Meet MCC's 2025-26 Youth Advisory Board
Making Caring Common is thrilled to welcome the students of the 2025-26 Youth Advisory Board (YAB).
MCC’s Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a diverse group of high school students from across the country who are committed to making schools more caring and respectful places through everyday interactions. Throughout the academic year, members of the YAB help devise solutions to the most pressing moral issues and social challenges of their peer groups, as well as provide feedback on MCC’s ideas and strategies.
YAB members also receive mentorship from MCC staff and guidance from each other as they work on personal or group projects related to themes of empathy, caring, and fairness.
We invite you to get to know our new members below and to join us in celebrating their dedication to making a positive impact in the world.
Adrishya K.
Goes to school in: Omaha, NE
Why YAB? I want to ensure that students feel safe at school.
Someone who inspires me is… My dad inspires me. He came from a poor family in India, but due to his drive was able to immigrate to America and is now a very successful surgeon. From a very young age, his dream was always to leave India and become a doctor to help those in need — and he did. I want to have that motivation as I grow older.
What brings me joy? Amusement parks, specifically Disney World/land, bring me so much joy. I really love to be around positive people who are having fun, and I enjoy themed rides as well. It also gives my family an excuse to spend time together — and it’s impossible for my brother and I to fight at Disney World!
Afya S.
Goes to school in: Burlington, MA
Why YAB? I am able to use my voice to help bring about change by collaborating with others to create a more inclusive and kind environment.
Someone who inspires me is… My brothers are my inspiration because their hard work motivates me to be my best self.
What brings me joy? My family and friends make me happy because I love spending time with them, whether it’s late-night talks or midnight food runs.
Akash V.
Goes to school in: San Angelo, TX
Why YAB? To advocate for kindness as a core youth value!
Someone who inspires me is… My parents inspire me greatly because of the hard work and sacrifices they made throughout their lives to help me and my sister advance in life.
What brings me joy? Learning new things that challenge and excite me.
Anvee S.
Goes to school in: Santa Clara, CA
Why YAB? I want to help professionals make a difference at schools.
Someone who inspires me is… Christina Yang from one of my favorite TV shows, Grey's Anatomy. She is driven and hardworking and never apologizes for her ambition. Her confidence in her abilities reminds me that its ok to set high goals and stay true to your passions, especially as a woman in competitive spaces.
What brings me joy? Coffee, listening to Noah Kahan music, and rainy days.
April s.
Goes to school in: Cocoa, FL
Why YAB? Uplift communities through stewardship and meaningful, human-centered work.
Someone who inspires me is… Someone who inspires me is Nikola Tesla. I grew up hearing about him in my household all the time and reading his biographies, and even though he died long before I was born, I’ve always admired how he dedicated his life to serving people through his inventions. What inspires me most is that he cared more about advancing technology for humanity than for money or recognition, and even though he doesn’t get enough credit today, his legacy and the way he thought continue to guide and motivate me.
What brings me joy? Creating things that solve problems and make life a little better for someone else.
Brendon W.
Goes to school in: Alhambra, CA
Why YAB? To help spread empathy in our communities.
Someone who inspires me is… My older sister; she is the most resilient and hardest-working person I know. She is my biggest cheerleader, but not afraid to call me out when I'm in the wrong — she makes want to strive for more and think bigger.
What brings me joy? Hikes, '80s Hong Kong music, and long walks
Carlotta G.
Goes to school in: Cambridge, MA
Why YAB? To deepen quiet care into lasting, collaborative change.
Someone who inspires me is… Emily Brontë inspires me because she lived quietly but imagined fiercely. Her writing reveals a deep, wild strength beneath calmness which I really admire. I think this quote of hers truly encapsulates her essence: “The world is full of beauty when the heart is full of love.”
What brings me joy? I think what truly brings me joy is art. Without art, stories or beautiful things or moments I would go mad.
Claire M.
Goes to school in: Beltsville, MD
Why YAB? Elevate youth voices, inspire empathy, and transform school communities.
Someone who inspires me is… Someone who inspires me is my mom. Growing up, I watched her balance her job as a babysitter, the backbone of my family, and everything in between without ever complaining. As an immigrant, she built a new life from almost nothing, and even when things got tough, she stayed grounded. What inspires me most about my mom is her strength. Her strength shows up in quiet ways through small sacrifices, long nights, and constant support. My mom’s determination and love motivates me to work harder and stay focused no matter what’s in front of me.
What brings me joy? Hanging out with my friends, playing video games, listening to music (specifically TWICE), and bringing opportunities to others in my community.
Destry S.
Goes to school in: Los Alamitos, CA
Why YAB? I want people to be better to others and themselves.
Someone who inspires me is… It may seem odd, but Matthew Patrick, the former host of the YouTube channel Game Theory, is someone who inspires me. He has shown perseverance in his own life in ways that are grounded and relatable; it gives me hope that I can make it through the inevitable challenges that I'll have to face and still be able to pursue my passions.
What brings me joy? Making videos, dabbling in different creative fields, video games, and taking time with loved ones all bring me joy.
ELLA C.
Goes to school in: Spring, TX
Why YAB? I loved it last year and I know I will this year too.
