Yesenia Anaya is a Communications Manager based in Austin, Texas, and a first-generation American whose father immigrated from El Salvador. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a focus on New Media Broadcasting from Grand Canyon University in 2024.
At age 12, Yesenia entered foster care in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a secluded and predominantly Caucasian region, an experience that profoundly shaped her commitment to equity and advocacy. She has served in national leadership roles, including on the LEx Powered Equity National Advisory Team, and previously consulted on research initiatives with AdoptUSKids through the University of Texas at Austin’s Steve Hicks School of Social Work.
A former participant in the docuseries Road Trip Nation (“Wide Open Range”), Yesenia is passionate about storytelling as a tool for systemic change. Her work centers on amplifying marginalized voices, particularly within the foster care community, where she has served as a FosterClub All-Star Intern and Program Job Coach. Through communications, advocacy, and lived experience, Yesenia works to ensure every voice is heard and valued.
