Brianna O’Neill Thomas Burton
She/Her
18 Years in Care
Brianna Thomas Burton didn’t have an easy start. Growing up in a tough environment, her childhood was shaped by deep emotional wounds, especially after losing her grandfather—the one person who showed her love. Entering foster care, Brianna faced further pain and invisibility. But rather than being broken by these experiences, she used them to fuel her passion for advocacy and leadership.
Brianna is an active voice in youth advocacy, speaking out for herself and others who haven’t found their voice yet. She mentors those aging out of foster care, offering guidance, sharing resources, and reminding them they’re not alone. Through her writing, Brianna shares her journey of trauma, growth, and resilience to help others heal.
Her future goal is to become a global educator, using her experiences to inspire young people who feel overlooked. Brianna aims to create opportunities for others like her, showing that with perseverance, anyone can build a future of purpose and stability.
