LaBraia Owens is an emerging leader in workforce development and systems change. Drawing from her lived experience, she is committed to ensuring that young people have access to the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed. As the youngest member of the team serving as Partnerships Coordinator at Texas Network of Youth Services (TNOYS), LaBraia leads youth engagement initiatives, conducts thematic analysis to elevate youth voice, and helps develop apprenticeship and workforce readiness opportunities for young people across Texas.
She also serves on the Youth Policy Team with A Way Home America, the Youth Action Board with the Texas Homeless Network, and the Houston-Galveston Area Council Youth Council in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission. LaBraia has testified on legislation affecting students experiencing homelessness and opportunity youth, partnering with national organizations, including the Aspen Institute, to advance systems change. Currently pursuing a double major in business computer information systems and economics, she combines her passion for advocacy with a focus on economic mobility and community development. Through storytelling and public speaking, LaBraia empowers others with lived experience to become advocates for change and create brighter futures for young people across Texas and beyond. She plans to continue advancing policies and programs that empower young people and create pathways to education, employment, and long-term success.