Find A Youth Mentor

My name is Nicole, I’m 25 years old from southern California and I’ve had alopecia since I was 9 months old. My hair has ranged from completely bald to having a good amount of hair so I’ve experienced the full range of alopecia. Alopecia has been such an integral part of my identity and gives me a unique perspective in life. Outside of grad school I’m training for a marathon, love to dog walk, watch movies, hang with friends and listen to music ◡̈ I’m also learning to knit and am a croissant addict!

Hi, I’m Bri! I’m 20 and go to the University of Miami studying artist development and music business while being pre med. I also am in the process of getting my real estate license. I have had Alopecia for about 15 years and have dealt with the entire range of hair loss. In middle school I rocked a bald head and, as I got older, experimented with new ways to build my confidence and style. I have had periods where my hair has grown back completely and, as it fell out again, transitioned from extensions to wigs. It has shaped me in becoming confident and secure with myself no matter what. Throughout my journey, I found that there was a lack of community, which left me with no knowledge or guidance and a lot of experimenting by myself. I’ve had to learn tips and tricks that have helped me deal with Alopecia and keep myself healthy and on the path to hair growth. I’ve tried everything from injections, topical treatments, red light, and teas and supplements. When I discovered NAAF, I was eager to become part of it and give kids what I was searching for when I was young and dealing with Alopecia, a friend who they could relate to and learn from. I have 5 younger siblings ranging from ages 1-14 and am able to connect with children well. In my free time, I like to travel, put outfits together, write music, teach voice and piano lessons, be outside, and experience new things with people I love. I’d love the opportunity to get to know you and become friends :)

Hi, I’m Anshini! I am a freshman at the University of the Pacific majoring in Biology and pursuing the accelerated pre-dental track. I grew up in Northern California. I enjoy drawing, visiting theme parks (Disney!), playing tennis/pickleball/ping pong (I love racquet sports), and dancing in my free time. During school, I was on the tennis team and played the flute/piccolo in the marching band. I’ve faced undiagnosed hair loss since I was 11 and was diagnosed with alopecia areata when I was 14 years old. I struggled with extensive diffused hair loss as well. Over the past years, my hair has gone through many stages of regrowth and relapse. Currently, I have regrown my hair but alopecia has been a constant struggle, especially through middle school. I spent a lot of my time staying active through tennis and dance as an outlet whenever I was down. It helped me accept myself as who I was instead of shying away from the public. I have truly learned a lot about myself and would like to think that I am confident in my skin. I still have bad days like anyone else but with the support of my friends and family, I have become comfortable in myself. I’m excited to share my experiences, meet you, and help you with your journey just as my peers helped me!

Hi, I’m Kelsey! I’m a junior at Saint Rose High School, and I grew up in different parts of New Jersey. I currently live in a tiny beach town called Mantoloking. I was diagnosed with alopecia at the age of 2, and my granda, uncle, and dad all have it as well. I am a triplet, but I’m the only only with alopecia. My journey with alopecia has been a rollercoaster. In 8th grade, I lost all the hair on my entire head. Over the years, my hair has grown back, fallen out again, and regrown several times. Since February, I’ve been taking the new FDA-approved medication, Litfulo. Support has been crucial throughout my life! At first, I tried to hide my hair loss, but with support, I’ve learned to embrace it, as it is what makes me, me! It’s important to have someone to turn to, and I want to be that person for others, offering hope to kids facing their own challenges! I’m passionate about helping others accept their alopecia and advocating for coverage of medication/wigs, as having options is essential. I have a lot of experience with wigs, fake eyelashes, and eyebrows, and I'm happy to offer help! My hobbies include babysitting, playing lacrosse, cheerleading, tennis, going to the beach, watching sunsets, baking, spending time with friends/family, shopping, crafting, traveling, and volunteering! I hope to bring smiles and laughter through my role as a mentor!