Someone who inspires me is… My dad inspires me because he is a surgeon and I love scrubbing in to watch him work.
What brings me joy? My family, friends, hobby time, the gym and animals
EMILY G.
Goes to school in: San Francisco, CA
Why YAB? To continue my life mission of improving education for all.
Someone who inspires me is… Someone who inspires me is Supervisor Connie Chan, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Interning for her showed me the impact of dedicated public service and motivated me to pursue a career in policy that truly serves the community.
What brings me joy? What brings me joy is seeing a sunset from a high viewpoint because of the way the colors stretch across the sky. It just makes me feel peaceful and alive and it's a great activity to do with your friends anytime you need to take a break from the stress of life.
GRACE L.
Goes to school in: Syosset, NY
Why YAB? Shared passion for embedding care into education and leadership.
Someone who inspires me is… My parents inspire me with their quiet sacrifices and unwavering support. They’ve been my compass and first believers, offering encouragement, wisdom, and guidance that comes from both words of comfort and leading with example.
What brings me joy? Making others’ day brighter—I like to make myself useful. It is one of my core values to serve and help others, especially those in need or communities who are underserved.
Imani K.
Goes to school in: Albuquerque, NM
Why YAB? To spread the light that makes us caring people
Someone who inspires me is… When I think of a role model, my mind immediately travels to my Nani (grandmother), Sherbanoo. She always gives me the confidence to put my best foot forward, no matter which difficulties I am facing. I am grateful to have a female Indian immigrant as my family's "man of the house". She also cooks the yummiest food!
What brings me joy? The preservation of my identity as an Ismaili Muslim through service work, bringing justice to people and communities who have faced hardship, unconditional kindness, and finding things in life that expand my capacity for love.
ISAIAH H.
Goes to school in: Florence, MS
Why YAB? I want to inspire others to change the world, including myself
Someone who inspires me is… The person who I look up to most would be my late grandfather who was head director of bands at Jackson State University. The legacy that him and my grandma bestowed at that campus will forever have an impact on my life.
What brings me joy? My friends, church, and my family all bring me Joy!
JOEL R.
Goes to school in: Metuchen, NJ
Why YAB? Shaping youth programs that create lasting, meaningful community impact together.
Someone who inspires me is… Maria Montessori inspires me, because her student‑centered approach in education changed how educators understand and nurture every child’s potential.
What brings me joy? Discovering a great book and getting lost in its world or just sitting outside on a warm day, soaking in the quiet and fresh air.
Jonathan G.
Goes to school in: Tallahassee, FL
Why YAB? I believe caring should be the standard we live by.
Someone who inspires me is… My brother because he pushes me to be better than himself.
What brings me joy? Making people smile :)
JOSUE P.
Goes to school in: South Hamilton, MA
Why YAB? Empowering youth nationwide sows seeds of lasting change,
Someone who inspires me is… My father is someone who inspires me every day, as he motivates me to be a hard worker and as caring as he is to the people around me.
What brings me joy? Food, music, and spending time with family brings me the most joy.
Justin Y.
Goes to school in: La Habra, CA
Why YAB? Influence society with positive changes to ensure a steady future
Someone who inspires me is… My uncle because he preserved through his difficult young adulthood and achieved success and happiness through believing in God and working hard.
What brings me joy? Spending time with my friends and family living our fullest
Leana S.
Goes to school in: River Edge, NJ
Why YAB? To integrate empathy and inclusion into future generations with research
Someone who inspires me is… AOC, she is always unashamedly and confidently herself
What brings me joy? Having a heartwarming and interesting conversation with a stranger
Madelyn Q.
Goes to school in: Katy, TX
Why YAB? Connecting with like-minded teens and normalizing a culture of well-being.
Someone who inspires me is… Both of my grandmothers. Coming from tough backgrounds made them not just strong, but also full of love and grace. I strive to uphold their example in all I do.
What brings me joy? Sunlight peeking through trees during golden hour, endorphins after working out, experiencing childlike wonder, 1:55 of Champagne Coast by Blood Orange, my family!
MARY A.
Goes to school in: Houston, TX
Why YAB? To help shape a world grounded in empathy and justice.
Someone who inspires me is… My parents inspire me through their resilience, love, and unwavering belief in building a better future. They made the difficult decision to leave everything behind and immigrate to the U.S. so that my siblings and I could have opportunities they never had. Watching them work tirelessly, often without recognition, taught me the value of perseverance, humility, and hope.
What brings me joy? I enjoy building community, especially by mentoring younger students and creating inclusive spaces where others can grow and feel genuinely empowered. I also love storytelling through writing, speaking, and creative projects as a way to inspire and spark connection.
May S.
Goes to school in: Newport Coast, CA
Why YAB? Empowering youth to lead with empathy, voice, and purpose.
Someone who inspires me is… My dad inspires me because he’s taught me to focus on doing my best with each step, instead of chasing distant goals without meaning. He reminds me that real success isn’t about big dreams alone, but about showing up every day with effort, integrity, and care. His steady guidance and the way he lives his values have shaped how I approach challenges.
