UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA | SENIOR FELLOW

UCF junior majoring in Civil Engineering with minors in Spanish and Marketing. A creative at heart, Deja blends her technical studies with a passion for art, design, and connecting through collaboration. Deja is passionate about the issue of mental health and shares: “Raising mental health awareness today means we can reach more people and help them build healthy coping strategies that will stay with them for life.”

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA | RETURNING FELLOW

Pre-law student at Valencia College committed to social justice, leadership, and service. As a Ginsburg Fellow, she focuses on challenging systemic barriers to help make equity the standard, not the exception.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA | RETURNING FELLOW

Second year Industrial Engineering student at UCF, when he isn't busy studying, he works a College Work Experience Participant at UCF/Lockheed Martin, in his spare time he enjoys reading, listing to music, and going on walks.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

A Venezuelan junior at UCF majoring in Psychology, Clinical Track. For her, psychology is more than a discipline; it is a calling rooted in a passion for understanding and supporting others. A driven leader focused on advocacy, mental health, and community empowerment, she is committed to making a meaningful and lasting impact. Through public speaking, volunteering, and service, she works to uplift and empower her community.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

University of Central Florida student majoring in Information Technology. Passionate about cybersecurity, community outreach, and leadership, Matthew serves as the Pre-Collegiate Initiative Chair for National Society of Black Engineers, where he helps organize STEM workshops and mentorship opportunities for K–12 students. He is especially passionate about increasing access to technology education and creating spaces where students feel encouraged to explore STEM careers and leadership opportunities.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

A sophomore currently majoring in Social Sciences and Psychology major on the pre-medicine track. I have always aspired to be a well-rounded physician, part of that being aware of my community and its struggles. I also truly enjoy music and play the clarinet in my free time,

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

My name is Melanie Sanchez, and I am a first-generation college student at the University of Central Florida pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice while beginning my Master of Public Administration in Fall 2026. My long-term goal is to attend law school and build a career focused on public service, advocacy, and criminal justice reform. Throughout my time at UCF, I have worked in leadership and engagement roles centered around student success, civil discourse, mentorship, and community impact through programs such as CREAR Futuros and the Ginsburg Center for Inclusion & Community Engagement. These experiences have strengthened my passion for communication, leadership, and creating spaces where people from different backgrounds and perspectives feel heard and valued. I am especially interested in the intersection of law, policy, and community advocacy, and I hope to continue building meaningful connections with professionals and mentors who are dedicated to creating positive change in their communities.

STETSON UNIVERSITY

A second year student at Stetson University majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Mathematics. Growing up in a military family, she's passionate about fostering inclusive communities and building connections across diverse backgrounds. “You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” ― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations.

STETSON UNIVERSITY

Finance and Economics major at Stetson University with a minor in Marketing. I serve as Chief Investment Officer of the Roland George Investment Program, where I lead equity research, portfolio strategy, and investment pitches. I am also President of Pi Kappa Alpha, overseeing chapter operations and leadership development. My interests center on fundamental analysis, identifying mispriced assets, and building disciplined investment processes.

ROLLINS COLLEGE

Pre-law senior at Rollins College pursuing double majors in Political Science and Public Policy. She grew up in Central Florida and, as a Ginsburg-Phoenix Fellow, would connect these communities through dialogue. Passionate about local governance, she aims to address the intersection of health policy and everyday cross-cutting social issues through civic engagement.

ROLLINS COLLEGE

Rollins College student, majoring in Political Science and International Relations, is committed to fostering civic engagement and promoting equal footing across diverse communities through service and collaboration. As a Democracy Project Ambassador, she encourages meaningful dialogue and active participation in democratic processes on campus. Through her leadership and focus on ethical engagement, she works to amplify student voices and strengthen a more inclusive and engaged campus community.

ROLLINS COLLEGE | RETURNING FELLOW

A curious and passionate learner who embraces every opportunity and challenge. Sara brings energy and an adventurous spirit to her community engagement work. She is a student at the Rollin’s Holt School.

