Jessica, 23 years old, CA

Jessica entered the foster care system in her late teens and experienced many of the challenges that come with it, including instability, limited support, and the transition into adulthood on her own. Even with these challenges, she stayed focused on building a better future for herself and others. Her experiences shaped her passion for helping foster youth and underserved communities. Today, she works in case management, youth advocacy, and community leadership, using her story to support others and push for positive change. She also advocates for policy improvements and helps uplift the voices of foster youth across California. Jessica is known for her resilience, leadership, empathy, and determination. She uses her lived experience to connect with young people, mentor them, and help them navigate difficult systems. She is also active in creating safe and supportive spaces for foster youth and LGBTQ+ youth. Outside of her work, Jessica enjoys reading, personal growth, music, and spiritual practices like tarot, which help her reflect and stay grounded. She also enjoys creating cozy spaces and spending time with her community. What makes Jessica stand out is her ability to turn her lived experiences into purpose-driven advocacy and support for others. She brings compassion, authenticity, and creativity into everything she does, making her a strong and inspiring leader.

Wishes submitted by:

California Youth Connection