Ever since my alopecia journey began, I've encountered numerous challenges that have profoundly shaped my character and perspective on life. Diagnosed at a young age, the sudden and unpredictable hair loss brought about waves of insecurity and self-doubt. Navigating school and social interactions became a daily struggle as I contended with the physical and emotional toll of alopecia. Over time, I learned to embrace my unique appearance, fostering a sense of self-love and resilience. My determination to thrive despite these challenges empowered me to transform adversity into a source of strength. Inspired by my experiences, I sought to support others facing similar challenges. This led me to become a youth mentor, dedicated to guiding and empowering young individuals on their alopecia journeys. As a mentor, I want to share my story of overcoming insecurities, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and inner strength. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where mentees feel understood and encouraged. Through this role, I've want the privilege of witnessing the profound impact that empathy and shared experiences can have. Supporting another person through their alopecia journey has reinforced my belief in the power of community and connection. By offering guidance and reassurance, I hope to inspire confidence and resilience in those I mentor, helping them navigate their paths with courage and optimism. Together, let's transform our shared struggles into a source of empowerment, embracing our uniqueness and celebrating our strength.

Hello! I am Veda. Im a student at UC Berkeley studying Public Health and Ethnic Studies. I was diagnosed with Alopecia Universalis when I was about 8 years old and have been living with it ever since. I have experienced the most hair loss on my eyebrows and head. I recently lost all my hair in my first semester at Cal. Alopecia is a constant struggle and has impacted the way I view myself. My interests include makeup, fashion, tv shows, crocheting, and anything creative. Growing up, having a proper community around me helped me deal with my Alopecia, and I wish to be that support for others!

Hello! My name is CJ Moore and I am Junior at Westwood High School in Mesa, Arizona. At school, I’m the team captain of the varsity basketball team, the President of IB Mentors (mentorship club for incoming honors underclassmen) and heavily involved in various other clubs. I was diagnosed with Alopecia Areata when I was 8 years old and became mostly bald for about the next 5 years going into COVID, then beginning to grow most of the hair back to what I have now. It was very overwhelming at times to always stand out in such a different way, but I was always able to find solace in some of my favorite hobbies like playing basketball, listening to music and watching movies. Through balancing honors classes, extracurriculars, and now a job, I’ve realized how important it is to have a support system around you to help you grow and succeed in what you’re passionate about, and I want to be there for you every step of the way. I’m so excited to be a part of your journey, and I hope hearing mine can help you in yours :)

Hi, I’m Anjali! I am a junior at the New York Institute of Technology majoring in biology and pursuing a pre-med track. I grew up in Montville, NJ. I was diagnosed with alopecia areata when I was 16 years old and suffered extensive hair loss, eventually leaving me bald in my junior year of high school. Over the past few years, I have regrown my hair, relapsed, and then regrew my hair again. Alopecia areata is such a difficult disease to grapple with, especially without support, which is why I am excited to help others who are in similar situations as mine. I am passionate about researching pediatric brain tumors in laboratory settings, as well as advocating for mental health awareness particularly in healthcare settings and on college campuses. Outside of school, I enjoy keeping up with pop culture, gluten-free cooking, watching my favorite shows, and spending time with friends, family, and my labradoodle. I learned a lot through my journey with alopecia, and can’t wait to help you on yours!

Hey, my name is Ziad! I am a freshman majoring in neuroscience at Adelphi University. I was diagnosed with alopecia areata when I was 15 years old, and a year later, I was diagnosed with alopecia universalis. Since then, I have been blessed with the opportunity to truly learn more about myself and who I aspire to become. Although having alopecia certainly comes with its challenges, I believe it provides a chance for us to redefine self-confidence and beauty. You are on a journey towards self-discovery and growth, and you are not alone. Through this mentorship program, I aim to be a friend to grow and learn with. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports such as basketball and soccer. My favorite soccer team is Liverpool, and my favorite soccer player is Mo Salah (I’m Egyptian). When I’m not playing sports, I love reading nonfiction books, watching documentaries, and playing music! I went to an arts high school and played the Bassoon since I was 13 years old! I am looking forward to connecting with you!

David Peter Ciagne is a high school student in New York City. He has fought alopecia off and on since he was six years old. He has found success with a great doctor, medications, and injections and is optimistic about new FDA approved drugs that are newly available for alopecia treatment. He remembers vividly his struggles in middle school with alopecia and wishes to offer hope for other kids going through their own challenges. David Peter is in a great place with his hair now and is so grateful. He also understands that hair isn’t everything although sometimes it can feel that way! David Peter is an avid sports fan, he loves basketball, surfing, and his dogs.