Our Alumni Advisory Board plays an important role in keeping our programs connected to the young people we serve. Our alumni have experienced Hack the Hood firsthand, so they understand what worked well, what could be improved, and what cohorts need to take their next step into tech. Their perspective helps us build programs that are grounded in real experience.
This year, six alumni from programs spanning 2018 to 2025 are joining the board. Together, they will advise on program design, help strengthen our alumni network, and work to ensure that future participants receive the same support and sense of community that they did.
Kamea is a 22-year-old first-generation Black and Filipina leader who has taken part in many Hack the Hood programs since 2018. As Steward of YouAspireSuccess, she leads community-centered initiatives focused on women's empowerment. She is also an advocate with the California Alliance for Youth and Community Justice (CAYCJ), where she works to advance public health and community-driven approaches. Kamea is committed to alumni leadership and to making tech education accessible so that the next generation can build and lead in the industry.He also reflected on the broader support available through the program:
Jeremy is one of the co-founders of Oasis Oakland, the team that won Hack the Town 2025. He is a STEM advocate for people who want to break into tech and create meaningful change in their communities. As a board member, Jeremy is focused on helping shape decisions that will improve the program experience for future participants.
Sandy is a community college student who is studying Business Administration and preparing to transfer to a four-year university. She has gained experience across the nonprofit, private, and public sectors, including work with the San Francisco Mayor's Office. Sandy wants to bring an alumni perspective to the board, connect with fellow alumni, and help build resources that continue to support participants after they finish the program.
Thomas is a fourth-year Electrical Engineering student at UC Riverside who is working toward a career in the industrial workforce. He serves as a Community Advisor for UCR's North District, where he supports a floor of about 70 residents, and he also sits on UCR's 3E Study Advisory Board. Thomas is an alum of our Summer 2024 Hustle program, which was his first introduction to tech. He joined the board to give back to the program and to help future participants find the same community and sense of possibility that he did.
Joi has been part of the Hack the Hood community since 2018, and she credits the program with giving her practical tools and a strong network in tech. She is currently starting a faith-based business while continuing her job search. Joi believes in what Hack the Hood can do for young people, especially those in Black and Brown communities, and she wants to help more young people who look like her see themselves in tech.
Sarah took part in our Drive program in the fall of 2024. She is now a Computer Science and Engineering student at UCLA, where she conducts research in computer networking. Sarah says that Hack the Hood played a key role in growing her interest in computer science during high school by giving her the resources and opportunities she needed to succeed.
