Ivana was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles and is a former foster youth who was raised in kinship care. She is currently studying psychology and biology at the University of California, Irvine, where she has developed a passion for understanding how people, communities, and public systems work together.

As a multidisciplinary learner, she enjoys exploring the intersections of psychology, neuroscience, education, financial stability, and public policy. She believes lasting change happens when these fields work together to improve community well-being.

Ivana’s lived experiences have inspired her to advocate for foster youth, kinship families, individuals experiencing homelessness, and animal welfare. Whether through education, community engagement, or service, she hopes to contribute to solutions that strengthen opportunities for others.

Ivana is excited to participate in the National Foster Youth Institute because she wants to learn from leaders who are shaping policy and creating change. Her goal is to better understand how thoughtful leadership can translate research, lived experience, and community voices into meaningful action.