Meet Our Youth Advisory Council Members

Emma is a skilled trade student from Southern Illinois, working toward her goal of becoming a Nuclear Medicine Specialist. Her passion for healthcare stems from both her hands-on experience caring for family members with disabilities and managing her own medical challenges. These experiences have given her a deep understanding of the barriers individuals face in medical settings and a strong commitment to improving accessibility and support.

Emma has been actively involved in her community, volunteering for story time at the public library and assisting with a K-12 afterschool program at a local church. Her dedication to advocacy led her to join the Youth Advisory Council, where she hopes to amplify the voices of disabled youth and families. Through her work with YAC, she strives to create more inclusive and accessible spaces where individuals with disabilities can thrive.

Outside of her studies and advocacy, Emma is a musician who’s performed in cities across the country, including New Orleans, Minneapolis, Denver, Indianapolis, and Mattoon. She also has a keen interest in phytotherapy, herbology and apothecary, continuously expanding her knowledge in these areas.

Estrella is a college student from the Chicagoland area, currently participating in a transitional program to further her education and independence. Passionate about advocacy, she hopes to build a future where every person (especially those with disabilities) feels empowered to use their voice and pursue their dreams.

Throughout high school, Estrella took on leadership roles, serving on the student council for several years and honing her skills as a leader. Her lived experience with cerebral palsy, diagnosed at age 2 after being born six months premature, has shaped her perspective and fueled her commitment to disability advocacy.

Estrella joined the Youth Advisory Council to help amplify the voices of disabled youth and ensure that others recognize their potential. She firmly believes that while having a disability comes with challenges, it should never limit a person’s ability to achieve their goals.

In her free time, Estrella loves to travel and Utah is one of her favorite destinations!

Hayden is a college student from Northern Illinois, currently completing two years at a community college before transferring to a four-year university. Passionate about accessibility and advocacy, Hayden has firsthand experience pushing for necessary changes in their high school, where a lack of accessibility made daily life (and even emergency preparedness) difficult for students with disabilities.

Hayden’s persistence in ensuring evacuation plans and accessible routes were put in place highlights their commitment to making environments more inclusive.

Hayden joined the Youth Advisory Council to connect with others who have disabilities and work together to address the challenges they face. Having lived with spina bifida and hydrocephalus since birth, Hayden has experienced significant medical hurdles, particularly in navigating a healthcare system that doesn’t always listen to patients’ needs. Through YAC, Hayden hopes to raise awareness and advocate for systemic improvements.

Outside of advocacy, Hayden is passionate about music and video editing. Hayden dreams to one day create their own music and travel the world, turning their creativity into something that can inspire others.

Mairead is a college student from Northern Illinois, currently participating in a transitional program to further her education and independence. She is passionate about learning more about animation and enjoys expressing herself through drawing.

A dedicated advocate for inclusion, Mairead has been actively involved in Buddy Sports and the Special Olympics. She also volunteers her time through BraveHearts Healing Horsemanship program and therapeutic recreation through her local park district. Her experiences as a DSCC participant and individual with special needs have fueled her desire to help others see that people with disabilities can accomplish incredible things.

Mairead joined the Youth Advisory Council to support and uplift others in the disability community, using her voice to advocate for inclusion and accessibility. She loves helping her peers and hopes to make a meaningful impact through her work.

In her free time, Mairead enjoys drawing, exploring animation, and all things “My Little Pony!”

Zoe is a college student from Northeastern Illinois with a passion for advocacy and the medical field. She plans to attend college to become a nurse or child life specialist, using her experiences to help others navigate the healthcare system with compassion and understanding.

As someone with Kniest dysplasia and hearing loss, Zoe has faced both physical and social challenges, particularly in environments that lack awareness and accessibility. Through her experience in preparing to transition from high school, she has gained firsthand knowledge of Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, financial services and programs designed to support students with disabilities. She is dedicated to ensuring that others have access to resources that help them pursue jobs, education and independent living in an inclusive and supportive way.

Zoe joined the Youth Advisory Council to connect with others who share similar experiences and to help bridge the gap between youth with disabilities and the broader community. She believes that by fostering conversations and increasing awareness, society can take meaningful steps toward greater inclusivity.

A fierce advocate for disability rights, Zoe credits her brave mother for teaching her how to stand up for herself and fight for her needs. She considers herself a warrior: resilient, adaptable, and determined to break down barriers. Fluent in Spanish, English, and American Sign Language, she hopes to use her voice to make Illinois a more accessible place for all.