DRIVEN - Key Persons


Brandi Kurka

Job Titles:
  • Executive Director
Brandi attended the Indiana University of Pennsylvania for her B.S. in Exercise Science, and Slippery Rock University for her M.S. in Adapted Physical Activity. She has been working with people with disabilities for over 15 years in various settings including exercise therapy for individuals with neurological conditions, adapted sports, personal care, community homes, and recreational therapy.

Demitria Larry

Job Titles:
  • Program Director

Jennine Hermosura

Job Titles:
  • Head ABT Trainer
Jennine was born in Las Vegas, Nevada and although she did live in Indiana and Illinois during her elementary years, she considers herself to be born and raised in Vegas. She attended University of Nevada - Las Vegas where she obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology. She has prior experience working as a Rehabilitation Technician at a physical therapy clinic. She is very passionate about softball being that she played for 6 years. She also self taught herself how to play guitar and bass, which she is very passionate about as well.

Sam Schmidt - Founder

Job Titles:
  • Founder
Sam is a resident of the Las Vegas area. He was a driver in the Indy Racing League before suffering an injury in practice in January 2000 in which he sustained a C-3/4/5 spinal cord injury that left him a quadriplegic. He created the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation (SSPF) that year to raise funds for medical research, innovative equipment used for rehabilitation, and quality-of-life issues. In 2014, the foundation was rebranded as Conquer Paralysis Now with a mission to cure paralysis while assisting those who are already disabled. To date in total, the organizations have invested more than $15 million in research and programs looking to cure paralysis and support people with disabilities to live better lives.

Tyler Yamanouchi

Job Titles:
  • Fitness Director
Tyler was born and raised in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. He earned his bachelors in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. After graduating, Tyler gained experience working at a rehabilitation hospital, chiropractic office, and was a strength and conditioning coach for high school athletes. He enjoys weight lifting and is also a personal trainer. He is passionate about helping others reach their highest potential.