She/Her

18 years in care

Mariah is a passionate advocate for foster youth and juvenile justice reform with over 11 years of experience in advocacy. After entering foster care at the age of 4 in Fremont, California, she faced significant challenges, including over 80 placements. At 14, she began sharing her story, focusing on the need for better mental health support and legislation affecting foster youth. Mariah is actively involved in several initiatives, including the Reproductive Health and Equity Project on the Youth Advisory Board at National Center for Youth Law where she is also starting a new internship focused on SexEd, she’s a Project Assistant with California Youth Connection, and on a Lived Expert Panel the Behavioral Health Bridge Housing Program where she advises counties on strategic implementation to increase inclusion efforts for underserved communities in programs serving them. A devoted mother of two and a strong advocate, she is committed to broadening opportunities and improving outcomes for youth in care while pursuing her own further education.

State(s)
Team(s) or Cohort(s)
2024 Outstanding Young Leaders
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Mariah