Meet the people that make our mission into our reality—from our dedicated staff to our volunteer board of directors. Our Team Our Staff Directors The people leading the everyday operations of Our Time To Act. Nicole Lillie Executive Director Howard Truei Chief of Staff Masaki Mendoza Housing Justice Director Aarohan Hariharan Housing Justice Director Our Staff The people handling the everyday operations of Our Time To Act. Noah Gonzalez Housing Justice Organizer Jordan Koster Housing Justice Organizer Evan Hamadeh Housing Justice Organizer Ethan Leem Housing Justice Organizer Alondra Herrera Housing Justice Organizer Selena-Marie Espinoza CYAN Lead Organizer Board of Directors The governing body responsible for Our Time To Act's mission, priorities, long-term development, and finances. Aidan Lin-Tostado President UC San Diego alumn & former San Diego Youth Commissioner Ken Fesler Secretary Ray Lin Board Director Rachel Choy Vice President, Internal Affairs Oliver Lin Treasurer Abbey Reuter Vice President, External Affairs San Diego resident & UC San Diego alumn Anna Pierce Board Director Gabrielle Darisme Vice President, Governance Holly Harwood Board Director San Diego resident & UC San Diego masters student Learn More About Us Explore our mission, strategy, and values. Our story is one of purpose, passion, and a collective commitment to making a difference. ABOUT US OUR WORK

Nicole (she/her/hers) is a recent graduate of University of California, San Diego where she received her BA in Political Science - Public Law. Before joining Our Time To Act, Nicole was heavily involved in community service work as well as voter registration and education efforts. She led her high school's Rotary Interact Club, establishing lasting bylaws and garnering over 70 regular volunteers over 3 years. In 2019 and 2020 she led [pre-]voter registration drives, [pre-]registering over 300 high school students. In July 2022, they joined Our Time To Act as our Youth Voter Engagement Director, and in January 2023 became the Director of Housing Justice. Nicole now serves as Our Time To Act's Executive Director. In 2023, Nicole was honored by the OTTA team as Staff of the Year. They were also previously awarded 2022 Passionate Leader of the Year. Nicole believes the current state of housing in San Diego is unacceptable and that youth have the power to change it. She is passionate about organizing her peers to take transformative action toward housing justice. The housing crisis is an intersectional issue and solutions must be informed by those disproportionately impacted by it. Housing may be a complicated topic, but youth have an unmatched capacity for learning. In order for youth to play this critical role in shaping the future of their communities, they must have access to the institutional knowledge, resources, and skills to claim and wield their power together. Nicole is honored to work alongside San Diego's powerful youth community to practice a better future in the present. < Back Nicole Lillie Executive Director Nicole (she/her/hers) is a recent graduate of University of California, San Diego where she received her BA in Political Science - Public Law. Before joining Our Time To Act, Nicole was heavily involved in community service work as well as voter registration and education efforts. She led her high school's Rotary Interact Club, establishing lasting bylaws and garnering over 70 regular volunteers over 3 years. In 2019 and 2020 she led [pre-]voter registration drives, [pre-]registering over 300 high school students. In July 2022, they joined Our Time To Act as our Youth Voter Engagement Director, and in January 2023 became the Director of Housing Justice. Nicole now serves as Our Time To Act's Executive Director. In 2023, Nicole was honored by the OTTA team as Staff of the Year. They were also previously awarded 2022 Passionate Leader of the Year. Nicole believes the current state of housing in San Diego is unacceptable and that youth have the power to change it. She is passionate about organizing her peers to take transformative action toward housing justice. The housing crisis is an intersectional issue and solutions must be informed by those disproportionately impacted by it. Housing may be a complicated topic, but youth have an unmatched capacity for learning. In order for youth to play this critical role in shaping the future of their communities, they must have access to the institutional knowledge, resources, and skills to claim and wield their power together. Nicole is honored to work alongside San Diego's powerful youth community to practice a better future in the present. nicole.lillie@ourtimetoact.org

