Imelda Islas-Olivo is a Project Manager in the Housing and Economic Mobility team where she works to address challenges faced by foster youth and youth experiencing homelessness. Prior to this role, Imelda was the Interim Housing Solutions Analyst at the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office. As a part of Mayor Bass’s Housing Team, Imelda analyzed data and research to determine best practices and policies to manage the city’s interim housing portfolio and create solutions to the city’s interim housing needs. In addition, Imelda examined local, regional, and federal policies affecting the Los Angeles region to ensure safe, low-barrier, and supportive housing for persons experiencing homelessness.
As Latina in Los Angeles, Imelda’s family has struggled because of unemployment, underfunded schools, and lack of affordable housing. Imelda has made it her goal to use her education and experiential knowledge to be an empathetic advocate for disadvantaged communities.
Imelda received her Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Linguistics from UCLA in 2019 and her Master of Public Policy in 2023 from UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs. The focus of her coursework was on youth policy, social policy, and data analysis.
John Burton Advocates for Youth improves the quality of life for youth in California who have been in foster care or homeless by advocating for better laws, training communities to strengthen local practices and conducting research to inform policy solutions.
