Julie Hilt is the founder of Alternative Restorative Communities (ARC), LLC, where she collaborates with community partners to create programs that work to address the racial and ethnic disparity in the juvenile justice system. Julie came to California from London, England. Her work is greatly influenced by research and methods that have been pioneered in the UK, bringing a more global perspective to juvenile justice.

Dr. Saki Cabrera, a first generation bi-cultural and bi-lingual Puerto Rican native of Bronx, New York, serves as tenured faculty in the departments of Psychology and Human Services & Social Work at Solano College, where she also coordinates the Wellness Center and the Human Services & Social Work program and served as the Accreditation Coordinator. A NIH and Kellogg scholar and previous Vice President of the National Organization of Human Services, Saki’s overall interests include behavioral health, evaluation research, program development (blending theory with practice), quality assurance, grant writing, and training.

As a Social Change Agent and Proximate Leader, I am a living example that change is possible. Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, his journey has taken him from foster care juvenile halls to prison. Robert is thankful for this second chance at a first class life. Through these lived experiences, Robert has developed a holistic approach and understands the power in healing and forgiveness. Through his restorative practices Robert is devoted to educating the youth through mentorship and creating curriculum challenging, encouraging and developing the cognitive thinking/skills by understanding the power of choices, has led to our destination is connected to our belief system.

Damon L. Cooke is a dedicated community leader and educator with over 30 years of experience working to bridge the gap between at-risk youth and the wider community. As the Director of Community Integration and Gang Education Consultant, Damon spearheads initiatives, programs and practical applications designed to reduce gang involvement by fostering understanding and collaboration between communities and law enforcement. His work involves designing and implementing educational programs that provide youth with opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and positive community engagement. Damon holds several certificates in Conflict Resolution, Restorative Justice, Trauma Informed, Substance Use Disorders, Domestic Violence which he leverages to mediate tensions and build partnerships that promote safety and inclusivity. After spending 31 years in California’s Toughest Prisons, Damon draws from personal experiences to connect authentically with young people, empowering them to make informed choices and lead fulfilling lives despite their condition. Through his intense gang curriculum, workshops, mentorship, and community outreach, he continues to make a lasting impact on communities globally.

Ethan has worked within the youth sector for more than 20 years, supporting the development of some of the UK’s leading youth charities. His unquestionable passion and dedication towards ensuring both children and young people live their best lives has impacted the trajectory of hundreds of people across the globe.

Ethan most recently co-founded Aspiring Heads, a multi-award winning social enterprise that challenges racial disparities within education in the UK. His work provides impactful and affordable leadership development for black educators, along with access to culturally competent networks that helps to elevate the next generation of black leaders.

Being highly skilled in management, mentoring, coaching, and fuelled with a passion to positively impact lives, he never fails to motivate and inspire others. Ethan is currently Managing Director at Aspiring Heads and is also the UK Operations Manager for ARC (Alternative Restorative Communities).

Jerry Elster was raised in South Central Los Angeles. He has dedicated his life’s work toward moving Restorative Justice from the margins to the center of social and criminal justice. Jerry's trials have taught him how essential it is for people (especially formerly incarcerated people) to speak and be heard in their own voices. He believes that people without a voice are people without hope. Jerry is a Ph.D. candidate in Forensic Psychology and is the Program Director at Alternative Restorative Communities.

With over 20 years of experience in church-led community transformation and mentoring, Rebecca has a passion to equip and inspire communities to pursue justice. With a heart for vulnerable and excluded young people, she has a particular vision for how peacebuilding and reconciliation can encourage a more inclusive and just society.

Sephton Henry is a Gangs Consultant who delivers training to government staff and law enforcement. Sephton uses his platform to speak to young people about the dangers of carrying weapons and gang violence. He is a sought after guest speaker who has been captivating, motivating and inspiring audiences that include members of the House of Parliament in London. He has been featured on numerous television and radio programs.

Reigh Ellis is an undergraduate with a Certification and Associates of Arts degree in Human Services and Social Work from Solano Community College pursuing further education in the Human Development field in order to be of service to people from various walks of life; with emphasis on youth and family. He is a people’s person with a diverse cultural background. Being from Vallejo California, raised in a multiethnic family assists his genuine empathy and ability to socialize with culturally diverse individuals creating positive and progressive relationships while building community in the process. At his core Reigh promotes wellness, insight development, healthy human interactions and empowering one another to pioneer the changes desired in life.