OUR TEAM
Shasta Molnar
Founder & CEO
​
Shasta Molnar is the owner and creative vision behind all of the after school, camps, classes -- and amazing ARRRTY parties at Sky Village NYC!
Shasta holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her early career was spent working with children teaching art and theater at Rowland Hall Elementary School in Salt Lake City, Utah. After moving to New York City in 2005 Shasta worked for Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick as their family nanny.
​
Before welcoming the arrival of her first daughter in 2013, Shasta enjoyed some success as an artist showing her work at the Provincetown Art Association in Cape Cod, Massachusettes and Mountain Trails Art Gallery in Sedona, Arizona.
​
Compelled to share her passion for art with her children and community Shasta opened SHASTYE Art Gallery and Play Space in 2015.
Shasta began development of Sky Village NYC in 2018, where she now paints and operates weekly art based educational classes for children.
Future goals include painting "Flowers of Astoria", a passion project Shasta is excited to pursue.
​
Jasmina Yilmaz
Early Childhood Specialist and Lead Instructor
​
Jasmina, is our Early Childhood Specialist and Lead Instructor at Sky Village NYC. She also holds several certificates in trauma-informed yoga for children.
As an Early Childhood Education Specialist and Lead Instructor in our Pre-School Alternative, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Jasmina is also a loving mother to her child, Ayla, adding a personal touch to her understanding of children's needs.
​
Josue Palio
Head Caregiver and Security
​
Josue has been an integral part of Sky Village since 2022, contributing his skills and expertise as a caregiver and Jiu-jitsu referee to create a positive and engaging environment for the children.
Formally a Marine combat veteran, Josue studied at St. John’s and received a degree in Criminal justice with a minor in math. He has his IT specialists certification as well, and is a Jiujitsu purple belt.
​
Tara Pizzi
Assistant Event Coordinator
​​
Tara Pizzi brings imagination and heart to everything she does at Sky Village NYC. As our Event Coordinator, she curates experiences that celebrate creativity, connection, and community. Her thoughtful approach ensures that every Sky Village event feels meaningful and full of joy.
Beyond her work at Sky Village NYC, Tara is also a children’s book author whose debut title, Harley the Tiger, has been delighting families across Queens. The story reflects her deep appreciation for storytelling, imagination, and emotional growth — themes she weaves naturally into the events she produces and the programs she supports.
A graduate of Marymount Manhattan College, Tara’s creative background in writing, film, theatre, and dance continues to inspire her work with children and families. Whether planning a community celebration or reading to a group of preschoolers, Tara’s passion for nurturing creativity shines through in every detail.
Manuela Papadakis Rrezhda
Caregiver
​
Manuela is originally from Manizales, Colombia, and recently completed high school and is now pursuing an accelerated B.A. in Business Management.
A dedicated and energetic individual, Manuela has been practicing Mixed Martial Arts for over three years and also teaches MMA to children ages 8–12 at her studio. Her passion for movement and discipline extends beyond the mat—she loves staying active, working out, and taking on new physical challenges.
Outside of training, Manuela enjoys cooking, watching movies, and spending time with her dog and friends. She’s also loved exploring New York City and discovering all the unique experiences it has to offer.
Kamilla Moshenskaya
Caregiver
​
Currently a student at Hunter College majoring in Medical Laboratory Science, Kamilla is originally from Russia and brings her love of movement, intelligence, and teamwork to our program. She has extensive experience in ballroom dance, which has played a key role in shaping her artistic and professional development.
​
In addition to dance, Kamilla has trained in sambo and judo, disciplines that have helped her build focus, discipline, and confidence. When she’s not studying or teaching, she enjoys playing volleyball and creating handmade crafts. Now based in Brooklyn, Kamilla loves exploring New York City’s vibrant creative and cultural scene.
Hannah Wong
Caregiver
​
Hannah comes to us as a bilingual Mandarin educator with 10+ years of experience teaching children ages 4–10 in Hong Kong. Fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese, she brings a warm, creative approach to early language learning—pairing songs, stories, games, and hands-on activities to build confidence and curiosity in every class. Beyond the classroom, Hannah has assisted in children’s jiu-jitsu programs, where she nurtures focus, resilience, and teamwork—skills she loves weaving into her lessons.
Originally from Hong Kong, Hannah moved to Astoria last year and is excited to be part of the New York community. When she’s not teaching, you’ll find her crocheting playful projects—most recently a patch of festive pumpkin decorations for Halloween!
Coach Quinn
Queens Jiu-jitsu
​
Ryan C. Quinn is a Renzo-Gracie Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, he is also the Owner and Program Director at Queens Jiu-jitsu (22-55 31st. St. Astoria, NY, 11105).​​
