Youth Leadership BoardOur Youth Leadership Board consists of 12 members who meet monthly to provide feedback & design future programming.
Youth Leaders participate in and facilitate monthly leadership trainings on topics like public speaking, self-care, how to have difficult conversations, time management, and more. Youth Leaders receive a stipend for their time and energy. |
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Meet Our Youth Leadership Board
ASHLEY
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ARIANA
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DARLA
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LESLIE
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YASMIN
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LESLY
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ALANNYS
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JODY-ANN
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SOMAIYA
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YANIEL
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Advisory BoardOur advisory board consists of professionals across different industries, backgrounds, and experiences who help strengthen, develop, and improve the Brave House's programs and activities. |
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Meet Our Advisory Board
ELISA
Director of People, AngelList |
SAM
Public Art Manager & Artist |
EDITH
Staff Attorney at Make the Road NY |
SALINA
Immigrant Youth Advocate, The Door |
HELEN
Therapist, Sanctuary for Families |
DEIRDRE
Attorney, Murtha Cullina LLP |
STEPHANIE
Senior Associate, The Raben Group |
CANDI
Teacher Assistant & Ph.D student |
MORGAN
Program Coordinator at the Council on Foreign Relations |
HANNAH B
Lead Clinician, Abbott House |
SHIYULLI
Strategy & Operations at Microsoft |
EMMA
Director of the Food & Agriculture Clinic and Associate Professor, Vermont Law School |
HANNAH M
Talent Development Consultant and Career & Wellness Coach, Hannah McGowan Coaching |
DANNEY
Immigration & Human Rights Attorney |
ERIKA
Strategy and Program Management Associate at PwC |
YESSENIA
Immigrant Support Specialist |
ELISA
Student of Social Worker Program |
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DarlaMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Queens, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Being Brave to me means pushing past fear, hesitancy, and anxiety and following through. I think it's confronting things that are hard and at times unbearable when we have no desire to. |
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Biography.
Darla grew up in Queens, NY. She is passionate about politics, social justice, the environment. In her free time she loves to read, garden, or sing. As of now she is a recent graduate of Brooklyn College, with a Bachelors degree in Political Science.
Darla grew up in Queens, NY. She is passionate about politics, social justice, the environment. In her free time she loves to read, garden, or sing. As of now she is a recent graduate of Brooklyn College, with a Bachelors degree in Political Science.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Haiti |
ArianaMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Bronx, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Being resilient and going for what you want. |
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Biography.
Ariana was born in Mexico and has been living the Bronx for the last 21 years. Ever since she was little she knew her calling was to be a teacher and now she's a lead teacher in the infant/toddler classroom at a Montessori school in Brooklyn. She's a very free spirit and always up for anything so she enjoys any new adventure that comes.
Ariana was born in Mexico and has been living the Bronx for the last 21 years. Ever since she was little she knew her calling was to be a teacher and now she's a lead teacher in the infant/toddler classroom at a Montessori school in Brooklyn. She's a very free spirit and always up for anything so she enjoys any new adventure that comes.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Mexico |
Jamyle Member of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Brooklyn, NY Pronouns. she/her What "Brave" means to you. Brave means to keep pushing through adversity. |
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Biography.
Ecuatoriana & Puertorriqueña, Jamyle is a recent graduate from John Jay College of Criminal Justice with a major in Law & Society and a minor in Law. Having always been drawn to the fields of fashion, technology, and entertainment, she is now actively seeking job opportunities that combine her passion for these industries. With a deep-rooted desire to give back and a commitment to personal growth, her ultimate aspiration is to become a lawyer specializing in those fields and establish a non-profit organization in her hometown of Gualaceo, Ecuador to provide much-needed support and assistance to underprivileged children.
Ecuatoriana & Puertorriqueña, Jamyle is a recent graduate from John Jay College of Criminal Justice with a major in Law & Society and a minor in Law. Having always been drawn to the fields of fashion, technology, and entertainment, she is now actively seeking job opportunities that combine her passion for these industries. With a deep-rooted desire to give back and a commitment to personal growth, her ultimate aspiration is to become a lawyer specializing in those fields and establish a non-profit organization in her hometown of Gualaceo, Ecuador to provide much-needed support and assistance to underprivileged children.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Gualaceo, Ecuador & Hatillo, Puerto Rico |
LeslyMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Queens, NY Pronouns. she/Her What "Brave" means to you. For me, being brave means to be your authentic self no matter what others think. |
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Biography.
Lesly grew up in Ecuador and moved to the United States when she was 18 to find better opportunities for her and her family. She loves going out for walks while listening to music to clear her mind. In her free time, she likes to explore the city and go out with friends. She's currently a fellow at the Immigrant Student Success Center at John Jay and at the Leadership Center for Social Justice at City College.
