Fellowship Celebrates Lived Experience in Child Welfare

At Foster America, we believe those closest to the challenges of the child welfare system hold the most valuable insights – and to truly transform the way our nation serves families, theirs are the perspectives that must guide the work.

It is in that spirit we welcome the newest cohort of the National Leadership Circle, a unique fellowship for changemakers whose firsthand experience in the child welfare system inspires and informs their efforts to drive change. Each fellow holds a professional role in an organization that impacts children, youth, and families. 

Throughout the fellowship, participants will have the chance to connect, exchange ideas, and develop strategies to promote healing and belonging for those impacted by social injustice in child welfare.

By inviting lived experts to share their experiences, we aim to create a supportive community where their voices are not just heard but celebrated.

Join us in applauding these remarkable leaders and their commitment to transforming the child welfare system – until every family thrives.

Cohort Members:

• Michael Peno, Rhode Island – Department of Children, Youth, and Families

• Leah Murray, Oregon – Oregon Department of Human Services

• Tia Humphrey, Kentucky – Kentucky Youth Advocates

• Cheyanne Gallagher, New York – Office of Children and Family Services

• Destiny Tooley, North Carolina – Xavier House Unlimited

• Alex Percero, California – California Youth Connection

• Niya Brooks, Arizona – Arizona State University Bridging Success Program

• Dylan Evans, North Carolina – Youth Villages

• Mercedes Jackson, California – National Foster Youth Institute

• Farihna Rahman, California – SPEAKOUT, Youth Advisory, Thriving Families

• Audavion Cook, Mississippi – Mississippi Youth Voice

• Josh Elizando, California – LA County Youth Commission

• Sophie Fashana, Oregon – Next 100

• Fatima Latifi, California – Youth Empowerment Project

• Zara Latifi, California – California Youth Connection