ROLLINS COLLEGE

Ella Afrifa is a student at Rollins College studying Computer Science and International Relations. She previously served as a Peer Educator with the Center for Community and Connections and as an International Student Senator in Student Government. She is also a founding member of the Abolition Advocacy Project, which advocates for incarcerated individuals and promotes justice-centered dialogue on campus. Ella received an award from the National Parliamentary Debate Association for her achievements in debate and has been actively involved in Model United Nations and civic engagement initiatives. She will serve as a Resident Assistant for first-year students at Rollins College and is currently interning with Neutral Zone, a youth-driven community organization in Ann Arbor that empowers young people through education, leadership development, creative arts, and social justice initiatives.

VALENCIA COLLEGE

Brazilian international student at Valencia College, studying Economics. A campus leader and Book Nerds club founder, Nicolle is passionate about global affairs, diplomacy, and faith-driven service.

VALENCIA COLLEGE

Kelly Ng is a graphic design and communications student, creative leader, and Phoenix Fellow with a passion for communication, cultural diversity, and community impact. She is proudly Venezuelan with Chinese roots, an identity that has shaped her appreciation for diversity, dialogue, and cultural connection. Through experiences such as Model United Nations, student art exhibitions, and collaborative design work, Kelly has developed strong skills in leadership, teamwork, visual storytelling, and public communication. As both a designer and communicator, Kelly believes creativity is a powerful tool for expression, connection, and change. She is passionate about creating spaces where people feel represented, heard, and empowered to share their voices. Through the Phoenix Fellowship, she hopes to continue growing as a leader while inspiring inclusion and positive change within her community.

VALENCIA COLLEGE

Mohammed Zayn is an international student from Uganda studying Information Technology. Driven by a passion for student engagement and peer mentoring, he is dedicated to fostering inclusive, cross-cultural environments both on and off campus. An honors student, Zayn balances his academic excellence with active leadership, serving as the Executive Vice President of his Phi Theta Kappa chapter and an Event Coordinator for the Valencia International Club. Looking ahead, he will leverage his leadership and communication skills as an Official Volunteer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he hopes to contribute to a positive and globally connected fan experience.

VALENCIA COLLEGE

Nathanaelle Conserve is a student at Valencia College majoring in Business Administration and Management. She is passionate about culture, languages, global affairs, community engagement, and faith-driven activities. With a strong interest in leadership and service, Nathanaelle enjoys connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and exploring how business can create positive change in local and global communities. Beyond academics, she actively seeks opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute through volunteerism, professional development, and cross-cultural experiences. Through her knowledge and experience, she is eager to make a meaningful impact in the world.

VALENCIA COLLEGE

Annese Williams is a Florida native and student leader passionate about advocacy, service, and creating meaningful connections within her community. She believes leadership is about serving others and creating spaces where people feel heard, supported, and empowered. As the Collegewide Student Government Association President at Valencia College, she works to amplify student voices and strengthen connections between students and college leadership. Annese plans to transfer to the University of Florida to continue her education and further her commitment to helping others thrive. Her passion for leadership stems from knowing how important it is to have someone who listens, supports, and believes in you. Through her involvement on campus and in the community, she strives to be that source of encouragement and advocacy for others. When she is not on campus, Annese enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures and cuisines, taking long walks, spending time with family, and growing in her faith. She hopes to use her voice, experiences, and leadership to inspire others to lead with confidence, compassion, and purpose.

SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE

Student leader at Seminole State College involved in Seminole State Volunteers. I have a passion for serving my community and finding ways to brighten up someone's day. With my free time, I enjoy acting, exercising, and finding new challenges to overcome. Currently, I am working towards getting my AA in Kinesiology.

SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE

An honors graduate in Information Science & Technology, currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree and driven by a passion for all things tech. When I'm not deep in coursework or exploring the latest in the tech world, you can find me on the golf course, at the bowling lanes, or playing my favorite video games. Equal parts scholar and nerd.

FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY

Dedicated college student with a strong interest in event production, media, and live experiences. Through my work with student event crews and hands-on industry opportunities, I have developed skills in production, teamwork, and problem-solving in fast-paced environments. I am passionate about gaining real-world experience, growing as a leader, and continuing to develop both creatively and professionally. As a Phoenix Fellow, I am excited to expand my network, learn from industry leaders, and take the next step in my career.