Lesly grew up in Ecuador and moved to the United States when she was 18 to find better opportunities for her and her family. She loves going out for walks while listening to music to clear her mind. In her free time, she likes to explore the city and go out with friends. She's currently a fellow at the Immigrant Student Success Center at John Jay and at the Leadership Center for Social Justice at City College.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Ecuador |
Jody-AnnMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Bronx, NY Pronouns. she/her What "Brave" means to you. Just do it! Will they think you’re weird? Maybe. But will they always remember you? Ya! :) |
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Biography.
Jody-Ann is a student at John Jay college studying forensic psychology with a minor digital media and journalism. She is from Jamaica and she has a great passion for photography!
Jody-Ann is a student at John Jay college studying forensic psychology with a minor digital media and journalism. She is from Jamaica and she has a great passion for photography!
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Jamaica |
FatouMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Bronx, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Brave to me means always being yourself and not being afraid to show it and regardless of how many times you've failed, you still get back up and try again. |
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Biography.
Fatou is a senior at John Jay College Of Criminal Justice majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Counseling. Although she’s not sure exactly what career path to take after graduation, she aspires to help people - whatever that may look like. Fatou was born in a small country in west Africa called Gambia, but because of her father’s career in the government, she moved around a lot. She enjoys playing soccer and meeting new people.
Fatou is a senior at John Jay College Of Criminal Justice majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Counseling. Although she’s not sure exactly what career path to take after graduation, she aspires to help people - whatever that may look like. Fatou was born in a small country in west Africa called Gambia, but because of her father’s career in the government, she moved around a lot. She enjoys playing soccer and meeting new people.
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Banjul, The Gambia |
AlannysMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Brooklyn, NY Pronouns. she/her What "Brave" means to you. Brave to me means facing fears and challenges head-on, even when it’s tough. |
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Biography.
Alannys grew up in Mexico and she's half Mexican and Puerto Rican. Something that she's very passionate about is dancing and singing and what she always does in her free time is watching love movies. She's in her first year of college.
Alannys grew up in Mexico and she's half Mexican and Puerto Rican. Something that she's very passionate about is dancing and singing and what she always does in her free time is watching love movies. She's in her first year of college.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Puerto Rico & Mexico |
Leslie Member of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Bronx, NY Pronouns. she/her What "Brave" means to you. Taking risk and showing up even when it's scary or uncomfortable! |
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Biography.
Leslie Ramirez Carbajal currently supports undocumented and immigrant students at Brooklyn College's Immigrant Student Success Office as the Program Coordinator. Previously, Leslie worked at John Jay’s Immigrant Student Success Center, the first center within CUNY. After graduating from John Jay College in 2020 with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Spanish Legal Interpreting/Translation, Leslie joined her local Senate district office to provide services to constituents. Her hobbies include listening to podcast and watching Marvel movies.
Leslie Ramirez Carbajal currently supports undocumented and immigrant students at Brooklyn College's Immigrant Student Success Office as the Program Coordinator. Previously, Leslie worked at John Jay’s Immigrant Student Success Center, the first center within CUNY. After graduating from John Jay College in 2020 with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Spanish Legal Interpreting/Translation, Leslie joined her local Senate district office to provide services to constituents. Her hobbies include listening to podcast and watching Marvel movies.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Mexico |
SomaiyaMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Brooklyn, NY Pronouns. she/her What "Brave" means to you. To me, bravery means loving yourself and others unconditionally. It means persevering through life's challenges, even when the weight of the world feels overwhelming. It means overcoming the fear of judgment and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. It also means standing up for what you believe in, taking risks, and advocating for those who need it, even when it's not easy. |
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Biography.
Somaiya grew up in Brooklyn, New York in the heart of Kensington Heights. Throughout her childhood, she always had a keen interest for the arts and humanities which translates to her current passions for healthcare equity, mental health awareness, and filmmaking. As a marketing student at Brooklyn College and part time specialist at Apple retail, she is drawn to the connection between business and technology. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, writing, and being in nature.
Somaiya grew up in Brooklyn, New York in the heart of Kensington Heights. Throughout her childhood, she always had a keen interest for the arts and humanities which translates to her current passions for healthcare equity, mental health awareness, and filmmaking. As a marketing student at Brooklyn College and part time specialist at Apple retail, she is drawn to the connection between business and technology. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, writing, and being in nature.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Bangladesh |
KellyMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Bronx, NY Pronouns. She/ Her What “Brave” means to you. Brave to me implies a certain strength to be able to stand up for something, whether it's injustices or simply going against the status quo, as a way of expressing what you believe in. |
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Biography.
Kelly is currently pursuing a degree in Political Science at CCNY (CUNY) with double minors in Human Rights and Women and Gender Studies. Her academic focus explores the intersectionality of gender, race, and ethnicity, particularly as they relate to climate, and human rights, within both legal and policy frameworks. During her free time, she enjoys reading books of all genres, listening to her curated playlists when she's studying and watching Letterbox recommendations. She shared: "I am so beyond thankful to have found a supportive community of women like me here at the Brave House."
