Brandon Washington is from Memphis, Tennessee, and is passionate about foster youth advocacy, juvenile justice, and policy reform. He dedicates his time to studying Political Science at the University of Memphis, serving as a leader in his fraternity, and working to amplify the voices of young people in policy discussions. 

Believing that “young people can change the world and still enjoy it at the same time,” Brandon channels his passion into action through NFYI, focusing on expanding resources and opportunities for foster youth, particularly in education and economic stability. Outside of NFYI, he is also involved in local government, youth mentorship, and community organizing, having run for office at the age of 19 to push for greater youth representation in politics. 

Beyond his advocacy work, Brandon enjoys public speaking, traveling, and exploring different cultures through language and history. He lives by the motto: “You get only one life, so live it like it’s the only one“. Through the Congressional Leadership Academy, he hopes to gain deeper insight into federal policymaking and legislative advocacy and apply it to creating policies that uplift foster youth and ensure they have access to the support they need to thrive.