Founder, Creative Director

Kaitlin Obien-Thompson, is a Southern California raised Filipina-American that was planted in NYC for a purpose greater than she imagined. Kaitlin comes from generations of ministry originating in the Philippines.

After moving to NYC to pursue musical theater, she began looking for Christian community — specifically with other young women walking in faith.

Now in her sixth year in the city, the community she dreamt for her younger self is now being realized through Dwell.

Executive Director

Tatum Howard is originally from Olympia, Washington and moved to NYC in 2018 to study Musical Theatre. She attended AMDA Conservatory and The New School where she received her BFA in Musical Theater Performance.

Tatum met Kaitlin at AMDA and they became fast friends because of their love for Jesus.

Dwell embodies the community Tatum wished she had when she first moved to the city six years ago.

Community Engagement & Outreach Coordinator

Shirley Valentín is an NYC native, Bronx-born, and Dominican American with a BS in Health Education and Promotion. Passionate about building community and creating spaces of belonging, she serves with a heart for faith, connection, and a touch of humor.

Shirley brings that authentic Bronx energy and heart to everything she does. Rooted in a love for wellness, books, music, and art, she creates spaces where people feel truly seen and connected.

Through her journey, she’s committed to helping others grow in their faith and find belonging at Dwell.

Discipleship & Formation Coordinator

Saige Gilroy is a native New Yorker from Queens that loves to build community, try new activities, and visit different cities.

Outside of working in Finance, she is passionate about the things of God— from running her two Christian businesses to obtaining a Christian Apologetics certificate from Biola University.

Outside of Dwell, she currently serves as the Youth Ministry Lead at her church, Hempstead Assembly of God. Her desire is to be surrounded by women who desire to walk in the ways of the Lord and plant seeds for the Kingdom.