Staff: Julia Magallanes (She/Her)

Julia Magallanes serves as a Professional Mentor with Friends of the Children, supporting youth and their families through long-term mentorship. Julia returned to her hometown community after completing her undergraduate studies with a strong commitment to giving back to the place that shaped her. She believes that every child deserves equitable access to opportunities and is especially driven to support youth as they navigate systemic barriers, helping them build confidence in their strengths and envision new possibilities for their futures.

Julia brings diverse experience working with high school students in a student-led outreach program focused on increasing access to higher education, as well as her role as a paraeducator supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs. Through these experiences, Julia has developed a compassionate, adaptable approach that centers each young person’s individuality and lived experience.

Julia earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Feminist Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Social Work to continue her commitment to justice-centered advocacy and to expand her impact in supporting marginalized youth and communities