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA | RETURNING FELLOW

Vrajesh Patel is a Health Science major at the University of Florida on the pre-med track. He is committed to advancing community well-being through service, leadership, and dialogue across diverse perspectives. Having previously led the Central Florida Peace Pledge program at Doctor Phillips High School, he now works to expand its impact at UF through initiatives that promote workplace understanding, civic engagement, and conflict resolution. His long term goal is to become a physician, combining a passion for medical innovation and patient care with a dedication to serving patients and strengthening community systems.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA | RETURNING FELLOW

Ambika Chottani is a first-generation college student at the University of South Florida studying Biomedical Sciences and Anthropology. She is passionate about the intersection of healthcare, social equity, and education. At USF, she is involved in healthcare research focused on understanding patients beyond the chart and advancing dialogue around patient-centered care and healthcare policy. Her journey began through work on remembrance walks and educational curricula centered on history, empathy, and social awareness. Through both her research and advocacy, Ambika aims to show that understanding our history and one another is the first step toward change, because it starts with us!

HAGERTY HIGH SCHOOL

Rising senior at Hagerty High School with a strong dedication to leadership and academic achievement through involvement with multiple honor societies. I am invested in finding ways to foster community and cultural connection. I take on leadership roles inside and outside school to help support diverse groups through service and communication initiatives. As a varsity tennis player, I have developed discipline, resilience, and teamwork skills that I apply to my academic and community efforts.

HAGERTY HIGH SCHOOL

Rising junior at Hagerty High. Connor is a varsity member of the cross country and track team, and involved in the National Honors Society. He hopes his work will help those on the spectrum feel welcomed and included in their community.

LAKE MARY HIGH SCHOOL | RETURNING FELLOW

Mila has been volunteering in the Central Florida community since age six. A junior, she serves as Co-Vice President of Drama Club and Beta Club and loves reading, writing, performing, and exploring art history, English literature, and classic novels. Mila hopes to leave a legacy of creativity, compassion, and service. She lives by the motto she coined: “cure with kindness.”

LAKE MARY HIGH SCHOOL

I am a creative and determined student. I am a kind and reliable friend to others, I listen to what everyone says and state my thoughts respectfully. Overall, I am a positive and optimistic. “If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours” - Dolly Parton

TRINITY PREP SCHOOL | RETURNING FELLOW

As a returning Phoenix fellow she is passionate about making a real change in her community especially with minorities.She hopes to fix issues of gentrification and discrimination against different races by pursuing her love for urban planning and law. “"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." — Dr. Maya Angelou

TRINITY PREP SCHOOL

Vaishnavi is a first-year Phoenix Fellow and junior committed to serving the Central Florida community. She contributes through her school’s Diversity Council, UNICEF Club leadership, the TPS Investment Fund, and as novice debate captain. With over 300 volunteer hours, she enjoys Model UN and playing violin. Guided by “keep going” from Winston Churchill, she hopes to expand her impact through this fellowship.

TRINITY PREP SCHOOL

Anjali discovered her passion for service and building strong connections through volunteering at the VA Hospital since her freshman year. She takes every opportunity around her by actively participating in her school community through Student Government and as President of SADD, where she works to create safe spaces for those around her. She has a passion for Psychology and hopes to study it in her future, with plans to pursue a career in the medical field.

WINTER PARK HIGH SCHOOL

Student at Winter Park High School. She is active in the arts and is on the tennis team at her school. Asha is very interested in inspiring change in her community by working with her peers toward what they are passionate about.

WINTER PARK HIGH SCHOOL

Yuka is a motivated pre-IB student at Winter Park High School who actively seeks new learning opportunities. She values community, diversity, and effective communication. Although technology is prevailing in society, Yuka finds face-to-face interaction most meaningful. She believes in teamwork and open-mindedness, and she is enthusiastic about making a positive impact on this generation and those to come. “The biggest risk is not taking a risk” -Mark Zuckerberg

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH SCHOOL

Bryce is inspired to make change in the community creating a safe space for all community members. Including bringing inclusivity to different areas and giving opportunities to community members that want to be apart of making change within the community.

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH SCHOOL

An upcoming senior at Dr. Phillips High School. As an immigrant from Brazil, Helena hopes to use this platform to advocate for those often overshadowed in society, making connections with other community leaders to provide medical assistance and overall representation.

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH SCHOOL

Current Center for International Studies Magnet and Medical Academy student at Dr. Phillips High School. I love being involved in my community, spending time with my family, and playing Clarinet. I am extremely exited to be able to be a fellow and work with Phoenix Generation this year! "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better" - Maya Angelou