The NYAB is a diverse group of 19 individuals who weigh in on YI’s work and our strategies for engaging with young adults. Once a quarter, leaders meet with YI staff to provide feedback on our campaigns, identify areas for organizational growth, and discuss any new initiatives that YI should consider. Board members will share how our federal work resonates in their states and help us identify how our federal priorities align with work in their communities.

Our 2025 NYAB has now launched! We’re excited to start this year with a dynamic group of individuals from across the country!

Check out the 2025 cohort below:

Adeola Akinyemi (MA)

Adeola Akinyemi is a mental health clinician who provides individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Adeola is a proud first-generation Nigerian-American college graduate. She holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Boston University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with minors in History and Pre-Professional Health from SUNY Brockport. Adeola has a strong interest in research, with experience studying the needs of first-generation college students, metacognition, and mental health stigma in African and African American communities. She has served on various advisory boards and committees, including Class Action’s First Gen Summit, America Saves National Youth Advisory Council, and Boston University’s School of Social Work curriculum committee. Adeola is passionate about increasing access to affordable mental health care and uses her research and direct service experience to advocate for policy changes and improved mental health care access. In her free time, she enjoys watching live theater, cooking, and reading.

Alexiea Feaster (TX)

Alexiea Feaster, a proud Chicago native, is a graduate of Jackson State University. With a strong foundation in education, she has held impactful roles in college and scholarship advising, guiding students toward achieving their academic and career goals. Transitioning into health care, Alexiea now channels her passion for equity into improving access to quality care for underserved populations, fostering healthier and more inclusive communities.

Andrea Morales (CA)

Driven by a deep commitment to social justice, Andrea Morales, a proud member of the P’urepecha Indigenous community from Michoacán and a graduate of UC Irvine, has dedicated her career to advocating for marginalized communities, with a particular passion for Indigenous and Latinx LGBTQ+ advocacy. As a California Capital Fellows finalist, she brings a unique blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience to her work. Andrea is deeply committed to restoring Indigenous leadership practices and preserving cultural heritage, weaving together a narrative of education, advocacy, and cultural resurgence. A digital storyteller, she uses her platform to share stories from her community, uplift others, and create meaningful connections that foster solidarity and understanding. Her efforts have spanned grassroots organizing, policy advocacy, and community empowerment, always focused on amplifying voices that are often overlooked. Whether designing programs to support the Latinx LGBTQ+ community or creating initiatives to raise awareness and build networks for Indigenous groups, Andrea has sought to create spaces where these communities can thrive. Her work has involved organizing community events and workshops, while also engaging with policymakers to address systemic challenges and ensure the voices of marginalized communities are prioritized in decision-making processes. At the core of her work is a belief in intersectionality and a commitment to fostering inclusive, supportive environments where everyone has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Through her advocacy and storytelling, Andrea leaves an enduring impact on both Indigenous communities and the broader societal landscape, empowering diverse voices and fostering cross-cultural solidarity.

Angel Gonzalez (CO)

Angel Gonzalez is a public health advocate, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and policy strategist committed to expanding health care access and improving clinical outcomes, particularly for marginalized communities. As a first-generation Mexican American who grew up in poverty, Angel witnessed firsthand the effects of systemic inequities in health care, housing, and economic stability. Their lived experience—including navigating homelessness and supporting disabled parents who relied on government programs—fuels their passion for advocacy and reform. With a background in international relations, economics, and data analysis, Angel takes a multidisciplinary approach to addressing public health challenges. Their EMT training provides a frontline perspective on crisis intervention and patient care, reinforcing the connection between policy and real-world health care needs. As a board member for Young Invincibles, they champion youth engagement in policymaking and advocate for equitable health care solutions that create meaningful, lasting change.

