Alauna is a former foster youth from Camden County, NJ. She is a dedicated student at Rowan University, passionate about community outreach and enhancing the campus environment. Alauna applies these passions in her role with the DCF Youth Council. She enjoys pottery and has a broad interest in various music genres.

Alena Rowan is a former foster youth from Camden County, NJ, adopted at age 13. She studies biology at Ursinus College with aspirations for medical school. Active in campus life, she holds leadership roles in student organizations and is a certified EMT. Passionate about supporting her community, Alena aims to drive meaningful change for youth in the foster system. She is an enthusiastic Disney fan. 

Basiah Ali is a foster youth from Burlington County, NJ, who entered the system at 16. She was born in Philadelphia and moved to New Jersey at age 10. A high school senior, Basiah aspires to pursue a Master's in Social Work and become a licensed social worker and therapist. Her role on the council empowers her to advocate for change based on her personal experiences. She has a talent for Colorguard, showcasing impressive skills she learned during her sophomore and junior years. 

Bonaventure Awuibe is a member of the Youth Council residing in Middlesex County with his siblings. He is pursuing a degree in electrical engineering and aspires to lead a production team to fulfill his long-time dream. Through the council, Bonaventure aims to inspire youth in the foster care system. His hobbies include photography and music production. 

Chelsea Raimondo, from Cape May County and now residing in Essex County, is a former foster youth who entered care at age two. She studies Child Advocacy at Montclair State University, with minors in Social Work and Family Science. Chelsea aims to leverage her education and experiences to advocate for children in foster care. Her participation in the council focuses on driving systemic improvements and empowering future generations. She enjoys coloring and early 2000s music. 

My name is Esther Agyare. I am 22 years old and currently live in Essex County. I have been involved with DCF since the age of 16. My goal is to earn my degree in Physical Therapy and build a fulfilling life that I can now fully embrace. I am looking forward to serving on the council so I can support youth and families who are impacted by the system, while helping create meaningful change for young people currently in care. A fun fact about me is that I speak two languages and am working toward learning a third.

Jahod Matthews, a marketing major at Kean University, resides in Union, New Jersey. Born in Paterson, he entered foster care at six and was adopted at nine. Jahod aspires to work in music distribution, merging his marketing skills with his passion for music. He is committed to supporting children in foster care and adoption through informed advocacy. An accomplished musician, Jahod plays three instruments and has independently released two albums. 

Jazmai Kelly, known as "Kaylen," was born and raised in Essex County and entered the system at birth, and again at ten. They plan to re-apply to Rutgers University to further their education. Kaylen aspires to drive productive and realistic change, focusing on creating safe spaces for youth. Often found with a needle and fabric in hand, they're always eager to share their latest project. 

Keyla is a sophomore at Montclair State University, majoring in Criminal Justice. Affiliated with NJDCF since age 13, she aspires to become a detective focusing on child abuse and domestic violence cases. Keyla is committed to enhancing the NJ child welfare system through NJYRS, using her voice to advocate for the unheard. In her free time, she enjoys watching documentaries, reading, and shopping. 

Khabir Matthews, born in Paterson, New Jersey, entered the foster care system at four and was adopted at seven. He re-entered the system at 17 and is now at Rowan University. Khabir is a first-generation, independent student majoring in Construction Engineering and Management. He also owns a self-curated clothing brand, Wear More Art. Passionate about community building, he motivates youth to strive for excellence. 

Madison Johnson, from Ocean County, has been connected with DCF since age nine. She is the first in her family to graduate high school and attend college, beginning her studies at Ocean County College. Madison is passionate about pursuing a career to support children with similar experiences and is eager to contribute to her youth council role. She finds horses to be incredibly therapeutic. 

Minister Marquese Dukes-Samuels, from East Orange, NJ, is a preacher, philanthropist, singer, and musician. Passionate about music from a young age, he taught himself multiple instruments and developed his vocal talents. Marquese embraced his call to ministry at 15 and was licensed to preach at St. John Baptist Church in 2018. He founded the Love Over Loathe Foundation to support youth in Eastern New Jersey and aims to expand activism nationwide, focusing on homeless and foster youth. Currently, he serves on the Youth Council, advocating for policy reform and youth empowerment. A Cicely Tyson School of Performing and Fine Arts graduate, Marquese now studies Religion at Morehouse College, aspiring to further his ministry education. Guided by faith, he sees boundless possibilities for positive change. 

Monica Crispin, from Mercer County, is studying at Stockton University. Her connection with DCF stemmed from neglect at home, yet she excelled, securing internships and scholarships. She aims to earn a Master’s in Social Work and pursue clinical licensure. On the council, Monica is committed to teamwork and advocating for youth mental health. She enjoys braiding and envisions owning a salon, using braiding as a therapeutic tool. 

Nashae Moore, raised in Gloucester County, aged out of foster care at 21 and built her life from the ground up. Currently, she is studying to become a Medical Assistant while working as a teacher, aiming to make a meaningful impact. Joining the Youth Council allows her to use her story and voice to improve the system for future generations. A fun fact about Nashae is her love for the movie Lilo & Stitch, which premiered a day after her birth, making her feel a special connection to its magical chaos.

Paula Maldonado Guerrero is a senior majoring in Psychology and a first-generation college student with experiences in both Ecuador and the United States. Her time in the foster care system as a teenager inspired her passion for advocacy, education, and youth support. As a Youth Council member, Paula is dedicated to the well-being of children, youth, and families, emphasizing the importance of lived experiences, prevention, and support for lasting change. She aims to contribute her perspective while learning about policy, mental health awareness, and community resources. Paula plans to pursue a career in the mental health field, offering empathetic support to individuals and families. She enjoys meaningful conversations and discovering people's stories. 

Samara Billa, from Camden County, is a goal-oriented individual passionate about systemic change. Her experiences in the system have inspired her to improve child welfare, ensuring youth have greater access to support. Samara aspires to become a social worker to contribute positively to the foster system.