We are currently recruiting for our 2026-2027 ASAB cohort! Interested in joining?

Learn more!

Alumni & Student Advisory Board (ASAB)

Our Alumni & Student Advisory Board (ASAB) plays a vital role in guiding our mission and strengthening the impact of our work. As thought partners and leaders, members ensure that the voices, ideas, and needs of students and alumni are heard and included in decisions that shape Northwest Education Access’ work.

Participation on the board is also a meaningful opportunity for members to build their own personal and professional skills. From leadership development to collaboration, public speaking, and advocacy, members gain valuable experience that supports their growth. To honor their time, contributions, and expertise, all members receive a quarterly stipend for their participation.

ASAB training and development opportunities

  • Members learn about NWEdA’s programs, history, values, and the impact of our work in the community.

  • Members gain understanding of decision-making framework to build critical thinking, evaluate options, and make informed recommendations.

  • Members learn how to use free tools and strategies to stay organized, manage tasks, track commitments, and balance responsibilities.

  • Members learn professional communication skills, meeting etiquette, networking skills, and workplace expectations.

  • members build confidence, strengthen collaboration skills, and learn how to effectively lead and contribute as a team member.

  • Members learn how to use their experiences and perspectives to advocate for themselves, their peers, and their community.

  • Members gain skills to participate in staff and Board of Directors candidate interviews, including how to ask thoughtful questions and provide meaningful feedback.

meet our 2025-2026 Alumni and student advisory Board!

  • I’m Christian Magwengasa, a Business Management student at Bellevue College. I’m passionate about entrepreneurship, fitness, and leadership, with experience in operations and marketing. My goal is to build impactful businesses and inspire others to grow

  • I am an immigrant who left my family for the pursuit of education. Education is my strength, and it is what liberates me. I have many interests and hobbies but I appreciate a good day filled with painting and coloring, as well as doing crafts. I am hoping to become a neurosurgeon in the far future.

  • Hi!! My name is Isiah Gibson and I was born in Seattle, Washington. I am 21 years old and I currently attend Seattle Central College! I hope to get my associates degree in social work and transfer to the University of Washington. In my free time I love to spend time with my friends and family. Whether it is going to the movies or going to the park, quality time with my loved ones is something that means a lot to me! Some of my hobbies include reading, working out and I love watching films and tv shows!! An important goal for me while being apart of ASAB is being able to help my community and those around me. Mental health is something that is so personal and important to me, so finding ways to support and help others through hard times is something I value so much.

  • I was born and grew up in Kyiv, Ukraine, but relocated to the US in 2024. I study Computer Science and Linguistics in hopes of breaching the communication gap in today’s world and improving human-computer interaction.  In my free time I work with multiple volunteer organizations to help Ukrainian orphans study English with native speakers and open their doors to a bigger pool of opportunities. I also enjoy working with my hands in the local community garden and am an active participant in a sci-fi/fantasy book club. I am a dedicated volunteer who strives to share my passion through active community outreach, believing that “every person can make a difference, and every person should try!” (John F. Kennedy).

  • I’ve lived in many places across the nation. I like music, dance, singing, painting, and playing games like spades and solitaire. Some of my other interests include nutrition, sociology, and psychology.

  • Nathaniel Perry is currently pursuing a degree in Business at North Seattle College, with aspirations of venturing into entrepreneurial endeavors in the future. Alongside his academic work, Nathaniel has a passion for personal growth, often exploring ways to enhance both his business knowledge and physical well-being. In his free time, he enjoys going to the gym, reading, and cooking. As a proud member of the Alumni & Student Advisory Board at NWEdA, Nathaniel is eager to help foster a vibrant community of alumni and students. His goal is to contribute innovative ideas and support initiatives that build lasting connections. He believes that strong collaboration can create meaningful opportunities for everyone involved, and he is excited to make a positive impact during his time on the board.

  • My name is Zain Hassan Ibrahim, and I’m originally from Somalia. I came to the U.S. to build a better future for myself and my family. I’m currently pursuing an Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering at South Seattle College, where I’m passionate about learning how technology and design can improve lives. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, playing soccer, community involvement, and spending time with family. My goal is to become a mechanical engineer and eventually start a business that creates job opportunities for others

  • Hello! My name is Zara Holland. As a twenty year-old woman who became a teenage caregiver to her late, single parent almost overnight, I know the struggles of navigating young adult life (like education and college decisions) alongside care-taking, grief, lack of support and health issues. I graduated WAVA Virtual Academy in 2023 and ended up taking a couple gap years to continue care-giving for my parent. I'm now working towards a community health worker program at my local CC.
    I offer a trauma and grief-informed lens through my work, as well as a compassionate understanding for those dealing with health conditions themselves, as I know how the healthcare system can be, as well as society at large for those who are in unique and misunderstood situations. No one should be denied the resources and support they need to be able to thrive and reach their fullest potential. When I'm not offering my insights and developing my advocacy skills you can find me exploring in nature, reading, saving food recipes I may or may never make and petting more dogs than you can count!