Kelly is currently pursuing a degree in Political Science at CCNY (CUNY) with double minors in Human Rights and Women and Gender Studies. Her academic focus explores the intersectionality of gender, race, and ethnicity, particularly as they relate to climate, and human rights, within both legal and policy frameworks. During her free time, she enjoys reading books of all genres, listening to her curated playlists when she's studying and watching Letterbox recommendations. She shared: "I am so beyond thankful to have found a supportive community of women like me here at the Brave House."
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Puebla, Mexico |
AshleyMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Queens, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Never backing down from a challenge and always try one’s hardest. |
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Biography.
Ashley moved from Trinidad to NYC when she was 16 years old with her mom for better opportunities. She is currently a student at John Jay where she is a Peer Advocate Fellow through the Immigrant Student Success Center. Some of her interests are baking, F1, and watching period dramas.
Ashley moved from Trinidad to NYC when she was 16 years old with her mom for better opportunities. She is currently a student at John Jay where she is a Peer Advocate Fellow through the Immigrant Student Success Center. Some of her interests are baking, F1, and watching period dramas.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Trinidad and Tobago |
YasminMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Brooklyn, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Being your unapologetic self. Taking the road less traveled, and feeling content even when standing alone. |
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Biography.
Yasmin was born and raised in Brooklyn. She is passionate about business, film, and activism. She cares deeply for women’s rights. In her free time, she loves traveling, watching films, writing stories, taking photographs/videos of nature, and hanging out with friends.
Yasmin was born and raised in Brooklyn. She is passionate about business, film, and activism. She cares deeply for women’s rights. In her free time, she loves traveling, watching films, writing stories, taking photographs/videos of nature, and hanging out with friends.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Morocco |
YanielMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Brooklyn, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Being Brave is embracing your authentic self without apology and facing discomfort with courage. |
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Biography.
Born and raised in Jamaica, Yaniel is a true island gal, who initially aspired to become a doctor or nurse. However, through her lived experiences and the journey of navigating different systems, she discovered a new passion: amplifying youth voices as a peer advocate. Yaniel now works as a case manager, providing direct services to young people who have experienced gender-based violence. She is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Biology with a minor in Social Welfare at Medgar Evers CUNY. As an immigrant in NYC, Yaniel enjoys exploring diverse cultures, spending time with friends and family, cooking, and watching documentaries.
Born and raised in Jamaica, Yaniel is a true island gal, who initially aspired to become a doctor or nurse. However, through her lived experiences and the journey of navigating different systems, she discovered a new passion: amplifying youth voices as a peer advocate. Yaniel now works as a case manager, providing direct services to young people who have experienced gender-based violence. She is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Biology with a minor in Social Welfare at Medgar Evers CUNY. As an immigrant in NYC, Yaniel enjoys exploring diverse cultures, spending time with friends and family, cooking, and watching documentaries.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Jamaica |
Morgan PerryAdvisory Board.
Job. Program Coordinator at the Council on Foreign Relations Home. New York, NY What “Brave” means to you. I think true bravery constitutes a lot that isn’t conventionally heroic, or courageous in the face of danger, or superhuman, historic, defying all fear whatsoever. It can be getting by, surviving – or being bold, speaking out – or otherwise engaging with something that intimidates but demands the right thing. It is following your gut; it is giving something your all when success isn't guaranteed; it is taking a chance with positivity and a growth-mindset – it is hoping for the best with commitment and passion. |
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Biography.
Morgan, born and raised in New York City, graduated magna cum laude from Hamilton College with a major in World Politics and a focus on migration and MENA studies. Morgan's experiences in educational, non-profit, and political advocacy has led her to work for PEN America, the Yemen Peace Project, Citizens Committee, and, most recently, Senate Majority Leader Schumer's office for two years. Morgan has studied abroad and conducted research in Uruguay, Jordan, Italy, and Tunisia, and just returned from Turkey after completing a Fulbright Scholarship at the İzmir Institute of Technology (İYTE). Morgan is deeply passionate about survivors' advocacy and loves learning new languages (as a lifelong student of Spanish and Arabic). Morgan is now a Program Coordinator at the Council on Foreign Relations.
Morgan, born and raised in New York City, graduated magna cum laude from Hamilton College with a major in World Politics and a focus on migration and MENA studies. Morgan's experiences in educational, non-profit, and political advocacy has led her to work for PEN America, the Yemen Peace Project, Citizens Committee, and, most recently, Senate Majority Leader Schumer's office for two years. Morgan has studied abroad and conducted research in Uruguay, Jordan, Italy, and Tunisia, and just returned from Turkey after completing a Fulbright Scholarship at the İzmir Institute of Technology (İYTE). Morgan is deeply passionate about survivors' advocacy and loves learning new languages (as a lifelong student of Spanish and Arabic). Morgan is now a Program Coordinator at the Council on Foreign Relations.
