About our Cohort
Welcome to the driving force behind our Youth Advisory Cohort (YAC) – a vibrant collective of 12 exceptional individuals aged 17-24, spanning high school, undergraduate, and post-college youth, all residing in Iowa. Proud advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights, our cohort members represent diverse backgrounds, identifying as LGBTQIA+, youth of color, and/or champion rural youth.
In the face of adversity, these resilient activists have organized impactful walkouts on school campuses, fearlessly challenging the status quo and advocating for human rights. From navigating high school hallways to university campuses, our council members share a commitment to positive change and inclusivity.
What sets our Youth Advisory Cohort apart is their hands-on approach to providing comprehensive sex education to youth across Iowa. Going above and beyond, these exceptional youth bring lived experiences to the forefront, engaging in peer-to-peer interactions that create a more personal and impactful learning experience.
Beyond their advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights, these dedicated activists recognize the transformative power of education in breaking down barriers, dispelling stereotypes, and fostering a more inclusive society. Many of them are actively involved in legislation, closely following bills that impact the rights of Iowa’s youth.
Join us in celebrating a cohort that not only confronts challenges head-on but also strives to create a more informed and empowered generation. By amplifying diverse voices, advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, championing comprehensive sex education, and actively engaging in legislative processes, our Youth Advisory Cohort stands as a beacon of hope for a future where inclusivity and knowledge reign supreme. Together, they embody the strength of unity, paving the way for a more compassionate and educated society.
Meet some of our Cohort Members:
Juliana
Attending the University of Northern Iowa, Juliana is actively engaged in various community service and advocacy initiatives. As a member of the executive team of Society of Human Resource Management, Juliana serves as Treasurer, contributing to the organization's financial management and strategic planning.
Furthermore, Juliana plays a vital role as the Volunteer Coordinator and tax preparer for the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. Beyond tax preparation, she provides interpretation services for families with limited English proficiency in the Burmese, Karenni, and Karen communities. Additionally, Juliana served as a Youth Navigator at the Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy Center (EMBARC) from 2017 to 2019, demonstrating her commitment to supporting underserved populations. Born and raised in a refugee camp, Juliana advocates for comprehensive sex education within her community, recognizing its importance for the safety and well-being of young people. Fluent in Karenni, Juliana provides essential translation services within the Burmese-Karenni community, reflecting her dedication to bridging linguistic and cultural gaps.
Chesa
Enrolled at Wartburg College, Chesa immerses herself in a diverse academic curriculum encompassing Political Science, International Relations, Arts, and Peace and Justice. Beyond the classroom, she has a profound commitment to humanitarian causes, evident from her early volunteer work at the Astronomy Club of Kosovo at the age of 12. This dedication matured as she joined NGOs advocating for human rights and later became a volunteer at the United Nations Mission of Kosovo by age 14.
Venturing to Bosnia and Herzegovina at 18 for studies, Chesa underwent a transformative personal journey, embracing agnosticism and broadening her global perspective. Even amidst this shift, she maintained her involvement in humanitarian endeavors, remotely supporting the UN mission in Kosovo and aiding refugees in Mostar's "Salakovac" camp. At 19, Chesa assumed leadership as the Executive Director of the "United Youth Task Force" under the UN Mission in Kosovo, fostering trust and resolving conflicts among Kosovo's communities. Currently serving as the Student Manager of the Writing, Speaking, Reading, and Listening Lab, along with holding the role of President of the International Club.
Alexandra
Currently pursuing a Master's degree at Washington University in St. Louis, Alexandra completed undergraduate studies at the University of Iowa. She is deeply committed to social justice and advocacy, actively engaging in campus organizations. At WashU, she contributes to the Alliance for Sexual and Reproductive Justice, focusing on awareness and positive change. As a Peer Educator at the University of Iowa's Women's Resource and Action Center, Alexandra facilitated workshops and trainings on important topics like bystander intervention and healthy relationships. She also served as Social Media Director for NAMI on Campus at Iowa, supporting mental health awareness. Alexandra's Catholic school upbringing and family emphasis on accurate sex education have inspired her to advocate for education and dialogue around these issues.
Rubie
At 19 years old, currently enrolled at the University of Northern Iowa, Rubie is deeply engaged both academically and in extracurricular pursuits. On campus, she channels her energy into weightlifting, finding it not only a means to pursue her fitness goals but also a path to self-discovery and empowerment.
Beyond the gym, Rubie finds solace and expression through music and singing, connecting with her emotions in a deeply personal way. Additionally, she is passionate about advocating for women's rights and educating others on the importance of understanding disparities among all identities. Rubie extends this advocacy to men's rights, aiming to dismantle social constructs of toxic masculinity and encourage healthy emotional expression for all genders, fostering mental well-being and self-love.