The YAC (Youth Advisory Council) is a structured forum for solicitation of input regarding research priorities, protocol vetting, study implantation and discussion of research challenges for youths directly impacted by iTech studies. YAC meetings are also used as an opportunity for education, training and discussion of results and strategies for dissemination of research findings. YAC meetings are held once a month. The Adolescent Trials Network also has a national community advisory board, Youth Experts and Advocates for Health (ATN-YEAH).
YAC Goals
- Provide a thoughtful space for youth to voice their feedback and opinions on iTech research and initiatives
- Foster a constructive forum for youth to talk, brainstorm and collaborate on ideas that can better their peers
- Create a place where youths from across the country can openly and confidentially talk to one another about healthcare issues relevant to them including HIV, health, tech, entrepreneurship, research, passions
- Create a sense of community where youth from different areas around the country can come together and create a social bond over shared experiences.
YAC Members
Jamal Arrington
Jamal Arrington is an avid Ps4 video game player. He was a very successful NBA 2K gamer, but now he plays Destiny mostly. He's a writer/poet, currently working on his first play script and mapping out his first novel. It is his goal to be a New York Times bestseller, Tony Award winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient.
Alejandro (Alex) Fernandez
I am a graduate of the University of South Florida. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Public Health in August 2017. I enjoy painting ceramics and playing video games. I am a movie fanatic and I am always down for the movies and good food. Furthermore, my current aspiration is to try and obtain a Master of Science degree in public health in the field of Environment and Occupational Health. I am currently working as an admin staff member for the OSHA program in the state of Florida.
Kendrick Forte
Kendrick Forte, age 23, is an auditor for the State of North Carolina. He considers himself to be a fun and energetic person, filled of livliness and a passion for mentoring and helping others. Kendrick enjoys watching the news and Jeopardy, as well as dancing, specialty: vogue. Graduating from NC Central University, he wants to take him knowledge of accounting and auditing and teach upon retiring.
Xavier Ramos
Hello! I am Xavier. I live and grew up in Chicago, Illinois. I am a young professional trying to make my mark on the world. I currently work at Chase Bank as a teller in Woodridge, Illinois. I have always been actively engaged in my community so I figured YAC would be another great way to get out and help bring our community closer and more open-minded. My favorite hobby is volleyball and volunteering at my local YMCA.
