Youth Advisory Council2026-27 Cohort
11.10.26
Category: Prevention & Education, Uncategorized
Type: Blog
Introducing the 2026-27 cohort of the KCSARC Youth Advisory Council (YAC) — a group of teens from the King County area dedicated to preventing sexual violence.
We asked each member to share what inspired them to join YAC, along with a fun fact to help you get to know them better. Here’s what they had to say:
Emily, Sophomore at Juanita High School
“I joined the YAC to reduce the stigma surrounding sexual violence and encourage people to speak out about this topic. I’d like to create a safe space, especially for youth who may not feel comfortable sharing with people close to them, about their thoughts and opinions of sexual violence.”
Emma, Junior at Holy Names Academy
“I joined YAC because I want to help raise more awareness about sexual assault and make important resources more known and accessible to my community. A fun fact about me is that I love to sing, play the guitar and bake.”
Grace, Senior at Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences
“This is my second year on the YAC, and being on the council has helped fulfil my goals of educating students/teachers/parents about school/workplace sexual violence and collaborating with like-minded people. In my free time, I enjoy learning new languages and travelling to and exploring other countries.”
June, Junior at Hazen High School
“I chose to stay on the YAC because I enjoy being part of a community that cares so much about making a difference. I love being able to provide my voice and perspective on things, and I want to continue to learn from others, spread awareness and help my community.”
Kavya, Junior at Mercer Island High School
“I joined YAC because I believe sexual assault prevention starts with education and open conversations. Too often, students don’t know how to recognize warning signs, support others, or find resources. I want to help make these conversations more approachable and give young people the knowledge and confidence to speak up.”
Kenzie, Sophomore at Seattle Academy
“The YAC is a space for youth voices and for building community; I joined last year after seeing the impacts of sexual violence in both my life and other teens lives. Seeing this I felt that advocacy, specifically from teens and young adults, was necessary for meaningful change. A fun fact about me is I have done eight sports over the years and am currently a cheerleader!”
Mehr, Junior at Skyline High School
“I joined YAC because I’m passionate about improving healthcare equity and access to support, especially for young people. I’m excited to use my voice to advocate for youth, learn more about prevention and education, and contribute to projects that can create meaningful change in my community. A fun fact about me is I have over 250 rubber ducks that I’ve won from claw machines!”
Simone, Junior at Renton High School
“I joined KCSARC YAC to see destigmatized sexual violence within my community and empower my peers to educate themselves about prevention. I want everyone to know recovery is possible and resources are available no matter who you are.”
Sophia, Senior at Northwest School
“I joined the YAC because of the opportunity to become a stronger advocate for sexual violence prevention and a more informed peer and resource in my community. A fun fact about me is that I am a flute player in the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra!”