Member Spotlight: Sarah Sharif
Meet Sarah Sharif
Raised in the UK, Sarah Sharif is a dual British-American citizen, futurist, author, and speaker based in Manhattan. She is the Founder of Futura Apex Advisory and works in digital health innovation and clinical AI strategy at one of New York's leading health systems. Her debut book, The Future Is Taboo, arrives from Georgetown University Press in 2027. A Vogue Business winner who has spoken at Oxford and the Dubai Future Forum, Sarah is also a budding watercolor painter, an Everest Base Camp trekker, and walks the Great Saunter, all 32 miles around Manhattan's edge in one day, every year.
How did you get involved with SGSNY?
I attended an event as a guest in 2023, and what stayed with me wasn't the evening itself, lovely as it was, but learning about the Society's mission to help New Yorkers in need. I became a member in 2025, though truthfully my mind was made up that first night. For someone raised in the UK now building a life here, it felt like finding a piece of home I hadn't known was missing.
What’s your favorite part of being an SGSNY member?
The people, without a doubt, and the joy of sharing the traditions I grew up with as a child: Pancake Day, a proper roast dinner, and the instinct to reach for the kettle and a biscuit when life goes topsy-turvy. And the sense of humour, which is huge for me; how do you even begin to explain James Acaster to anyone? I've seen him live in both London and New York, and I'm still not sure I could. I've come to realise there's a deep appreciation in simply sharing a laugh with another human. In the end, the little, simple things matter the most.
How has being part of SGSNY helped you as a newer New Yorker (personally and/or professionally)?
New York rewards you for building your own village, and SGSNY has become part of mine. I have loved attending the events, from the Carol Singing and the World Cup games to the British Ball, and each one has introduced me to new friends. The SGSNY has given me friendships that understand both halves of who I am, the British roots and the American life, without having a need to explain or perform. I love being able to just show up as I am. More than anything, being a member has made me feel more at home here in the city.
What’s your favorite place in NYC? Favorite food or meal you’ve had since moving here?
The Met Opera, without question. My first visit to New York happened to fall during a February blizzard, and on a snowy Tuesday evening I took the slow ride uptown to see Rusalka. I was utterly smitten before the curtain fell, and over 40 shows later, the Met has become a second home.
As for food, I love cooking at home, but when I do go out, it's to appreciate the genius of the chefs. The night I'll never forget was a celebration at Per Se with Chef Thomas Keller in September 2024, marking 30 years of The French Laundry and 20 of Per Se. Craft, passion, history, and hospitality all in one room. I know it's a splurge, but you'll never forget it.
If you have any questions regarding membership, please don't hesitate to contact the team at membership@stgeorgessociety.org or visit our Membership Page for more information.