Justice Next Cohort Alumni

Adriene Lott is a passionate youth advocate and mentor, specializing in supporting Black youth within the school system. With a deep commitment to empowering young people, I want to help them discover their unique identities while guiding them to successfully navigate the complexities of the world around them. My role combines mentorship with a holistic approach to personal growth, fostering resilience, self-awareness, and confidence in the youth I serve.

Aliyah (Lee) Thompson - Lee's dream is to be an actor and advocate for BIPOC communities.

Azarel B Garcia- Hello, my name is Azarel B Garcia. I am a first-generation high school graduate, a second-year college student, and the first person in my family to pursue a degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS). Driven by a passion for helping people improve their quality of life, I aim to become an ultrasound technician and eventually earn a bachelor's degree in DMS. My goal is to work in a hospital setting, where I can assist in diagnosing health issues, ensuring patients can enjoy healthier lives and be present for future generations.

Growing up in a family that valued reducing waste, I developed an early awareness of environmental issues like food waste and carbon emissions. Living near a paper plate factory that consistently produces smoke further heightened my concern about the impact of pollution on personal and community health. Dream.org has also shown me that we, as teenagers, have people who care about our well-being, having witnessed not just climate change but also violence and unfairness in the criminal justice system. These experiences have shaped my outlook on health and well-being, motivating me to pursue a career that can directly contribute to others' longevity and happiness.

I joined a cohort to expand my understanding of global issues often overlooked or obscured by false positivity. Through this experience, I’ve gained a deeper awareness of the challenges facing society and the planet. I plan to use this knowledge, along with my healthcare career, to make a positive impact on both individual lives and broader societal well-being.

In addition to my professional ambitions, I am committed to supporting my family by contributing to household expenses and plan to show appreciation for the friends who have supported me by enjoying the fruits of my hard work together.

Bernice began her advocacy journey after her husband was incarcerated. As a member of Initiate Justice and the Inmate Family Council in California, Bernice is dedicated to bringing about positive change within the criminal justice system. Her passion for reform led her to receive a scholarship from dream.org, enabling her to enroll in a paralegal program. Through her studies, Bernice is committed to making a difference by advocating for prison reform and post-conviction resentencing. Her perseverance and determination serve as an inspiration to those around her as she continues to fight for justice and equality in her community.

Fatima Rodriguez Cardenas- holds an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts and Psychology and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Psychology. As a first-generation student, she is committed to advancing her education with the goal of supporting and empowering minority communities through mental health advocacy and education.

Honesty Martin's dream is to be a mental health advocate and to join the Air Force.

Jazmyne Bradford, a Sacramento native, is a passionate advocate for mental health and social justice, currently completing her undergraduate studies in psychology with a focus on behavioral and forensic psychology. Since high school, Jazmyne has combined her commitment to social justice with her artistic talents, using her skills in singing, songwriting, rapping, and poetry to support community healing and address critical issues through performances and events. She has played a key role in organizing impactful community events, such as "Wellness Night," which raised awareness about mental health and provided resources/information to the community on how to heal.

Keila Lee is currently at a non profit organization that focuses on Black Youth Mentorship and Advocacy in her community. Continuing her dream to run her own daycare business and has worked with homeschooling children for two years, has worked with youth since 2019. Would also love to create her own journal series that would have daily planners and goals. Has a strong passion for youth due to not having a lot of representation in her community and wants to be involved with the youth because they are the future in her words. Recently just graduated from the Justice Next Cohort in June 2024, and received Most Valued Partner in San Juan District through BYLP being on 4 school sites with Black Girl Support Network ( BGSN ) Fun Fact - Keila back in Elementary school, K-6th grade was never absent or late and received a bike for being the first person to achieve perfect attendance.

Laniea LaGarde is a dedicated mentor and advocate with the Black Youth Leadership Project, a nonprofit focused on empowering young Black leaders. Through this role, Laniea actively supports and guides Black youth, advocating for justice and equity within the community.

A passionate advocate for social justice and environmental sustainability, Laniea joined the Justice Dream Next cohort to gain vital skills and resources to address issues affecting marginalized communities, including the impacts of climate change. As a strong believer in holistic community support, Laniea is committed to using their platform to create positive change.

Looking to the future, Laniea aspires to further their education and become a therapist, with a particular focus on supporting Black adolescents. Laniea is determined to break down harmful superstitions within the community and create spaces for healing and mental wellness, contributing to the well-being and empowerment of minority youth.

Laura Larios is an immigrant mother of three, she and her family arrived in the United States when she was a toddler, and have called Sacramento, California, home ever since. Growing up, she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by immigrants and minorities, which inspired her to want to advocate for social justice.

