Ciera Cooper is based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and is passionate about improving outcomes for youth impacted by the foster care system. Having experienced foster care firsthand, she is committed to ensuring that young people in care are not only heard but also included in shaping the policies that shape their lives.

Ciera is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Social Work with plans to attend law school. She hopes to use her education to advocate for systemic reform within child welfare and juvenile justice systems for at-risk youth. Alongside her academic work, she actively engages in community advocacy, using her voice and lived experience to raise awareness about the realities of foster care and the long-term impact it has on youth transitioning into adulthood.

Ciera channels her passion into action through NFYI, focusing on policies that strengthen transitional support and promote stability for youth aging out of care. Through the Congressional Leadership Academy, she hopes to strengthen her policy knowledge, refine her leadership skills, and build relationships that will allow her to advocate more effectively at both the state and federal levels.

Beyond her advocacy work, Ciera enjoys combat sports, creative writing, taking care of all of her animals, & spending time making meaningful memories with her friends.