< Back to Open Positions Financial Analyst Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY 8/7/24 - 2/7/25 ABOUT THE ROLE Job Summary: Financial Analysts at OTTA will build the skills necessary to learn how to budget and forecast with $200k+ funding, utilize Excel to break down expenses and funding sources, and understand how finances work at a nonprofit organization. Financial Analysts will directly support the Director of Finance and Budgeting and will be able to work with other OTTA members across different departments. Job Details: Attend weekly working and check-in meetings with the Executive Director and Director of Finance and Budgeting Facilitate fund requests and allocate funding to different departments Review and maintain compliance with laws and financial regulations Use excel to model budgets and forecast funding for future years Attend all additional meetings and events determined mandatory by your project team. Attend all relevant meetings and events for Our Time To Act as determined by your director and/or the Office of the Executive Director. Bring your full self and your passion to your work, and actively contribute to the finances of Our Time To Act team with genuine passion. Hours Per Week: Approximately 5-10 hours per week. These hours are mostly flexible except for required weekly meetings. During specific campaigns or running up to events, hours may increase and become less flexible. You are not expected to work late hours, and some weekends may be required, especially for some events. Meetings usually take place from 5pm - 8pm on weekdays. REQUIREMENTS Required Qualifications: Youth, 15 - 24 years old Existing knowledge of how to use Google Drive applications (Gmail, Docs, Forms, Calendar, Slides, Sheets, etc.). Google Drive applications are used frequently. Basic knowledge of Slack, the communications platform. Attention to detail and deadlines. Ability to communicate well with others, including fellow team members. Ability to work successfully with a team. Ability to communicate feedback effectively and with care. Ability to be flexible and adaptable to evolving situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to problem-solve quickly when issues arise. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Our Time To Act is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Our Time To Act values authenticity and passion. We play the role of coalition builders and mentors within our communities, sharing knowledge, resources, credit, and impact. And as a justice-oriented, impact-driven, and people-centered organization, our perspective grounds us with who we serve and the work we do while advancing our mission. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Here are some things to keep in mind: Our team values flexibility and taking initiative over structure and top-down delegation. This philosophy is not a good fit for all, so we want to be clear upfront. If you thrive in dynamic, open environments, this is the place for you. We value meaningful impact and support. We seek to authentically serve both our audience and our team members alike. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization are growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve, at all levels of our organization! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow us to be an effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. We prefer personability over professionalism, at least in internal settings. APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of Logistics Volunteer South Bay Area APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Logistics works behind the scenes to coordinate our organization's events and functions. They oversee the full preparations for events, finalizing a budget, locating the proper venue, coordinating personnel, and more with the help of Logistics Event Coordinators. REQUIREMENTS Prior relevant experience preferred. Demonstrates ability to think ahead, predict, and plan appropriately. Exemplifies strong leadership qualities. High school student or beyond. 8-10 hours, 2-3 meetings a week. Our scheduling is highly flexible. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Press Intern Intern (Volunteer) California and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before May 31st. ABOUT THE ROLE We seek a driven and enthusiastic Press Intern to join our Communications team. In this role, you will be responsible for crafting compelling and engaging content across various digital platforms. You will play a crucial role in effectively communicating our brand's message to our target audience. This is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience and mentorship. Position responsibilities: Produce high-quality written content for email campaigns pages, ensuring accurate and error-free content Develop engaging and informative blog posts that cover relevant topics, industry trends, and company news Write compelling content for various website pages, including landing pages and project descriptions Conduct thorough research on assigned topics, gather information from reliable sources, and conduct interviews to enhance the quality and depth of content Review and edit content for clarity, grammar, style, and consistency, ensuring a high standard of quality before publication Collaborate with the Communications Department to align content strategies and support promotional campaigns effectively Further duties as assigned REQUIREMENTS Requirements: Excellent Writing Skills - Proficient in crafting clear, concise, and engaging content with impeccable grammar, punctuation, and style Research Skills - Ability to conduct thorough research and gather information from credible sources, ensuring accuracy and relevance in content creation Attention to Detail - Meticulous approach to proofreading and editing, with a sharp eye for identifying errors and inconsistencies Time Management - Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively Collaboration and Communication - Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a team, communicate ideas clearly, and accept constructive feedback Preferred Requirements: Enrolled in a Journalism, Communications, English, or related field of study What We Offer: The Press Intern’s main focus will be learning and applying the trade in a professional setting. Learn or gain experience on Mail Chimp Learn about the ins and outs of SEO and optimize high open and click-through rates for webpages and blogs Write strong content pieces to add to your portfolio Attend professional development workshops Gain experience working in nonprofit organization that works hard and laughs hard Hourly Commitment: 4-8 hours per week, with flexible start and end times to fit your schedule If you are passionate about writing and have a desire to learn and grow, we encourage you to apply! ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION OTTA United is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. OTTA United values authenticity and passion. We play the role of coalition builders and mentors within our communities, sharing knowledge, resources, credit, and impact. And as a justice-oriented, impact-driven, and people-centered organization, our perspective grounds us with who we serve and the work we do while advancing our mission. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Here are some things to keep in mind: Our team values flexibility and taking initiative over structure and top-down delegation. This philosophy is not a good fit for all, so we want to be clear upfront. If you thrive in dynamic, open environments, this is the place for you. We value meaningful impact and support. We seek to authentically serve both our audience and our team members alike. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization are growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve, at all levels of our organization! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow us to be an effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. We prefer personability over professionalism, at least in internal settings. APPLY

