Conference and Training Coordinator

Hemal Sharifzada

916-651-6254
hemal@calyouthconn.org

Hemal Sharifzada is the Conference and Trainings Coordinator for California Youth Connection, a non-profit advocacy organization of current and former foster youth. CYC has had a successful, positive influence on providing foster youth with a voice and addressing the concerns that face them.

As the Conference & Trainings Coordinator, Hemal oversees two statewide conferences throughout the year, trains all new volunteers that are interested in becoming supporters, a member of the National Foster Care Coalition representing CYC, coordinates the development of new chapters, helps members prepare for presentations and workshops and various other duties.

Hemal was raised in the foster care system for 11 years. He was raised in over 30 different placements, including foster homes, group homes, children shelters, juvenile halls, and camps. Having this array of experience about the foster care system, he realizes the struggles youth face and is a strong advocate for foster youth. He has participated in the redesign of California’s foster care system by being a part of the Stakeholders group, a board member of a community based organization representing foster youth and immigration issues (Angels in Foster Care), and has given presentations at several conferences and events.

Currently, Hemal has graduated with this BA degree from the University of California at UC Davis. Hemal hopes to continue his work in the foster care system by advocating and being a voice for all foster youth.