However, due to her own immigration status, her initial plans to enter the field were derailed. The turning point for Laura came when she witnessed the struggles a loved one endured while incarcerated. This personal experience became a powerful motivator, setting her on the path she is on now. Her journey quickly began with Initiate Justice, where she graduated from their cohort in 2023. This experience deepened her understanding of the criminal justice system and intensified her commitment to creating a change.

Since then, she has dedicated her time to volunteering, participating in gatherings and press conferences at the state capital to support legislation aimed at making a better future for all. In 2024, she joined the Dream.Org Justice Next Cohort, where she gained invaluable tools and renewed motivation for her advocacy work. Dream.Org has empowered her to continue pushing for systemic change and to support individuals affected by the criminal justice and immigration systems. Laura actively uses her social media platform to inform and encourage others to support policies and laws she believes in. Her mission is to amplify the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves.

Her goal is to collaborate with organizations like Dream.Org to further her shared mission and to inspire her children, and work towards a fairer society for all.

Through these efforts, she hopes to contribute to meaningful change and to inspire others to join in the fight for justice and equality.

A compassionate and driven young woman on a mission to foster mental health awareA compassionate and driven young woman on a mission to foster mental health awareness and healing within her community. My passion for mental health runs deep. I believe that true well-being comes from both the mind and body, and I am determined to educate my community on the importance of holistic care. I love to share my knowledge and empower others to prioritize their mental and physical health to better our quality of life.ness and healing within her community. My passion for mental health runs deep. I believe that true well-being comes from both the mind and body, and I am determined to educate my community on the importance of holistic care. I love to share my knowledge and empower others to prioritize their mental and physical health to better our quality of life.

Lily Munoz- Student at Cosumnes River College. Pre-law, political science student with a passion for environmental policy, aiming to influence ecological legislation through advocacy. Dream.Org Justice Next Cohort graduate and Terra.Do fellow.

My name is Sanai Corum, a sophomore at Cosumnes River College in Sacramento, California, where I am  pursuing a degree in Pre-Health Medical studies. I was a proud member of the Dream.Org Justice Next  Cohort 2024, an experience that significantly shaped my commitment to social justice and equity in  healthcare.

Throughout my academic journey, I have gained hands-on experience in the medical field through  internships at a medical clinic, where I honed my skills and deepened my passion for patient care. My  work experience is extensive, having held various positions since the age of 14 years old. Most recently, I  worked as a Recreation Aide at the Sam and Bonnie Community Center, where I helped design and lead  summer and after-school programs for children.

I have also been actively involved in several community-focused initiatives. As a Sacramento County  Youth Commissioner, I advocated for youth perspectives in local government. I am a member of the  Umoja community at my college, which supports African American students in their academic and  personal growth. Additionally, I participated in the ARI Youth Executive Academy and served as a Youth  Digital Navigator, assisting elders with limited English proficiency in accessing digital resources.

Outside of my professional and academic pursuits, I enjoy spending time with family and friends,  painting, shopping, traveling, and exploring new activities.

My ultimate goal is to continuously improve myself and acquire the necessary tools to succeed as a  healthcare professional dedicated to making a positive impact not only in my community but in the  world.

Sherman is 23 years old who graduated with a BA at Delaware State University and whose passion is to coach mental health advocates.

Titilope Olotu is a first-generation Nigerian immigrant specializing in Biology and Public Health at University of California, Los Angeles on a full ride scholarship. Titilope received multiple distinctions including being a 2023 Coca-Cola Scholar, Black in Microsoft Scholar, Stantec Equity and Diversity Scholar, Taco Bell Live Más Scholar and more. Titilope co-founded Period Padi, an initiative catering to menstrual equity for young women around the world, and has received recognition from honorable individuals such as Kamala Harris, and assembly member McCarty. Titilope hopes to mobilize her privilege and network in ensuring to provide resources to the underprivileged, especially immigrant children all over the world.

Trey Burrell was born and raised in Sacramento and is a Sacramento New Tech graduate who currently works at Sky Zone and is a current student at CRC Community College.

My name is Veronica Haydon and I am a third year Community College Student. I am a first-generation college student aspiring to become a Dermatologist. My passion is helping people become the best version of themselves. I am currently in the process of earning my associate Biology and plan on transferring within the next year. I enjoy spending time with friends and family as well as going for walks.

Alondra Moguel is a dedicated college student at South Mountain Community College, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health and Sciences. Alongside her academic studies, she works as a dental assistant, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the healthcare field. Passionate about both behavioral health and service-oriented professions, she strives to merge these interests in her future career.

Alondra Moguel is also a proud alumna of the Dream.Org Cohort, where she honed skills in leadership, community engagement, and personal development. Committed to helping others achieve their potential, she continues to be an advocate for empowerment and growth, both professionally and personally.

