Meet the Team – Program Assistant Maya Ryan

Maya Li

Maya Ryan is a graduate of California State University, Sacramento, with a bachelor’s in History and a master’s degree in Public History. She is a former small business owner, and we are thrilled to welcome her as our most recent California Foster Youth Initiative AmeriCorps Member.

Maya was born in Israel and moved to the United States in 1982, moving throughout the Bay Area and the Los Angeles area for many years. Maya became independent at age 17 and, ultimately, raised her daughter as a single mother.

Maya draws upon her own healing journey to empathetically connect with others. She is especially passionate about helping teens and young adults find their inner strength and success. This drew her to our program. She was part of Cohort 6 Mentor Training. After successful completion, she was even more invested in our mission and, after an exciting conversation, she was invited to apply for the AmeriCorps position. She became a welcomed addition to the team in December 2023.

When not working, Maya enjoys movement through Pilates and walking. She also finds joy in baking and cooking for her family.