, positive change.
Erik Armstrong
VP, Director of Community Relations
Erik's involvement in local and international non-profit projects spans many years. As the co-founder and operator of the UmSo Water Project, he has been instrumental in building water wells in remote Amazon Jungle villages, addressing the critical water needs of tribal communities. Additionally, Erik leads efforts to establish intentional communities globally, including a collaborative village in Bahia, Brazil.
Erik's advocacy for the homeless led him to No Res Gourmet, where he evolved from volunteer to a pivotal role, significantly contributing to the organization's growth and partnership development. His culinary expertise and commitment to a plant-based lifestyle were key in founding the Community Permaculture Program, teaching food sovereignty and sustainable agriculture to schoolchildren.
As an organizer and operator of a major Burning Man camp, Erik ensures thousands are fed annually at the event. His ethos and dedication continuously keep No Res Gourmet's mission in alignment, intertwining community service and engagement.
E. Shay Omolabi
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Shay Omolabi is a dedicated philanthropist and community advocate with deep roots in fundraising, networking, and resource mobilization. Growing up in Brixton, South London, he experienced firsthand the challenges of economic disparities, shaping his lifelong commitment to uplifting underserved communities.
With extensive experience in securing major donations, cultivating high-profile partnerships, and mobilizing resources, Shay has played a critical role in expanding access to aid for vulnerable populations. His efforts in fundraising and strategic networking have brought significant contributions to No Res Gourmet, helping to scale its impact and outreach.
Beyond fundraising, Shay is deeply involved in hands-on service, mentoring youth, and supporting displaced individuals through initiatives that provide food, shelter, and essential supplies.
George Stavrianidis
Board Treasurer
George is a key member of No Res Gourmet's Board of Directors, serving as Treasurer, bringing his extensive fintech expertise. As the Founder and CEO of an innovative fintech firm, he has a deep commitment to financial innovation. George's financial prowess was developed at Prudential Private Capital, where he demonstrated significant skill in financial analysis and business evaluation, particularly in distressed debt and restructuring. His experience includes managing major capital deals for prominent non-profits, showcasing his understanding of non-profit finances.
George's tenure at Morgan Stanley's macro trading desk further refined his expertise, enhancing his understanding of global markets. He holds a double major in Finance and Economics from Rutgers University, underpinning his robust financial acumen. George's comprehensive financial knowledge and experience are vital to guiding No Res Gourmet's financial strategy and mission.