Her diverse experience and ongoing education in the behavioral sciences and healthcare underscore her dedication to improving the well-being of others, and she looks forward to making a meaningful impact in her future career.

Amari Christopher Rose is a dedicated Visual Arts and Theatre major at Mesa Community College, where he currently maintains an impressive 4.0 GPA. In addition to his academic success, Amari serves as the president of the Basketball Club at MCC, demonstrating leadership both on and off the court. He is also actively pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University, where he is involved in the M.E.N. program, a platform focused on leadership and empowerment. Through his efforts, Amari is committed to driving positive change and making a lasting impact in the Mesa community.

Angelee Vigil grew up in Denver, Colorado, where a deep sense of community shaped their commitment to advocating for equity and change. Currently a junior at Arizona State University, Angelee is pursuing a degree in Global Politics, blending academic rigor with a passion for understanding and addressing the world’s most pressing issues.

Driven by a strong dedication to social justice, Angelee is deeply involved in initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity and systemic reform. Their advocacy spans critical issues such as gun control and immigration, reflecting a commitment to creating a safer and more equitable society. In addition, Angelee is currently working with Agua es Vida, an organization dedicated to informing the Chicano community about the quality and safety of their drinking water.

Through their studies and activism, Angelee focuses on the intersections of law, policy, and human rights, preparing for a future as a compassionate and effective advocate.

Anirudh Manjesh, an international student from Bangalore, India, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Arizona State University's Barrett, The Honors College. His passion for leveraging technology for social good has driven him to participate in 23 hackathons, developing numerous projects focused on accessibility and educational access. As the previous President of the Barrett Residential Council and Director of Public Relations at the Indian Students' Association, Anirudh demonstrates strong leadership abilities while maintaining his commitment to community service through roles like Refugee tutor at RISE AZ.

His academic excellence has earned him several prestigious recognitions, including the EPICS Rising Star Award and The Barrett Gold Standard Award for Community Involvement. Looking ahead, Anirudh aims to apply his expertise in machine learning and AI at Dream.org, where he hopes to create tools that drive meaningful social change, combining his technical skills with his dedication to making a positive impact on society.

Carlyssa D. Hordge is an artist and activist who is continuously being raised by the Phoenix Sun. With a strong focus on teaching, she has dedicated much of her time to supporting system-impacted individuals through the arts. Driven by her commitment to empowering marginalized communities, Carlyssa is passionate about sharing resources and tools with both youth and elders. Her artistic mission centers on fostering healthy coping skills and using art as a powerful medium for individuals to express their experiences and challenges within the broader community.

Clarissa Ochoa is proud to be a first-generation college graduate. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Justice Studies from Arizona State University in 2024. Clarissa’s journey to this milestone has been shaped by her deep-rooted passion for advocacy. Growing up in South Phoenix as the daughter of immigrant parents, Clarissa witnessed firsthand the systemic inequities and challenges her community faced. These experiences instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility to be a voice for change. From an early age, Clarissa knew she wanted to dedicate her life to addressing these injustices and creating opportunities for marginalized communities like hers. Clarissa’s academic path and lived experiences have fueled her commitment to making a change within her community.

DeMornay Kirk is a passionate advocate for justice, equity, and social change. DeMornay graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies and a certificate in Socio-Legal Studies, which deepened her commitment to supporting marginalized communities. Throughout her academic journey, she has been inspired to fight for the rights and voices of those who are often unheard. She's especially focused on uplifting the Black community, the LGBTQIA+ community, Women, People with disabilities, those affected by mental illness, and all those whose identities intersect. DeMornay plans to pursue a Juris Doctor with a concentration in either Legislative Law or Public Interest Law. DeMornay's ultimate mission is to be a voice for those who need it most, advocating for justice and equity in every arena. DeMornay aims to use her education and future legal career to make meaningful changes in the world.

James K.Thorpe II is a dedicated sophomore at Arizona State University, majoring in Justice Studies. Born and raised in Philadelphia, James carries the vibrant spirit of his hometown with him. His journey has taken him from the East Coast, spending his many years in Virginia, to his current residence in Arizona, where he is deeply engaged in his studies and community.

Passionate about social justice and system reform, James is committed to addressing societal inequities and creating pathways for meaningful change. His academic pursuits reflect his desire to understand and dismantle systemic barriers while advocating for marginalized communities.

James aims to combine his lived experiences with academic knowledge to champion justice and equality. His drive for reform is matched by his belief in the power of collective action to build a fairer and more equitable society.

Kevanea Zanoah Brown is a dedicated student at Washington High School with a deep commitment to serving others. She is a passionate advocate for her community, particularly when it comes to supporting the homeless. Kevanea regularly volunteers her time to provide meals, essential supplies, and other forms of assistance to those in need. Her caring nature drives her to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Kevanea is determined to pursue a career as an ultrasound technician and is currently working toward earning her associate’s degree to achieve that goal. She strives to continue helping others throughout her life.

