What We Do
Knead was founded by best friends Nikhil Sarvaiya and Max Coleman, who shared a vision of fighting hunger and reducing food waste in their community. Recognizing the abundance of surplus bread going unused, they forged a partnership with Puritan Bakery in Carson, using their own cars to deliver bread every Saturday to local food banks.
What began as a small operation quickly gained momentum as Cyrus Zahiri joined the leadership team, and as more volunteers and drivers joined the effort, enabling Knead to expand its reach across the greater Los Angeles area. By building partnerships with additional bakeries and community organizations, Knead continues to grow its impact, ensuring fresh bread reaches those who need it most.
With a deep commitment to ending food insecurity, Knead is driven by the belief that no food should be wasted when it can provide sustenance and hope. Through every delivery, we aim to nourish bodies, uplift spirits, and work toward a world where no one goes hungry—one bun at a time.
Meet the Executive Directors
Max Coleman
Max Coleman is a junior at Harvard-Westlake School with a deep and long standing passion for nutrition and its potential to create positive change. Recognizing the power of food to nourish not just the body but also the spirit, Max co-founded Knead with his best friend. Driven by a commitment to addressing food insecurity in his community, Max hopes to make a tangible difference, transforming his interest in nutrition into meaningful actions that uplift those in need. Max remains focused on the core values that inspired him to take action. He views Knead not just as a project, but as a platform to inspire others to recognize the power of simple acts of kindness and their ability to transform lives.
Nikhil Sarvaiya
Nikhil Sarvaiya is a junior at Harvard-Westlake School who has long been passionate about addressing homelessness and food insecurity, driven by a deep commitment to making a difference in his community. He believes that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves access to nourishment and dignity. Nikhil is dedicated to utilizing Knead as a platform to combat hunger, support those in need, and foster a more inclusive, compassionate community. His work is centered around creating opportunities for all to thrive, with a focus on building lasting, positive change.
Cyrus Zahiri
Cyrus Zahiri is a junior at Harvard-Westlake School, where he passionately believes in the role of food as a vital connection for communities. As an athlete, he recognizes the importance of proper nutrition for maintaining health and well-being. His leadership at Knead reflects his deep commitment to reducing food waste and fighting hunger, ensuring that fresh bread reaches those who need it. With a focus on conservation and community wellness, Cyrus strives to make a lasting impact, demonstrating that compassion and action can create meaningful change. Through his work, he aims to foster a stronger, healthier community for everyone.