Who Are We?

Stack of folded newspapers on a wooden surface

YouthInk carries the mission of amplifying ambitious high school students voices that want to share international voices and projects with each other.

  • A young woman with long dark hair stands outside against a winter landscape with snow-covered trees and mountains in the background, smiling softly at the camera.

    Founder & Editor in Cheif

    Mariana Xerez is a high school senior living in Brazil, deeply passionate about environmental justice. She serves as the Communications Officer for her school's Sustainability Council and is an ambassador for the New England Aquarium's Climateens Program. By founding the YouthInk Initiative, she aims to empower other students to advocate for their passions and create a safe space for young activists worldwide.

  • Ella Yates

    Media Manager

    Ella Yates is a high school senior who grew up in North Carolina and now lives in Massachuttes. She is most interested in environmental causes, and spends her time aiding her community through UNICEF. Ella has been a part of fundraisers raising thousands of dollars. She loves to draw and is excited to utilize her artistic skills for Youthink.  

  • A young woman with long blonde hair smiling and resting her chin on her hands in a dimly lit indoor setting, likely a restaurant or bar, with people and a staircase visible in the background.

    Secretary

    Sophia Gottselig is a high school senior from Massachussets. In her free time she enjoys singing, serving as a member of her school's acapella group, and is actively involved in the Music and Media Club. Sophia believes communication, whether through singing or writing is important. She is excited to be a part of the Youthink leadership team and have an impact in her community!

  • A woman with glasses smiling near the water on a boat at dusk, with a city skyline and a bridge illuminated in the background.

    Managing Editor

    Chaivin Moon is a high school senior who grew up in South Korea and now lives in Massachusetts. She enjoys reading and writing and participates in her high school newspaper and a book club. She also loves spending her time children whether though coaching them swim or teaching them English or helping them learn how to write! She helps with Youthink Initiative's mission of strengthening student voices around the world.