This Summer’s Fellows

This summer, we are welcoming five fellows who will spend ten weeks working across Brooklyn in community‑based organizations that reflect their interests, and long‑term goals. Each fellow brings a different story, a different passion, and a real commitment to public service.

Below is an introduction to who they are and the work they care about.

Hassan Osman

Hassan Osman is a freshman at Syracuse University studying neuroscience and psychology on the pre-med track.

He is especially interested in concussion regulation for student athletes and is passionate about improving athlete safety and well-being. His interest in the medical field is rooted in a strong desire to support others and make a positive, lasting impact on the lives of those around him. Outside of academics, Hassan enjoys going to the gym and taking long walks with friends. Through his interests in medicine, leadership, and community engagement, he hopes to build a future dedicated to helping others through healthcare.

Gabriella Aviles

Gabriella Aviles is a psychology major and sociology minor at Mount Holyoke College.

She currently works at the Weissman Center for Leadership as a Leadership Fellow. She also serves as co-chair for the First Generation Low-Income Partnership, secretary for the Community, Education and Action Club, and senator for the Film Society. Gabby is also a DJ for WMHC. Outside of school, Gabby has worked for nonprofits in NYC, completed a summer as a camp counselor, and has been a Hispanas Organized for Political Equality College Leadership Scholar. Gabby wants to pursue a career in mental health and eventually work as a licensed psychologist. After graduation, she hopes to attend graduate school and gain more experience in the fields of mental health, human services, and public service. Gabby hopes to one day obtain a PhD in Clinical Psychology.

Mariama Ceesay

Mariama Ceesay is a first-generation, first-year student at Lehman College intending to major in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Business.

She is passionate about personal growth, education, and giving back to her community. As a fellow, she looks forward to gaining valuable experience, developing professional skills, and making a positive impact.

Jolene Kim

Jolene Kim is a rising sophomore at Fordham University.

She was born and raised in Brooklyn. Jolene is passionate about law, advocacy, and social justice and is an aspiring lawyer. As a Hope Fellow, she wants to continue her advocacy efforts to uplift underrepresented voices to make an impact on her community.

Jeshua Daniel Jimenez

Jeshua Daniel Jimenez is a high-achieving student at Fordham University, double majoring in Political Science and International Relations on a Pre-Law track.

He has a strong background in advocacy, having served on Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson’s Bronx Youth Council, participated in Defying Legal Gravity to deepen his legal knowledge, and been involved in YVote as a youth activist where he spread awareness on civic engagement and the importance of voting during election season. At Fordham, Jeshua is an active member of the Model United Nations team as a crisis delegate and soon-to-be vice president. He also works at Lincoln Square Legal Services, gaining hands-on legal experience in research, case preparation, and client interaction. He aspires to serve as a criminal defense lawyer and work toward fixing the unjust legal system in the United States.

Registration for the 2026 Run/Walk for Hope on Saturday, April 25, at 9 am is now open. You will have the option to participate in a 5k or a 10k. Register here.

Apply here by December 31, 2025, for priority consideration.

This summer, we welcomed five fellows across New York to make a difference in Brooklyn for ten weeks. Below is further information on who they are and their passions.

Akaylah Rose is a Criminal Justice Major at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and an aspiring lawyer/politician. She enjoys reading, singing, cooking, and interacting with people. She is excited to join this fellowship because it allows me to work with under-represented groups and be the voice for change in communities.

Andrea Cruz Camacho was born and raised in Brooklyn and is a first-gen, first-year student at Wagner College majoring in International Affairs and Sociology. Her experience from her family’s socio-economic situation is a driving force for civic engagement for the underprivileged. As a fellow, she is most excited to learn more about how she can use her voice to advocate for the needs of others and increase my participation in her local community.

Chelsea Rivas is a rising sophomore at Cornell University with intentions to major in Government. She was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and is of Ecuadorian descent. As a first-generation college student, she is passionate about giving back to her community and advocating for representation for underrepresented communities.

Laila Terrell is a rising junior at Syracuse University, majoring in political philosophy with a minor in Spanish Language and Literature. She loves to swim, work out, and watch scary movies. She’s most excited about the professional learning aspect of the fellowship and meeting individuals who will inspire her to achieve my goals or find new ones.

MingXi Chau is a junior at Williams College studying Economics, with an interest in Political Science and Asia Studies. Currently, she is engaged in research related to community and economic development, specifically in underserved communities. As a Hope fellow, she hopes to continue her work in serving the community and pursue a career in the public sector.

Registration for the 2025 Run/Walk for Hope on Saturday, April 26 at 9 am is now open. Last year was a historic year for turnout and we hope that this year will be as well. You will have the option of participating in a 5k or 10k. Register here.