Nicholas (Nic) Tappin (he/him) is a Political Science student at the University of California San Diego. He has been a San Diego native his entire life, where in his free time he serves as the Legislative Director for the University of California San Diego Associated Students Office of External Affairs. He also serves as a dedicated Board Member of the UC Student Association and as the Vice President of External Relations of the Pre-Law Coalition of UC San Diego. Nicholas has lobbied members of Congress and California state legislators on bills directly impacting students' housing, higher education accessibility, and food insecurity. Nicholas officially joined Our Time To Act in January of 2024 as the Policy and Coalition Representative. Outside of Our Time To Act, academics, and student government, Nicholas enjoys trying new restaurants and hanging out with friends. < Back Nicholas Tappin Policy & Coalition Representative Nicholas (Nic) Tappin (he/him) is a Political Science student at the University of California San Diego. He has been a San Diego native his entire life, where in his free time he serves as the Legislative Director for the University of California San Diego Associated Students Office of External Affairs. He also serves as a dedicated Board Member of the UC Student Association and as the Vice President of External Relations of the Pre-Law Coalition of UC San Diego. Nicholas has lobbied members of Congress and California state legislators on bills directly impacting students' housing, higher education accessibility, and food insecurity. Nicholas officially joined Our Time To Act in January of 2024 as the Policy and Coalition Representative. Outside of Our Time To Act, academics, and student government, Nicholas enjoys trying new restaurants and hanging out with friends. nicholas.tappin@ourtimetoact.org

Isaac Suarez (they/them) is pursuing a Communications Major at Grossmont College. Before joining Our Time To Act, Isaac was a Youth Leader with Live Well San Diego. They hosted and organized a Youth-Led Town Hall on mental health/substance misuse in collaboration with SAY San Diego and Project A.W.A.R.E. They joined OTTA United in July of 2023 as our Marketing Intern. Working with powerful youth alike, Isaac is dedicated to being a coalition builder for youth by creating inclusive spaces for youth to engage, collaborate and unite. < Back Isaac Suarez Marketing & Event Specialist Isaac Suarez (they/them) is pursuing a Communications Major at Grossmont College. Before joining Our Time To Act, Isaac was a Youth Leader with Live Well San Diego. They hosted and organized a Youth-Led Town Hall on mental health/substance misuse in collaboration with SAY San Diego and Project A.W.A.R.E. They joined OTTA United in July of 2023 as our Marketing Intern. Working with powerful youth alike, Isaac is dedicated to being a coalition builder for youth by creating inclusive spaces for youth to engage, collaborate and unite. isaac.suarez@ourtimetoact.org