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Where did you / your family immigrate from?
Long Island! Though, some generations ago, Ireland, Wales, and Germany |
Danney SalvatierraImmigration & Human Rights Attorney.
Home. New York, NY Pronouns. she/her/hers What "Brave" means to you. Being brave means having the courage to follow your heart. To be human is to be brave. |
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Biography.
Danney Salvatierra was born in Peru and immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 13. Danney completed her undergraduate studies in Political Science and Global Media Communication at Florida International University. Specialized fields of study include: political repression and human rights, international relations, Latin American foreign policy, and global economic and social affairs. Danney also utilized her communications degree to explore the field of public relations and marketing. She worked as a public relations specialist for an art company located in Wynwood, Miami. After spending a year working with artists and curators, she found a true passion for visual arts, film, photography, poetry, and storytelling. These art forms remain her favorite hobbies.
Prior to law school, she traveled as a volunteer to rural areas in Latin America to work on sanitation and education projects for underdeveloped communities. She received her law degree from New York Law School. During her law school career, Danney was actively involved with the Latin American Law Students Association (LALSA) and the Immigration Law Students Association (ILSA). She worked as a legal intern for human rights organizations such as Church World Service and Human Rights First. In that capacity, she has advocated for immigrant children, families, and refugee communities. She also participated in New York Law School’s asylum clinic, where she helped a couple obtain asylum in the United States after facing years of persecution in their home country due to their sexuality. Since graduating law school, Danney has provided legal representation to vulnerable communities during her time working as a staff attorney at African Services Committee and Make The Road NY in the areas of affirmative and defensive immigration matters, landlord/tenant, family, public benefits, and advanced directives.
Today, Danney is a probono immigration attorney for The Brave House. She is also working on employment-based immigrant visas for U.S.-based companies, specifically restaurants (freelance).
Spanish is Danney’s first language. She loves to learn new languages. She is currently trying to learn French and Dutch!
Danney Salvatierra was born in Peru and immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 13. Danney completed her undergraduate studies in Political Science and Global Media Communication at Florida International University. Specialized fields of study include: political repression and human rights, international relations, Latin American foreign policy, and global economic and social affairs. Danney also utilized her communications degree to explore the field of public relations and marketing. She worked as a public relations specialist for an art company located in Wynwood, Miami. After spending a year working with artists and curators, she found a true passion for visual arts, film, photography, poetry, and storytelling. These art forms remain her favorite hobbies.
Prior to law school, she traveled as a volunteer to rural areas in Latin America to work on sanitation and education projects for underdeveloped communities. She received her law degree from New York Law School. During her law school career, Danney was actively involved with the Latin American Law Students Association (LALSA) and the Immigration Law Students Association (ILSA). She worked as a legal intern for human rights organizations such as Church World Service and Human Rights First. In that capacity, she has advocated for immigrant children, families, and refugee communities. She also participated in New York Law School’s asylum clinic, where she helped a couple obtain asylum in the United States after facing years of persecution in their home country due to their sexuality. Since graduating law school, Danney has provided legal representation to vulnerable communities during her time working as a staff attorney at African Services Committee and Make The Road NY in the areas of affirmative and defensive immigration matters, landlord/tenant, family, public benefits, and advanced directives.
Today, Danney is a probono immigration attorney for The Brave House. She is also working on employment-based immigrant visas for U.S.-based companies, specifically restaurants (freelance).
Spanish is Danney’s first language. She loves to learn new languages. She is currently trying to learn French and Dutch!
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did you/your family immigrate from?
Peru |
Yessenia MorenoAdvisory Board.
Job. Immigrant Support Specialist. Home. Queens, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. To be unapologetically you. |
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Biography.
After growing up in Mexico City, Yessi migrated to New York City with her family at the age of 7. She is the first member of her family to graduate from college and pursue a career in education. Her passions include skating on weekends, dancing, writing, and expressing her creativity through arts and crafts.
After growing up in Mexico City, Yessi migrated to New York City with her family at the age of 7. She is the first member of her family to graduate from college and pursue a career in education. Her passions include skating on weekends, dancing, writing, and expressing her creativity through arts and crafts.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Mexico City |
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Tenzin Choeyang
App Navigator.
Home. Queens, NY Pronouns. she/her/hers What “Brave” means to you. Being able to speak your mind. |
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Biography.
Tenzin was born and raised in India. She is of Tibetan descent. She spea Tibetan, Hindi and English. Tenzin went to St. Lawrence University to study Economics and currently works in finance. Her passions include educating people on financial literacy and creating space for Tibetan Americans to speak about their experiences through Positionality podcast.
Tenzin was born and raised in India. She is of Tibetan descent. She spea Tibetan, Hindi and English. Tenzin went to St. Lawrence University to study Economics and currently works in finance. Her passions include educating people on financial literacy and creating space for Tibetan Americans to speak about their experiences through Positionality podcast.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did you/your family immigrate from?