 

Becky Contreras (TX)

Becky, a third-generation American, is proud to call San Antonio, Texas, home. She holds an A.A. in Theatre from San Antonio College and a B.A. in Communication with an emphasis in Journalism and a minor in Political Science from Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMUSA). With several years of experience in community outreach and nonprofit services, she has dedicated her career to advocating for equitable access to health care and community resources. Becky currently works at CentroMed with their EnrollSA team, serving in the dual roles of Federal Navigator and Marketing Manager. In this capacity, she educates and empowers individuals to navigate the health insurance marketplace and secure comprehensive coverage. As a new member of Young Invincibles’ National Youth Advisory Board, Becky is eager to amplify her impact by advocating for young people’s needs on a national scale. Passionate about health equity and youth empowerment, she aims to create sustainable solutions that bridge gaps in access to vital public services. In her free time, Becky enjoys exploring local art shows, playing video games, creating content for social media campaigns, and contributing to initiatives that inspire meaningful change in her community.

Brian Garrett Jr. (NY)

Brian Garrett Jr. is a forward-thinking and driven individual aspiring to build a legal career dedicated to public interest advocacy. A graduate of Medgar Evers College CUNY, Brian is committed to serving vulnerable populations nationwide. He seeks to leverage legal expertise to advance social justice, equity, and systemic reform. Currently focused on entering law school, Brian aims to build a strong legal foundation to address issues affecting students, young people, and underserved communities. Passionate about addressing the needs of marginalized populations, he strives to create a platform where individuals can thrive. Through legal acumen, strategic advocacy, and unwavering dedication, Brian aims to make a lasting impact in public interest law for those in need.

Camille Serrano (CA)

Camille (she/they) is a woman of color with a background in advocacy nonprofits and political campaigns. During the 2022 election, Camille assisted in social media for Beto O’Rourke and digital fundraising for Lina Hidalgo. Before working as a communications operative, Camille attended Fullerton College and transferred on a full-ride scholarship to the University of California, Los Angeles. Currently, Camille is pursuing a Master’s in Communication at Johns Hopkins University. As a proud Korean Pilipina, Camille is a firm believer in utilizing the digital space to mobilize and empower communities on the path to social change.

Christopher Hendrix (CA)

Christopher Hendrix is a passionate advocate for youth and social justice, combining expertise in political science, psychology, and public administration to drive meaningful change. A 2023 graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills, he is a proven leader in student advocacy, policy development, and community engagement. His experience spans diverse sectors, including government (Los Angeles City Youth Development Department), nonprofits (Young Invincibles), and academia (UCLA Anderson Forecast Fellow), where he has conducted impactful research and spearheaded initiatives addressing youth homelessness and mental health equity. Christopher is a skilled policy analyst, advocate, and strategist, regularly advising organizations and government entities. His international travel and multicultural experiences further inform his commitment to fostering equity and well-being, particularly within marginalized communities. Currently a Mentor Consultant, Christopher leverages his lived experiences to guide foster youth toward positive development. He seeks to build upon this foundation through an MSW, enhancing his capacity for community building, holistic wellness promotion, and policy development. Christopher is looking forward to supporting the NYAB by amplifying youth initiatives, guiding strategic thinking, and providing alternative perspectives to build youth empowerment. A lifelong learner, he is currently enrolled in a Grant Administration course series aimed at supporting organizations in meeting fundraising goals and managing resources effectively.

Eliza Patlan (IL/NY)

Eliza Patlan is a dedicated student and aspiring law professional, currently a junior at New York University, where she is double majoring in Environmental Studies and Politics. A first-generation Mexican-American from Waukegan, Illinois, Eliza has always had a deep passion for helping others through volunteering or engaging in conversations about pressing societal issues. Her interest in advocacy and law was sparked while studying abroad in London, where she explored the intersection of ethics, politics, and sustainability on a global scale. Since then, she has delved into policy research, legal operations, and community advocacy, particularly in environmental law, migrant rights, poverty, and homelessness. While Eliza’s primary goal is to pursue a career in environmental law, she remains committed to exploring a range of social justice issues, driven by her desire to contribute to meaningful change. Through coursework and simulations, she has examined renewable energy policy, climate agreements, and environmental regulation, further strengthening her understanding of governance and sustainability challenges. Eliza’s background in legal operations—ranging from invoicing and case intake to court document processing—has provided her with a deeper understanding of the legal system, while her studies and networking efforts have expanded her perspective on both environmental and social justice issues. Through NYAB, Eliza hopes to contribute her skills and passion to meaningful advocacy, advancing policies that promote equitable and sustainable communities and drive lasting social and environmental change.

