Youth Leaders
The Inclusion Project is led by Youth Leaders—diverse advocates from Virginia who use their voices, talents, and lived experiences with disability to drive meaningful initiatives. They co-create resources that support students, teachers, families, and communities. Founded on the vision of youth advocates with disabilities, the project continues to evolve under Youth Leaders' guidance.
Current Youth Leaders
Kim Drudge, Maidens
Why is inclusion important?
Well, it’s everything, as small as allowing a person with a disability to sit at the lunch table and join the conversation…or as big as serving in the military or becoming a first responder.
How will you change the world?
In a big way! First, I want to have an international law similar to the ADA in America! Also, I'd like technology to be accessible for blind users all over the world. I'd like all films, TV shows, YouTube videos, and music videos to be audio-described.
Jason Krause, Chesapeake
Why is inclusion important?
We (all) matter, Love wins.
How will you change the world?
Make everything accessible for everyone, to start.
Gabriel Quinones, Sterling
Why is inclusion important?
We get to learn, have fun with people, and get to meet new people. It brings us all together as a team.
How will you change the world?
I’m going to make the world a better place by being my own self and by being authentic.
Janai Santiago, Richmond
Why is inclusion important?
Inclusion means the world to me because it gives us opportunities and breaks down barriers
How will you change the world?
By advocating for inclusion in education. I’m passionate about education.
Joshua Simmons, Richmond
Why is inclusion important?
How will you change the world?
Tyonna Spencer, Richmond
Why is inclusion important?
How will you change the world?
Robert "Reeve" Thomas, Winchester
Why is inclusion important?
We can share snazzy ideas. We get to learn. Inclusion is a good thing but people can have a hard time with inclusion. WE can help them understand the benefits of inclusion. People will love the benefits.
How will you change the world?
By building peace through harmony to can make the souls of every nation better. It will bring hope to the world.
Current Advisor
Amanda Dailey, Mechanicsville
Past Youth Leaders
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- Zach Brown, Hopewell
- Alexander Campbell, Powhatan
- Annie Downing, Charlottesville
- MaKenna Elliot, Spotsylvania
- Caroline Holland, Virginia Beach
- Emily LeSueur, Fork Union
- Aaron Miller, Radford
- Alexis Nichols, Chesterfield
- Olivia Raymond, Chesapeake
- Maria Rivas, Manassas
- Matthew Shapiro, Glen Allen
- Nick Silvey, Glade Hill
- Cayden Stump, Harrisonburg
- Charles Terry, Monroe
- Robert Thomas, Winchester
- Taylor Thomas-Harris, S.Chesterfield
- Cameron Wilmer, Charlottesville
Do you want to be a leader for the Inclusion Project of tomorrow?