India |
Elisa ReyesHome. Mexico City, MX
Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What "Brave" means to you. Never letting your fear take you away from your dreams. Keep trying to determine your future without knowing what will happen. |
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Biography.
Elisa was born and raised in Honduras and decided to immigrate to the USA when she was 17 years old. She is extremely passionate about photography and self- care My family is the most valuable gift that she could ever receive in her life. In her free time she loves to enjoy the company of my friends, good music, watch romance, drama and comedy shows. She loves to enjoy little things that can cross her path.
Elisa was born and raised in Honduras and decided to immigrate to the USA when she was 17 years old. She is extremely passionate about photography and self- care My family is the most valuable gift that she could ever receive in her life. In her free time she loves to enjoy the company of my friends, good music, watch romance, drama and comedy shows. She loves to enjoy little things that can cross her path.
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Honduras |
Erika GamaJob. Strategy and Program Management Associate at PwC.
Home. Mexico City, MX. Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What "Brave" means to you. Acting with empathy and being relentlessly optimistic. |
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Biography.
Erika graduated with a Bachelor’s in International Relations from Universidad Anáhuac in Mexico City in 2021. She is passionate about advancing social justice through gender-focused and youth-led solutions and has interned for Ashoka and the Mexican Council of Foreign Affairs. Erika also loves to watch basketball and can often be found reading (and heavily underlining) books.
Erika graduated with a Bachelor’s in International Relations from Universidad Anáhuac in Mexico City in 2021. She is passionate about advancing social justice through gender-focused and youth-led solutions and has interned for Ashoka and the Mexican Council of Foreign Affairs. Erika also loves to watch basketball and can often be found reading (and heavily underlining) books.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Alondra Candi Aca GarciaAdvisory Board.
Job. Teacher Assistant & Ph.D student Home. Brooklyn, NY Pronouns. She/ her/ hers What “Brave” means to you. Brave means to have the power of choosing your own destiny, to defy odds, and break down barriers even when you are uncertain of the outcomes. |
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Biography.
Candi is originally from Brooklyn and currently lives upstate where she is pursuing her Ph.D in Anthropology. Candi received her Bachelor's degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2020, and she received her Masters in Anthropology in 2022. She enjoys reading, skateboarding, and painting in her free time. She currently teaches discussion sections at the university and volunteers with the Brave House as an art teacher.
Candi is originally from Brooklyn and currently lives upstate where she is pursuing her Ph.D in Anthropology. Candi received her Bachelor's degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2020, and she received her Masters in Anthropology in 2022. She enjoys reading, skateboarding, and painting in her free time. She currently teaches discussion sections at the university and volunteers with the Brave House as an art teacher.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Mexico |
Advisory Board.
Job. Attorney, Murtha Cullina LLP Home. Winthrop, MA What "Brave" means to you. Living with compassion and grace at times when it’s extra hard to do so. |
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Biography.
Deirdre is an attorney in Murtha Cullina's Boston office where her focus in practice is commercial defense and construction litigation. Previously, Deirdre was a prosecuting attorney in Lynn, Massachusetts where she advocated for victims' rights and focused on child and family crimes. Deirdre is the President of the Board of Directors for Lynn Youth Street Outreach Advocacy, a non-profit that provides services to at-risk youth in the greater Lynn area and aims to prevent gang-based violence. Deirdre graduated from Northeastern University School of Law in 2014; she graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in 2011 where she majored in Philosophy and African-American Studies. While at Holy Cross, Deirdre lived in Kingston, Jamaica while working on behalf of children's rights groups and also worked as an advocate for child labor issues at a think tank in Washington, D.C. She remains a life-long fan of hip-hop, Santarpio's pizza, and going to the beach with her dogs - Seamus and Lola.
Deirdre is an attorney in Murtha Cullina's Boston office where her focus in practice is commercial defense and construction litigation. Previously, Deirdre was a prosecuting attorney in Lynn, Massachusetts where she advocated for victims' rights and focused on child and family crimes. Deirdre is the President of the Board of Directors for Lynn Youth Street Outreach Advocacy, a non-profit that provides services to at-risk youth in the greater Lynn area and aims to prevent gang-based violence. Deirdre graduated from Northeastern University School of Law in 2014; she graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in 2011 where she majored in Philosophy and African-American Studies. While at Holy Cross, Deirdre lived in Kingston, Jamaica while working on behalf of children's rights groups and also worked as an advocate for child labor issues at a think tank in Washington, D.C. She remains a life-long fan of hip-hop, Santarpio's pizza, and going to the beach with her dogs - Seamus and Lola.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did you / your family immigrate from?
Ireland |
Advisory Board.
Job. Staff Attorney at Make the Road NY Home. Brooklyn, NY What “Brave” means to you. To me, brave means pushing ahead and going for something even if you are anxious or afraid. |
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Biography.