Kevin Crispin is a first generation student. He is currently a board member and peer mentor for Peer Solutions, a non-profit organization that focuses on addressing the root causes of violence and harm before they begin. Kevin has been with Peer Solutions since he was in the 4th grade, and they've really helped him grow as a person and realize what he wants to pursue in his career. Kevin is currently pursuing his Associate’s Degree in Behavioral Sciences at South Mountain Community College. He is the student representative for the Student Affairs Committee, and attends monthly meetings with the faculty to go over how they can improve enrollments, the importance of it, and how people can find out more of this public information. With Peer Solutions, Kevin is focusing on creating a club at South Mountain Community College focused on advocacy.

Kimberly is a compassionate and results-driven individual with three years of experience in customer service, and is currently pursuing a social work certification at Mesa Community College. She is skilled in building strong client relationships, meeting donation goals, and exceeding sales targets through upselling and strategic engagement. Kimberly is passionate about using interpersonal skills and empathy to support and empower individuals in need. She is ready to leverage her customer service experience and social work training to make a positive impact in the field of advocacy and social services.

Lisett Casas is a Mexican-American, first-generation college student from Las Vegas, Nevada. She is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice with a focus on Forensics, aiming to become a crime scene investigator.

Growing up in diverse communities has inspired Lisett to advocate for positive change in the criminal justice system. She is aware of how individuals are often categorized due to discrimination, drug abuse, racism, and other issues, resulting in a failed system and family separations. This has fueled her passion for reform, focusing on equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights, regardless of background or identity.

Lisett is committed to gaining hands-on experience through internships and volunteering. She believes advocacy is essential to ensuring incarcerated individuals receive the justice they deserve. Ultimately, Lisett seeks to use her education and dedication to drive meaningful change within the criminal justice system.

Michelle Tapia Loeza was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. As the first in her family to graduate high school and pursue higher education, she is currently in her first year at South Mountain Community College, majoring in Forensic Science and working towards her Associate’s Degree. Michelle is passionate about playing a key role in shaping a brighter future for both current and future generations in her hometown. She aspires to become a forensic medical examiner, where she can apply her skills and knowledge to help solve cases, and contribute to the pursuit of justice. Michelle is passionate about investing, as well as spending time with her family. Her goal is to not only contribute to the advancement of forensic science but also to mentor and inspire the next generation of forensic professionals, passing on her knowledge and experiences to those who share her passion for this field. Ultimately, Michelle seeks to be at the forefront of forensic advancements, ensuring that her work helps to elevate the field and improve the lives of individuals and communities by bringing clarity and justice to complex situations.

Paula Ortega (Phoenix, AZ/Agua Prieta, SON) is a proud Mexicana and Salvadoreña. She was raised in Agua Prieta, Son. Paula loves to practice multiple art forms. She is a co-founder & staff member at RE:Frame Youth Art Center. She believes in the radical potential of young people leading. She is working on a world where young people can sit on the table of decision making alongside adults to make a better tomorrow.

Samuel Ndinjiakat Jr is an aspiring writer and educator based in Tempe, Arizona with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Arizona State University. They have a passion for Climate Justice and through the Justice Next Cohort have gained critical introductory experience into what the terrain of climate advocacy looks like and the work it’ll take to get us where we need to do to ensure that ALL our communities are adapting to adverse conditions. Though the road may be long they are looking forward to contributing to the fight for sustainable communities for years to come.

Siyah Tyler is a first-generation third-year student at Arizona State University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Medical Studies through the College of Health Solutions and Barrett Honors College. Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, she is deeply connected to her community and driven by a commitment to embody compassion, integrity, and service in all that she does.

She is passionate about helping others, with a particular focus on making a difference for justice-impacted youth in Arizona. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, which keeps her grounded and inspired.

Siyah’s goal is to become an obstetrician-gynecologist, serving as a pillar in her community and providing equitable healthcare for underserved populations. Through her work, she aims to be a role model and an example of perseverance and service, uplifting others to follow their own aspirations.

Ungildil True Bells Cariño Kyota, who also goes by Nini Kyota, is a sophomore at Arizona State University pursuing her Bachelor’s of Science in Political Science. A proud Palauan-Filipino raised on the island of Guam, she is deeply committed to advocacy, focusing on environmental justice, criminal justice reform, and nurturing the next generation of her community. Dedicated to a career in advocacy and law, Nini strives to ensure young people, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, have access to meaningful opportunities and resources. Guided by her cultural roots, she is passionate about building a more sustainable and just future.