Selena-Marie Espinoza (she/her) is a dedicated San Diegan and Global Health major from the University of California - San Diego, committed to fostering healthier, more inclusive communities. Guided by the principle to “leave things better than how they were found,” she serves as Lead Organizer for Civic Youth Action Engagement, where she spearheads a campaign against price gouging to support low-income families and vulnerable communities. Passionate about building lasting change, Selena-Marie believes that vibrant, resilient communities aren’t just created—they are cultivated through intentional advocacy and care. With aspirations to advance her impact as a public health researcher and advocate, she is focused on achieving health equity as a reality for all. In her free time, she enjoys connecting with family and friends, always drawing inspiration from her San Diego roots. < Back Selena-Marie Espinoza CYAN Lead Organizer Selena-Marie Espinoza (she/her) is a dedicated San Diegan and Global Health major from the University of California - San Diego, committed to fostering healthier, more inclusive communities. Guided by the principle to “leave things better than how they were found,” she serves as Lead Organizer for Civic Youth Action Engagement, where she spearheads a campaign against price gouging to support low-income families and vulnerable communities. Passionate about building lasting change, Selena-Marie believes that vibrant, resilient communities aren’t just created—they are cultivated through intentional advocacy and care. With aspirations to advance her impact as a public health researcher and advocate, she is focused on achieving health equity as a reality for all. In her free time, she enjoys connecting with family and friends, always drawing inspiration from her San Diego roots. selena.espinoza@ourtimetoact.org

Ria Maheshwari is a high school senior. Before becoming the Vice President of Our Time To Act, she served as the Outreach Specialist and within the Department of External Operations. As an aspiring lawyer, Ria combines her ambitions of argumentation and social justice as the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Captain and Board Member for the Speech and Debate Club at her high school and by being part of several community service clubs, such as the National Honor Society. Sports being a key passion of her life, you can always find Ria being active. For example, she travels across the United States to play competitive volleyball with her teammates at Mountain View Volleyball Club. < Back Ria Maheshwari Vice President Ria Maheshwari is a high school senior. Before becoming the Vice President of Our Time To Act, she served as the Outreach Specialist and within the Department of External Operations. As an aspiring lawyer, Ria combines her ambitions of argumentation and social justice as the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Captain and Board Member for the Speech and Debate Club at her high school and by being part of several community service clubs, such as the National Honor Society. Sports being a key passion of her life, you can always find Ria being active. For example, she travels across the United States to play competitive volleyball with her teammates at Mountain View Volleyball Club. ria.maheshwari@ourtimetoact.org

< Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of Research Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Research works to further our organization's scientific understanding of youth empowerment and development. By proposing and answering applicable and tangible research questions, Our Time to Act United can improve our approach, methodology, and actions to further our impact on youth. REQUIREMENTS Prior academic experience required. Preferred in the fields of psychology, sociology, education, political science, or related subjects. Demonstrates ability to identify research questions and strong project management. Undergraduate or beyond. Exceptions for exceptional candidates can be made. Highly flexible hours. Meetings dependent on research schedule. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

< Back Andrew Park Core Staff andrew.park@ourtimetoact.org

< Back Aidan Lin, Executive Director, awarded "Bridge Builder of the Year" for API Heritage Month Thursday, May 19, 2022 Our Time to Act United On May 19th, 2022, Aidan Lin was awarded the "2022 Bridge Builder of the Year Award" at the Asian Pacific Islander Leaders of the Year Awards hosted by the San Diego Business Journal and Asian Business Association San Diego . Aidan was recognized for his work with Our Time to Act (OTTA) United in his capacity as Executive Director for his leadership during the City of San Diego's 2020-21 redistricting process, during which OTTA United partnered with dozens of community-based organizations to push for equitable representation for the Asian, Latine, Black, and youth communities of San Diego. OTTA United is honored to have its principal leader recognized for his work in the community—particularly as a force for coalition-building and intersectional collaboration. As we celebrate Asian Heritage Month, we are proud of Aidan's accomplishments and the invaluable relationships we have built with San Diego's API community. Next Previous