Eugenia A. Williams (“Genie”) (PA)

Eugenia A. Williams, known as “Genie,” has Louisiana roots but currently resides in Pennsylvania, where she is pursuing a career at the intersection of politics, media, and civic engagement. By working on the 2024 Biden-Harris/Harris-Walz campaign, she aims to use her communications and media literacy skills to drive change in the Northeast region. Eugenia previously served as a digital staffer for the Warnock for Georgia campaign, where she helped shape messaging and voter outreach efforts. Her passion for politics began in high school when she co-wrote and testified for Louisiana’s SB43 in June 2019, advocating for student involvement in school emergency planning. As Vice President of the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council, she played a pivotal role in elevating youth voices in policymaking. Eugenia holds a B.A. in Political Science from Spelman College, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with double minors in Spanish and Photography. Beyond electoral politics, Eugenia is dedicated to leveraging storytelling and digital strategy to amplify underrepresented voices. She aspires to one day establish her own consulting firm, using her expertise to make an impact wherever change is needed.

Hadi Fareed (TX)

Hadi Fareed holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Texas at Austin and is set to begin his studies at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law in August. As a dedicated first responder and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), he has firsthand experience addressing urgent healthcare needs, which fuels his passion for improving access to equitable and quality care. He aspires to pursue a JD/MD, combining his expertise in law and medicine to shape impactful health policies at the national level. His academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to underserved communities, exemplified by his research on asthma interventions for Latinx adolescents. Through this work, he has developed culturally sensitive strategies to enhance outcomes for populations disproportionately affected by healthcare disparities.

In addition to his academic and clinical endeavors, Hadi founded and operated his own laundromat business during his undergraduate years, taking on the responsibility of sustaining his family’s income while excelling in his studies. This entrepreneurial experience instilled resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of community-centered work. In his free time, Hadi enjoys giving back to the community as a soccer coach at the YMCA, where he mentors and inspires young athletes. With a unique blend of clinical, academic, and entrepreneurial experiences, he is committed to bridging gaps in healthcare access and creating lasting change through thoughtful policy and action.

Jeremiah “Jeremi” Medina (CO)

With a deep commitment to public service, Jeremiah, He/Him/El is dedicated to uplifting communities and driving positive change across Colorado and beyond. Passionate about making a lasting impact, he earned a degree in Society, Health & Policy from Metropolitan State University of Denver. During his time in college, he played a key role as one of the inaugural Student Body Presidents under the university’s innovative shared governance model. As a first-generation college graduate, he continued his mission of service by earning a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Colorado at Denver. Throughout his career, he has embraced leadership positions that have allowed him to effect change, including serving as Chief of Staff at the Colorado State Capitol and as a Vice Chair of Community Engagement, where he has helped mobilize young voters and activists. Medina is also a former board member of the Youth Advisory Board for the Rocky Mountain Region.

Outside of his professional life, he is passionate about staying active and giving back to his community. Whether he’s swimming laps, teaching lifeguard and swim lessons, or hiking the breathtaking trails of the Rocky Mountains, he remains connected to the causes he cares about. Eager to serve on a national level, he is focused on breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. “It is an incredible honor to be in spaces I once only imagined, turning those dreams into opportunities to inspire and make a difference.”

