Leslie’s journey in advocacy began as a Youth Food Advocate Member with Community Food Advocates, where they contributed to a project focused on improving New York City cafeterias. At El Puente, Leslie actively participated in "¡Nuestro aire!" a grassroots campaign addressing the toxic air quality in Williamsburg. Their involvement in these campaigns has highlighted the significance of policy in effecting positive change and the need for fairer policies.

Leslie is a recent graduate of the CUNY Food Justice Leadership Fellowship, a highly competitive program at the CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute, where they are dedicated to helping individuals become better leaders for food equity by continually exploring various community-based food initiatives. As part of that program, we welcomed Leslie as our intern Fall-Winter 2023.

Leslie is a sophomore at Hunter College, majoring in Urban Studies and minoring in Public Policy.