I am an undergraduate student studying nonprofit leadership and management at Arizona State University. Professionally and personally dedicated to finding community-based solutions to societal problems through work in the nonprofit sector. I have been a member of Fostering Advocates of Arizona since 2017 and Arizona Youth Empowerment Council since 2019. I attended the Jim Casey Youth Initiative in Washington, DC summer of 2019. Through the participation in FAAZ and AYEC, I have helped implement policy and change for foster youth across Arizona. Personal nonprofit volunteer experience in numerous programs, such as Tempe Saint Luke’s, Grootbos, and Kranti. I am a determined and leader-oriented individual who strives to include culture, communication, and leadership in the workplace. I enjoy traveling, spending time with loved ones, photography, drawing, and cooking in my free time.
Why I joined the Leadership Board:
I joined the Young Adult Leadership Board in hopes of bringing more awareness to foster youth. I also wanted to help youth understand their rights, resources, opportunities, and voice they can use while in care. Since being on the board I have learned more about myself, how far I can challenge myself, and that I have a voice to create positive change.
My experience in out-of-home care:
I entered the foster care system at age 16 and I aged out at 21. The barriers I faced included addressing past trauma, switching schools, lost relationships with family, and navigating the foster care system. The above affected me very much but with therapy, some stability later on, and creating a new support system I was able to focus on healing. I received behavioral health services, subsidy, a mentor, CASA, case manager, and therapy which all contributed to the success and ability to be in college.
The unique perspective I bring to the board:
I am a foster alumni with experience in kinship, residential, and foster home placements. The passion I have to make foster care an inclusive environment adds perspective to the board. I am easy going but hardworking and determined to make a positive impact within Arizona for all youth.