What brings me joy? Sharing delicious food, helping the homeless, and being in nature.
MEERA s.
Goes to school in: Oak Park, CA
Why YAB? To cultivate more compassionate communities and foster meaningful connections
Someone who inspires me is… My grandparents! Seeing the sacrifices they have made to provide better lives for their children and grandchildren, having to assimilate to new environments while simultaneously protecting their culture and origin, and being privileged to receive their wise knowledge is inspiring.
What brings me joy? My friends and family, books, dance, late night swimming, and traveling to new locations are a few of the fragmented puzzle pieces that define my identity and love. But what makes these things important is the experiences they bring; such as laughing so hard with a new friend that my stomach aches, finding a new song that perfectly suits my ‘vibe’, or enjoying a new food that I was initially hesitant on trying! It’s the little moments within my passions that fill me with so much joy - and I can’t wait to continue finding them
Orlyola T.
Goes to school in: El Paso, TX
Why YAB? To find solutions to social challenges in schools
Someone who inspires me is… My dad: he inspires me to reach for the stars. To never question my strength and be afraid of my chasing my dreams. He always tells me there’s no limit to what I can achieve. Without him, I wouldn’t be the leader I am today. He pushes me to be resilient, a go getter, loyal, compassionate, determined and more. He has instilled a passion for service in me, teaching me the value of never forgetting where you come from.
What brings me joy? Seeing the tangible impact of my actions. The reactions on peoples faces when they receive something, the joy they have when they’re given a new opportunity such as one of my scholarships for schooling.
Ryan L.
Goes to school in: Oakland, CA
Why YAB? To help build transformational bridges across political and social barriers
Someone who inspires me is… David Hogg inspires me for being the youth who actively stands up against not just our political "opponents" but also the people who say they represent us. He fights for the youth, the group of people already ready to take action for our dying planet.
What brings me joy? Singing and theater and making Asian dipping sauces
Sahana S.
Goes to school in: Mason, OH
Why YAB? I love MCC's mission and believe that compassion changes lives!
Someone who inspires me is… My mother, because she is the most resilient, hardworking, and compassionate person I know.
What brings me joy? Playing the piano, drinking coffee, spending time with my family, listening to music. When a curious child asks me a question, because it reminds me of how eager I was to learn everything about the world around me.
Sahasra Y.
Goes to school in: Allen, TX
Why YAB? Collective kindness and radical empathy are the core of humanity.
Someone who inspires me is… David Attenborough inspires me due to his everlasting determination to protect our planet's flora and fauna, as well as for his ability to show aspects of our humanity reflected in nature.
What brings me joy? Discovering and curating music across decades, genres, and cultures.
Sanya N.
Goes to school in: Medfield, MA
Why YAB? To help make empathy and fairness common in every school.
Someone who inspires me is… Ida B Wells because of her relentless fight for racial and gender equity
What brings me joy? Making people realize that their voices matter and they all contribute something unique to the table
Shayl K.
Goes to school in: Santa Monica, CA
Why YAB? To promote understanding, mutual respect, and empathy among youth.
Someone who inspires me is… I recently completed a project on Kala Bagai, one of the first Indian women to immigrate to California. Bagai inspires me because she refused to let discrimination and hardship define her; instead, she built a lasting community and safe space for South Asian Americans.
What brings me joy? I love spending time with friends, after-dinner walks with my parents and sister, and reading chamber music.
Vanessa L.
Goes to school in: Leonardtown, MD
Why YAB? YAB exemplifies a commitment to identifying solutions that serve the greater good.
Someone who inspires me is… I am inspired by my mother, a person who I believe is the most selfless person in the world.
What brings me joy? I find joy in helping my community, no matter how trivial the task
Vani M.
Goes to school in: Acton, MA
Why YAB? To create an inclusive, fair, and safe atmosphere for all.
Someone who inspires me is… My older sister, Anya. She is a strong and dedicated individual who always works toward her goals. She taught me what true “leadership” means, and how it is not just the label of being a captain of a sports team or president of a club, but it is the “what” you do and “how” you do it, that makes you a leader.
What brings me joy? Spending time with my friends and family brings me the most joy. Whether this is simply sharing stories about our day, baking brownies together, or going on walks around the neighborhood - spending time with the people in my life allows me to relax, laugh, and wind down after a long day. I especially value this time because I can be myself with the people in my life; I don't have to act a certain way or be conscious about what I say --- I feel safe and comfortable, which I believe is something everyone should have in their lives.
Wemi B.
Goes to school in: Gill, MA
Why YAB? I want to connect with people and make positive change!
Someone who inspires me is… Muhammad Ali inspires me a lot. Not just because of his achievements in boxing, but because of the strength of his character outside the ring. I admire how he stood by his beliefs, even though it meant sacrificing his career. His brazen confidence, his commitment to his faith, and his ability to thoughtfully speak out on important issues – all these resonates with me. I can only hope to carry the same sense of self-assurance that he had!
What brings me joy? I enjoy listening to music the most and exploring the diverse genres spanning different eras. Music is something that truly resonates with me deep in my soul so you'll always catch me with an AirPods in my ear, lol.