Edith is an immigration attorney. She previously worked with immigrant youth as a staff attorney at The Door. When not working, she enjoys reading, visiting the various parks in Brooklyn with her dog, and trying to learn how to rock climb (still very bad at it).
Edith is an immigration attorney. She previously worked with immigrant youth as a staff attorney at The Door. When not working, she enjoys reading, visiting the various parks in Brooklyn with her dog, and trying to learn how to rock climb (still very bad at it).
Where did you / your family immigrate from?
Bolivia
Bolivia
Advisory Board.
Job. Director of People, AngelList Home. Harlem, NY What “Brave” means to you. Taking action even when you’re terrified. |
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Biography.
Elisa DiMauro is the Director of People at AngelList. She was previously the Senior Manager of Talent Development at Rent the Runway, where her work focused on enhancing the employee experience, including (1) making managers better leaders, (2) making meetings more productive, and (3) leveraging employee feedback to improve business outcomes. Essentially, she works to ensure "how we do our work" is as effective as possible to give employees more time for the things they love. Prior to Rent the Runway, Elisa spent 10 years in education, most recently as a high school principal in NYC, and still believes kids are way more fun to work with. She whole-heartedly believes in the power of young people to change our world and loves getting to support Youth Leadership Development at the Brave House. Elisa graduated from Hunter College with a Masters in Education in 2014 and a Communications/Business degree from Fordham University in 2012.
Elisa DiMauro is the Director of People at AngelList. She was previously the Senior Manager of Talent Development at Rent the Runway, where her work focused on enhancing the employee experience, including (1) making managers better leaders, (2) making meetings more productive, and (3) leveraging employee feedback to improve business outcomes. Essentially, she works to ensure "how we do our work" is as effective as possible to give employees more time for the things they love. Prior to Rent the Runway, Elisa spent 10 years in education, most recently as a high school principal in NYC, and still believes kids are way more fun to work with. She whole-heartedly believes in the power of young people to change our world and loves getting to support Youth Leadership Development at the Brave House. Elisa graduated from Hunter College with a Masters in Education in 2014 and a Communications/Business degree from Fordham University in 2012.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Italy and Ireland |
Advisory Board.
Job. Director of the Food & Agriculture Clinic and Associate Professor, Vermont Law and Graduate School. Home. Somerville, MA What “Brave” means to you. Staying true to your principles in spite of overwhelming discomfort; acting with hope in the face of oppression. |
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Biography.
Emma is the Director of the Food & Agriculture Clinic and Associate Professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School. Before that, she was a Clinical Instructor at Harvard Law School's Food Law and Policy Clinic, focusing on FLPC’s Sustainable and Equitable Food Production Initiative and the Clinic’s ongoing projects in the Mississippi Delta. Previously, Emma served as a Staff Attorney at California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation, where she litigated on behalf of low-wage workers in immigrant, rural communities. Her work was funded by Justice Catalyst, an organization that seeks to combat systemic injustices through innovative and collaborative legal approaches. Emma attended Harvard Law School, where she served as a clinical student attorney and participated in far too many journals (3) and student orgs (still counting...). Her most formative law school experience involved volunteering with the group No More Deaths in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona to provide humanitarian aid to migrants braving the treacherous terrain and climate. En su tiempo libre, Emma sigue mejorando su español.
Emma is the Director of the Food & Agriculture Clinic and Associate Professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School. Before that, she was a Clinical Instructor at Harvard Law School's Food Law and Policy Clinic, focusing on FLPC’s Sustainable and Equitable Food Production Initiative and the Clinic’s ongoing projects in the Mississippi Delta. Previously, Emma served as a Staff Attorney at California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation, where she litigated on behalf of low-wage workers in immigrant, rural communities. Her work was funded by Justice Catalyst, an organization that seeks to combat systemic injustices through innovative and collaborative legal approaches. Emma attended Harvard Law School, where she served as a clinical student attorney and participated in far too many journals (3) and student orgs (still counting...). Her most formative law school experience involved volunteering with the group No More Deaths in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona to provide humanitarian aid to migrants braving the treacherous terrain and climate. En su tiempo libre, Emma sigue mejorando su español.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
My dad immigrated from England, my mom's side hails from Ireland and Sweden. |
Advisory Board.
Job. Talent Development Consultant and Career & Wellness Coach, Hannah McGowan Coaching Home. Sarasota, FL What “Brave” means to you. Extending grace to ourselves and acting always with love. |
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Biography.
Hannah has partnered with people to transform their lives for over 10 years as a talent development professional, counselor, and nonprofit leader. Her role serves to build empowering opportunities for people to be their fullest, most powerful selves. She founded Hannah McGowan Coaching, partnering with organizations on their staff training, engagement, and retention goals, and with individuals on holistic career navigation, burnout recovery, and strengths-based skill development. Hannah is a licensed school counselor with a Master's of Education and Certificate of Advanced Studies from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a Bachelor's of Arts in International Studies and Latinx Studies from Boston College.