Katherine Longoria (TX)

Katherine Longoria is a dedicated policy and governmental affairs professional with experience in legislative strategy, public health policy, and advocacy. She currently serves as the Director of Policy and Governmental Affairs for a behavioral health organization, where she actively engages with local, state, and federal leaders to shape mental health policy and advocate for vulnerable populations. Katherine has also held key legislative roles, including chief of staff, communications, and legislative director at the Texas House of Representatives, where she played a critical role in policy development and public engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government and another in Journalism & Mass Communications from New Mexico State University. Katherine is pursuing a Master of Public Health in Health Care Management at UTHealth Houston Sciences Center and is expected to graduate in Spring 2025.

Kyla Hurns (DC)

Kyla Hurns is a Detroit native and currently serves as a Higher Education Policy Analyst at Ed Trust. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Management, Leadership, and Policy and a minor in Education Policy from The Ohio State University. While at Ohio State, Kyla held numerous leadership roles in student government, including Chief of Staff and Chair of the Undergraduate Black Caucus, where she spearheaded initiatives to improve the lives and experiences of Black students on campus while overseeing budgets and coordinating large-scale programs. Kyla also worked with Student Votes during the 2024 Presidential Election, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to making voting more accessible for college students, where she worked to increase voter education and engagement on campus. With a robust background in research and advocacy, she has contributed to policy initiatives such as analyzing racial disproportionality in school discipline and piloting culturally responsive early childhood programs. Kyla is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Outside of her professional endeavors, she is passionate about empowering underrepresented communities and advancing equitable education policies. For fun, she enjoys reading, trying new recipes, exploring DC, and supporting the Detroit Lions and Ohio State Buckeyes.

Sean Schrader (FL)

Sean Schrader is a recent graduate of the University of South Florida, where he earned his MBA and previously completed his bachelor’s degree in business management. Throughout his life, Sean has engaged in many unique experiences, including serving as the District Office Manager for former U.S. Congressman Charlie Crist, President of the National Association of Graduate and Professional Students, and Global Goals Ambassador for the United Nations Association of the United States. Sean believes in the power of individual action, beginning at the local level, to create meaningful change and has advocated for this perspective in settings such as the United Nations, World Bank, and Conference of the Parties. Sean aspires to a career in public service and aims to achieve this goal by serving as a JAG officer in the Air Force.

Tyra Powell (NY)

Tyra Powell is a 27-year-old graduate of SUNY Buffalo State University, where she earned a degree in Political Science and Public Administration. A lifelong resident of Queens, New York, Tyra began her involvement in civic engagement at the age of 16, assisting city council members with their campaigns. She currently serves as the Director of Civic Engagement Programs for South Queens Women’s March and is a Queens General Assembly alumni (’24). Tyra has always been deeply involved in advocating for civics within her community.

William Navarrete Moreno (CO)

William Navarrete Moreno is a Public Health student at the University of Colorado Denver, an advocate for health equity, a visionary leader, and the founder of TheCHANGEproject, a nonprofit dedicated to dismantling systemic health disparities through grassroots organizing and community power. As a 2024-2026 Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholar and FACETS scholar at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, William is at the forefront of a movement to reimagine health care justice—one that centers the voices of those historically silenced. His work is rooted in lived experience, having witnessed firsthand how systemic barriers deny care to immigrant families like his own. William is building a future where communities lead their own liberation, where equity is not a privilege but a right. His leadership is driven by an unshakable belief that transformative change is possible, and that young leaders, when given the platform and power, will be the architects of a more just world.

Yousef Fareed (DC)

Yousef Fareed is a young professional in Washington, DC, with an A.S. in Computer Science. He has a passion for linguistics, philosophy, history, and politics. Yousef is eager to expand his knowledge of policies affecting diverse communities and to contribute using the expertise he has gained in the corporate world. In his free time, he enjoys video games, various forms of art, hiking and outdoor activities, and exploring the intricacies of sci-fi biology.

Zerui Wu (DC)

Zerui Wu is committed to addressing inequality and poverty through rigorous research and evidence-based solutions. With a strong interest in economic development and social policy, he aims to pursue a career in academia to explore the structural drivers of inequality and identify effective interventions. By leveraging quantitative methods and interdisciplinary approaches, Zerui seeks to contribute to policies that promote economic mobility and social equity.