Jessica is a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, whose journey began in Guerrero, Mexico and led her to Fresno, California. At Community Justice Alliance, Jessica creates opportunities for Central Valley youth to explore their own potential, engage in art therapy, and link with partners for long-term success regardless of immigration status. She is an eager advocate for positive, inclusive change in the immigrant community. Jessica previously worked with the non-profit Fresno Immigrant youth in Action (FIYA) to develop immigrant youth leadership in in partnership with non-profit organizations and schools.
 
Jessica’s pursued education to lift up youth, and she strives to provide a safe space for youth to organize for a stronger future. She has a BA in liberal studies from California State University, Fresno with a focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math)  and child development. Jessica’s educational and professional career has spanned multiple positions which have allowed her to make meaningful connections with youth of varying ages and backgrounds. Jessica has worked as an educator in Fresno for the past seven years. She has created lesson plans and written curriculum for her students every term, often drawing back to her personal lived experiences to guide her understanding of others. Her years spent working with youth have fostered a passion to help youth have equal and fair access to resources and tools they can use to be successful.