Hannah has partnered with people to transform their lives for over 10 years as a talent development professional, counselor, and nonprofit leader. Her role serves to build empowering opportunities for people to be their fullest, most powerful selves. She founded Hannah McGowan Coaching, partnering with organizations on their staff training, engagement, and retention goals, and with individuals on holistic career navigation, burnout recovery, and strengths-based skill development. Hannah is a licensed school counselor with a Master's of Education and Certificate of Advanced Studies from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a Bachelor's of Arts in International Studies and Latinx Studies from Boston College.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Poland, Norway, Ireland |
Advisory Board.
Job. Co-Founder & Bilingual Psychotherapist, Reaching Resilience Therapy, LCSW, PLLC. Home. Bronx, NY What “Brave” means to you. Staying positive even in difficult times, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, and relentlessly advocating for others and standing up for what you believe in. |
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Biography.
Hannah is a bilingual licensed social worker working in private practice. Hannah graduated with her MSW in May 2017 from Columbia University's School of Social Work where she concentrated in advanced generalist practice and programming, focusing on international social welfare and providing services to immigrants and refugees. Prior to moving to New York, Hannah graduated from James Madison University in her home state of Virginia with a double major in Social Work and Spanish and a minor in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. Hannah has, previously, worked with immigrant youth in immigration proceedings in New York and has worked with children of migrant farmworkers in Virginia. After graduating from Columbia, Hannah worked as a therapist for one year in Brooklyn where she served immigrant survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hannah is the part-time in-house therapist at the Brave House, providing individual and group therapy to members.
Hannah is a bilingual licensed social worker working in private practice. Hannah graduated with her MSW in May 2017 from Columbia University's School of Social Work where she concentrated in advanced generalist practice and programming, focusing on international social welfare and providing services to immigrants and refugees. Prior to moving to New York, Hannah graduated from James Madison University in her home state of Virginia with a double major in Social Work and Spanish and a minor in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. Hannah has, previously, worked with immigrant youth in immigration proceedings in New York and has worked with children of migrant farmworkers in Virginia. After graduating from Columbia, Hannah worked as a therapist for one year in Brooklyn where she served immigrant survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hannah is the part-time in-house therapist at the Brave House, providing individual and group therapy to members.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Germany, Scotland |
Advisory Board.
Job. Therapist, Sanctuary for Families Home. Brooklyn, NY What “Brave” means to you. Brave to me, means saying no. Saying no means that you are saying yes to yourself. |
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Biography.
Helen was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Today, she is a therapist at Sanctuary for Families, helping immigrant women heal from domestic violence and human trafficking.
Helen was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Today, she is a therapist at Sanctuary for Families, helping immigrant women heal from domestic violence and human trafficking.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Mexico |
Advisory Board.
Job. Public Art Manager & Artist. Home. Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, NY. What “Brave” means to you. To love openly and honestly. |
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Biography.
Sam works as a public art manager for a professional artist in NYC and is a learner, teacher, and artist herself. Before she worked as an art administrator, she taught high school art for 6 years in Boston. Teaching further cemented her love for artistic play and processes, and she adamantly taught her classes with the focus on womxn and artists of color. As fulfilling as it was to have the freedom to build this kind of curriculum, she quit in order to travel to 30 states with a public art project called, In Search of the Truth (The Truth Booth), where she helped collect diverse, nationwide truths ahead of the 2016 Presidential election. Now, she is responsible for ideation and coordination of large artworks and continues to travel across the country to realize projects both temporary and permanent. Her personal work focuses on her own empowerment, and she endeavors to create artistic platforms for voices that feel unheard.
Sam works as a public art manager for a professional artist in NYC and is a learner, teacher, and artist herself. Before she worked as an art administrator, she taught high school art for 6 years in Boston. Teaching further cemented her love for artistic play and processes, and she adamantly taught her classes with the focus on womxn and artists of color. As fulfilling as it was to have the freedom to build this kind of curriculum, she quit in order to travel to 30 states with a public art project called, In Search of the Truth (The Truth Booth), where she helped collect diverse, nationwide truths ahead of the 2016 Presidential election. Now, she is responsible for ideation and coordination of large artworks and continues to travel across the country to realize projects both temporary and permanent. Her personal work focuses on her own empowerment, and she endeavors to create artistic platforms for voices that feel unheard.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Sciacca, Sicily, & Edinburgh, Scotland |
Advisory Board.
Job. Immigrant Youth Advocate, The Door Home. Queens, NY What “Brave” means to you. Being afraid, and doing it anyway. Sacrificing things for what you believe in. |
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Biography.
