At an age when many young people are still exploring their interests and future careers, Sanaah Pande has chosen a different path—one defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
A senior in high school, Sanaah is simultaneously earning college credit through San José City College’s (SJCC) Dual Enrollment Program, where she recently established a scholarship through the San José-Evergreen Community College District Foundation to support a student pursuing a career in dental assisting. The scholarship will help cover tuition, books, and educational supplies, reducing financial barriers for a future healthcare professional.
Sanaah’s commitment to service extends far beyond the classroom. She is the founder of Hope Works for Veterans, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to dental care for veterans. Through her efforts, the organization has helped provide more than $150,000 in free advanced dental treatment, including dental implants, to veterans in need.
Through her work with veterans and her exposure to the dental profession, Sanaah became aware of the growing need for skilled dental assistants and the important role they play in patient care. Inspired to make a difference, she chose to invest in the next generation of healthcare professionals through a scholarship at SJCC.
Perhaps even more inspiring is how the scholarship is funded. Instead of relying on donations, Sanaah personally contributes the proceeds she earns working as a restaurant server and from her international modeling assignments, which have taken her to fashion events around the world, including Paris Fashion week 2025 and Tokyo Fashion 2026.
Whether she is serving tables after school or walking an international runway, Sanaah views every opportunity as another chance to invest in someone else’s future.
SJCC has long believed that education transforms lives—not only for students but also for the communities they serve. Her scholarship reflects this belief in the power of education, service, and creating opportunities for others. Through this gift, Sanaah is helping future dental assistants pursue their goals while continuing her mission of making a positive impact in the lives of others.
“I’ve been fortunate to have opportunities,” she says. “If I can use those opportunities to help someone else build a career while also helping veterans receive better care, then every hour I work is worth it.”