Archibald Ramey (Archie), a disabled former foster youth, works with Hennepin County’s non-profit organization, Youthprise. Archie lived in Minnesota’s foster care system from the age of thirteen until he aged out in 2021. He and his four younger siblings, despite being separated, have grown and accomplished so much in their short lives. After struggling to find a stable home at seventeen, Archie discovered Avenues for Youth and their Conneqt program. Avenues for Youth provided him with housing in the Twin Cities, where he found a family and developed a passion for helping others facing similar challenges.
Archie views his role at Youthprise as a crucial step in understanding the underlying reasons for societal issues. His long-term goals include pursuing a Ph.D. in criminal psychology and eventually becoming an agent at the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. While he acknowledges that he has a long way to go before he can protect our country’s citizens, he believes that making a positive impact in Hennepin County is more than worth the effort. Having experienced homelessness firsthand, Archie is determined to do everything he can to support other youth who lack advocates.

Bryant is a dynamic community organizer who has had experience with housing instability and homelessness while independently navigating life when he was 18 years old. Now at 24, as a model, photographer, and multidisciplinary artist, Bryant is dedicated to making a positive impact. With a keen eye for beauty and a passion for social change, Bryant uses their diverse talents to inspire and uplift others. Whether through organizing community events, capturing stunning photographs, or modeling with grace, Bryant brings creativity, compassion, and leadership to every endeavor.

Darius Stone is a dedicated youth activist and skilled massage therapist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With a deep passion for healing through love and touch, he believes in the power of connection and thoughtful reflection to foster positive change. Known for their resilience, hard work, and adaptability, Darius Stone approaches both their advocacy and therapeutic work with a strong sense of professionalism and purpose. Whether working with young people to create a better future or helping clients find physical and emotional relief, he is committed to making a meaningful impact on the world around him.

Bio coming soon.

Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, Janesha’s early life was shaped by challenges like poverty and parental substance abuse. However, these experiences fueled her determination for a brighter future. In 2010, her family moved to Minnesota, seeking new opportunities, and by 2014, Janesha began high school at the High School for Recording Arts. Embracing the transformative power of education, she graduated as the valedictorian of the Class of 2019.

Driven by a passion for learning and growth, Janesha pursued her interests in business through curriculum, training, and courses. She immersed herself in entrepreneurship, cosmetology, and plant-based cosmetics. She also discovered a talent for public speaking and event coordination, skills she has continued to hone. Now, at 24, Janesha is a thriving entrepreneur and dedicated social activist, working to expand access to life-saving education and equal opportunities for youth.

Janesha’s mission in life is to break generational curses and foster positive change, drawing immense joy from the exchange of knowledge and social capital. Her work is deeply rooted in a desire to create a better, more just world for future generations. Each step of her journey has been a humbling and rewarding experience, and she is committed to leaving behind a legacy of innovation and empowerment.

Reyn is a former foster youth, and has experienced homelessness in her late teens into early twenties. With lived experience, she has become a passionate and dedicated advocate for foster and homeless youth. She started working in advocacy and decided to have a career in creating systems change. Reyn is currently the Co-Chair for the Youth Advocacy Board supported by Hennepin County, as well as other supporting groups.

Sharell is a 17-year-old junior. Having lived all over Minneapolis throughout her childhood, she has been exposed to a great deal at a young age. Growing up as the child of a teen mom has also presented her with numerous challenges and obstacles that she continues to navigate to this day. Despite the challenges, she has always had a love for learning. Raised in a home where academic excellence was highly valued, it allowed her enthusiasm for knowledge to grow as she got older.

However, between middle school and her freshman year in high school, Sharell felt as though she had lost her love for learning. Her academic needs were not being met, and over time, she began to lose motivation. Frustrated with the lack of progress and wanting a better education, it led to her transfer to Exploration High School. There, in a student-led environment, Sharell felt seen and discovered her voice and love for student advocacy.

Since then, Sharell has dedicated much of her time to making an impact at the state Capitol, working on reimagining education systems and becoming increasingly involved. Along the way, she has earned numerous opportunities. Her goal is to always speak up about issues that often go unspoken and to be a powerful voice for the youth.

Hi, I’m Tomas! For the past nine months, I’ve been proud to work with the Youth Advisory Board (YAB), where I’ve found a meaningful way to give back to my community. I joined YAB because I believe in the importance of supporting others, especially young people, by creating opportunities and providing guidance. It’s rewarding to be part of a group that focuses on making a real difference and empowering others to succeed.