The Next Generation of Advocacy Leadership

We’re bringing together college students from across New York City to take action where it matters most — in our communities.

You can help redefine what food security looks like for the next generation, connecting service with systems change and shaping solutions alongside those closest to the challenges.

Meet Our 2026 Leaders

They’re students. They’ve lived food insecurity. And they’re committed to changing it.

  • Aaliyah Bartholomew

    Medgar Evers College | Biology

  • Akanksha Mahanti

    Parsons School of Design, Strategic Design and Management

  • Brandy Moonasar

    Brooklyn College | Political Science

  • Malaika Walker

    Malaika Walker

    Pace University | Peace and Justice Studies

  • Niav Lorenzo

    Niav Lorenzo

    Parsons School of Design | Strategic Design and Management

Apply to Join the Council

If you believe food is a fundamental right and want to help shape a more equitable future for the next generation, we want to hear from you. Applications currently closed.

What You’ll Do

Host campus engagement efforts, raise awareness about food insecurity, volunteer at community pantries, and contribute to advocacy campaigns that influence real policy outcomes.

Reqirements

Time Commitment: ~5 hours per week

  • Join a weekly Advocacy Huddle (1 hour)

  • Attend policy and budget learning sessions

  • Volunteer at a local pantry

  • Organize or support campus-based advocacy efforts
  • Develop a project that raises awareness or advances solutions
  • Bring curiosity, courage, and a willingness to challenge the status quo

  • Comfort speaking up, building community, and inspiring peers

More Ways to Take Action

advocate

State Budget

City Budget