Salina was born and raised in Queens, New York. During her undergraduate career, Salina volunteered at Inwood House, a mother-child transitional living program. While providing services to these young mothers, Salina returned to school to pursue her Master's Degree at Silberman School of Social Work. She graduated in 2017 and has been employed at The Door's Legal Services Center ever since as an Immigrant Youth Advocate. She found her passion for the field of immigration during an internship at Safe Passage Project. The timing of that internship was a crucial piece of Salina's desire to spend the rest of her life advocating for immigrant rights. At that exact time, she watched as the immigration system simultaneously prevented both an immediate family member as well as her client caseload from trying to adjust their status in this country. Salina identifies as a "Mom for Social Justice" because she is passionate about social justice work and wants to raise her little one in a society where ALL are welcome.
Salina was born and raised in Queens, New York. During her undergraduate career, Salina volunteered at Inwood House, a mother-child transitional living program. While providing services to these young mothers, Salina returned to school to pursue her Master's Degree at Silberman School of Social Work. She graduated in 2017 and has been employed at The Door's Legal Services Center ever since as an Immigrant Youth Advocate. She found her passion for the field of immigration during an internship at Safe Passage Project. The timing of that internship was a crucial piece of Salina's desire to spend the rest of her life advocating for immigrant rights. At that exact time, she watched as the immigration system simultaneously prevented both an immediate family member as well as her client caseload from trying to adjust their status in this country. Salina identifies as a "Mom for Social Justice" because she is passionate about social justice work and wants to raise her little one in a society where ALL are welcome.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Italy, Mexico |
Advisory Board.
Job. Strategy & Operations at Microsoft Home. Brooklyn, NY What “Brave” means to you. Speaking up for yourself and others (especially when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular); not letting trauma or obstacles define you; bringing kindness, humility, and tenacity to everything you do. |
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Biography.
Shiyulli currently works in Strategy & Operations at Microsoft. Previously she worked at Taproot Foundation, a nonprofit that builds the capacity of other social change organizations, where she worked with multinational companies to design and scale high-impact skill-based volunteering programs. Shiyulli also sits on the Junior Board of Hour Children, a New York-based nonprofit providing wraparound services for women re-entering society and reuniting with their families after incarceration. When she’s not at work, you can find her rock climbing with friends in the Shawgunks, tinkering in her kitchen, or buried in a great book.
Shiyulli currently works in Strategy & Operations at Microsoft. Previously she worked at Taproot Foundation, a nonprofit that builds the capacity of other social change organizations, where she worked with multinational companies to design and scale high-impact skill-based volunteering programs. Shiyulli also sits on the Junior Board of Hour Children, a New York-based nonprofit providing wraparound services for women re-entering society and reuniting with their families after incarceration. When she’s not at work, you can find her rock climbing with friends in the Shawgunks, tinkering in her kitchen, or buried in a great book.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Sri Lanka |
Advisory Board.
Job. Senior Associate, The Raben Group Home. Brooklyn, NY What “Brave” means to you. “Having courage does not mean that we are unafraid. Having courage and showing courage mean we face our fears. We are able to say, ‘I have fallen, but I will get up." Maya Angelou |
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Biography.
Stephanie is a Senior Associate for The Raben Group’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practice, bringing years of experience in project management, research, and innovative strategies and a passion for social change. Prior to joining Raben, Stephanie worked at the City of New York’s Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice where her efforts centered around bail reform and reentry initiatives, including a city-wide program aimed at providing an alternative to traditional money bail that decreased pre-trial detention citywide. Earlier in her career, Stephanie worked at a number of non-profit organizations throughout the New York City area. Stephanie is a first-generation college graduate daughter of immigrants which has shaped her passion for advancing social justice. In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys traveling, being outdoors, and spending quality time with her dog.
Stephanie is a Senior Associate for The Raben Group’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practice, bringing years of experience in project management, research, and innovative strategies and a passion for social change. Prior to joining Raben, Stephanie worked at the City of New York’s Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice where her efforts centered around bail reform and reentry initiatives, including a city-wide program aimed at providing an alternative to traditional money bail that decreased pre-trial detention citywide. Earlier in her career, Stephanie worked at a number of non-profit organizations throughout the New York City area. Stephanie is a first-generation college graduate daughter of immigrants which has shaped her passion for advancing social justice. In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys traveling, being outdoors, and spending quality time with her dog.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Mexico |
CamilaMember of the Youth Leadership Board
Home. Queens, NY Pronouns. she/her What "Brave" means to you. For me, being brave is to have the courage to do those things you're scared of but know they could represent a positive change in you. It's to be able to accept your mistakes and learn from them. |
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Biography.
Camila grew up in Colombia and has been in NYC for almost two years. She is a student at Baruch College where she is majoring in Economics. She's passionate about learning new things, self-care, and working out. In her free time, she loves to play tennis and listen to good music.
Camila grew up in Colombia and has been in NYC for almost two years. She is a student at Baruch College where she is majoring in Economics. She's passionate about learning new things, self-care, and working out. In her free time, she loves to play tennis and listen to good music.
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What song is energizing you today?
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Where did your family immigrate from?
Colombia |
