LENIKA RIVAS

Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
School: Brown University
Major: Environmental Studies and Latin American & Caribbean Studies

Lenika was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona with roots in Mexico, where both her parents immigrated from. Growing up in the beautiful desert of Arizona has instilled a passion for environmental justice, advocacy for legislation concerning our climate, and Latinx community empowerment.

Being the first in her family to attend college in the U.S., Lenika was able to find a community within Casa Machado, Brown’s cultural Spanish house, where she currently serves as an e-board chair member. On-campus, she also works with Brown’s Office of Sustainability leading projects focused on attaining carbon neutrality, diverting waste, and initiating sustainable programs. Lenika is also a proud member and leader of Latinas at Brown, the Outdoor Leadership Environmental Education Program, and Brown Immigrant Rights Coalition. Abroad, Lenika has taken courses aimed at understanding international relations and conflict resolution, studying the complex armed conflict, peace processes and the challenges of peacebuilding in Bogotá, Colombia

Lenika is currently a sophomore at Brown University double concentrating on Environmental Studies and Latin American & Caribbean Studies, interested in environmental policy and inequality. Upon completing her undergraduate degree, Lenika hopes to either attend law school or work within the government or non-profit sector, while advocating for environmental rights.

As a CHCI participant, Lenika hopes to expand her understanding of political advocacy, become more acquainted with the legislative process, and gain experience within her congressional intern position. She hopes to bring her newly acquired knowledge and experience back to her community in Arizona, Brown University, and beyond.