About Us

Co-founder, President, Social Media Manager, and Website master

Hello Everyone! My name is Alexia Shafran, and I’m a high in high school from Los Angles, California. I got interested in law through participating in Mock Trial competitions, and Model UN which gave me new knowledge on not only different legal fields but also how much law plays into our lives! Through those clubs, I involved myself into different opportunities to fully immerse my self into the legal field and learn more about it from a professional level! Law is a very important concept, and so I hope youth are educated on this field, especially with the rise of advocacy and activism within the U.S!

Co-founder, Director of International Outreach

Hi everyone! My name is Jane Bailey and I’m a high school senior from San Antonio, Texas. I first got into law through Congressional debate and Model United Nations at my high school. They helped me learn about not only US law but international law as well.

Newsletter Director and Social Media Lead

I'm Isabella “Bella” Borras, and I will be the newsletter director for the committee board! I began volunteering at YLI in August of 2023, and I have been writing articles on law and politics for the organization ever since. I‘ll be working with Mimi to curate a newsletter, as well as contributing with the rest of the members to further elevate this organization.

International Seminar Host, International Outreach Officer 

Hello everyone! My name is Sangeun Park, but you can call me Sang. I’m a third culture Korean student who has lived in Vietnam my whole life! I’ve also attended an international school my entire life, which has made me open to new cultures and passionate about meeting new people from various backgrounds. To give a short introduction about me, I’ve been debating in Public Forum, and last year, I was thrilled to qualify for the Nationals tournament. In addition to debate, I love reading and playing soccer. My interest in law has always been a big part of who I am–I enjoy participating in mock trials, reading legal articles, and exploring different governmental structures and politics. I’m really excited to be working with such a vibrant law community! 

Director of Video Filming

Hello everyone! My name is Elena. I am a senior in high school from a small town in Florida. I have always enjoyed law, particularly sports and corporate law, and aim to one day become an attorney in one of these sectors. In my free time, I enjoy reading fantasy books and spending time with animals. I have my own pet sitting business and get to care for dogs, cats, frogs, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, and other animals! I enjoy being a part of the Youth Law Institute because it allows me to connect with other people my age who share my interests.

Editor in Chief

Hello! I’m Claire, a 16-year-old IB student from Singapore with a deep love for philosophy, writing, and the serenity of late-night walks. Often, you'll find me listening to Lana Del Rey and Mazzy Star. My interest in law grew as I began to understand the importance of rational thinking and the need to separate emotion from logic when facing significant issues. For me, law is where legality and morality converge, ensuring that everyone has the right to defend themselves and be fully informed—as behind every action, there lies a reason.

Director of Fundraising

Hi! I’m Tomer, and I am from California, United States. I serve as the Director of Fundraising at the Youth Law Institute and am very excited to be a part of this incredible team! I have always been very immersed within the law, as I am a big fan of politics and everything legal. I hope to attend law school and become a Corporate Lawyer in the future, as I enjoy the intersection between business and law. 

Assistant Editor in Chief

Hi guys! My name is Janani Janakiraman, and I’m a sophomore in high school in the Bay Area. My parents are immigrants from India, but I was born in the U.S. I’ve always had a passion for making the world a better place, which is why I’ve created 2 of my own non profits. I’ve been interested in the law for a really long time, partly because of my experience on the debate team and mock trial. I’m a leader on my high school’s Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate Team, and I’ve advanced to semifinals at Silicon Valley tournaments and even made it to elim rounds at the Cal UC Berkeley and National Quals tournaments! Because I’m passionate about the law and also want to make the world a better place, I love working with the Youth Law Institute, as I feel my interests intersect at the heart of the organization’s mission.

Assistant Secretary

My name is Luna Saldana Lopez, and I am passionate about social justice, law, and policy reform. I am committed to driving meaningful change and advocating for important causes. My goal is to become a lawyer and work tirelessly to advance radical policies that address urgent social issues. But I also like simple things like reading with a cup of tea and comfy oversized sweaters. I am excited to work with you all and accomplish great things!