What Drives Us
At the heart of our mission is the pursuit of liberation. We are dedicated to breaking free from oppressive systems, fostering autonomy, and empowering individuals and communities to thrive on their own terms. Liberation is not just a goal; it's the driving force behind every action we take.
We embrace the continuous journey of learning and unlearning. Recognizing that growth and progress require a willingness to challenge assumptions and adapt, we are committed to questioning norms, confronting biases, and evolving our perspectives.
(Un)learning is the ongoing process that opens the doors to greater understanding, helping us navigate the complexities of ourselves and the world around us.
Our strength lies in our interconnectedness with communities — both human and the broader ecosystem. We cherish the relationships we build with the people around us, as well as the animals, plants, and the Earth itself.
Through this connectedness, we draw inspiration and recognize the profound impact of collective action. Together, we harness the power of community to create positive change and shape a more harmonious world.
elita layà, phd
Visionary & Strategist
As a catalyst for transformative education, dr. elita layà (they/them) leverages their intersectional perspectives and transdisciplinary insights across the spheres of social justice, mental health, and education leadership. Their goal is to co-create life-affirming pedagogies and cultures of communal care, both within and beyond educational institutions.
Currently a visiting faculty member at Saint Mary's College of California, elita specializes in cultural psychology and counseling. Beyond academia, elita has engaged in a variety of k-12, post-secondary, and nonprofit leadership roles where they’ve worked alongside student activists to radically reimagine, harness communal strength, and reclaim liberatory minds, bodies, and futures.
elita is a neurodivergent Black, queer, and trans nonbinary person and first-generation student. They were born and raised on the unceded land of the Huichin-Ohlone people, colonially known as the East Bay Area of California, where they currently reside with their loving spouse and four cats.
elita holds a PhD in Education Leadership, an MA in Cultural Studies, and an MS in Counseling Psychology.
joey layà, MA
Technology & Design Engineer
joey is passionate about catalyzing social change at the intersections of creative expression, community connection, and technological innovation.
They are a neurodivergent Filipinx, queer, and trans nonbinary person and the loving spouse of elita.
joey holds an MA in Cultural Studies.
