Elianna Peña
She/Her
13 Years in Care
Elianna Peña entered foster care just before her eighth birthday and has spent over 13 years navigating the system, experiencing multiple placements. Despite the instability, she has transformed her experiences into resilience, leadership, and advocacy.. She is currently participating in extended foster care under AB 12 and pursuing associate degrees in Sociology and Political Science at Long Beach City College, with plans to transfer to a four-year university.
Elianna began her advocacy journey at 14 with California Youth Connection (CYC), where she developed public speaking and policy skills, co-led campaigns, and influenced foster care policy. In 2025, she represented foster youth nationally through the Youth Congressional Liaison Program, meeting members of Congress, including Congressman Robert García, to advocate for stronger youth housing, education, and mental health resources.
Elianna interned with Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal, creating youth-focused content, and elevating community voices. She is also active with the Youth Leadership Institute and campus organizations, mentoring peers and organizing events that empower foster youth.
Elianna plans to transfer to a four-year university and pursue a career in law or public policy. She aspires to create programs, policies, and opportunities that uplift foster youth, turning her lived experiences into lasting impact.
