Anissa Rivera - Girls Inc. of Long Island

Anissa Rivera currently serves as the Program Manager of Girls Inc. of Long Island, after being promoted from Program Coordinator. After graduating from the International Center of Photography while simultaneously earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from St. John’s University, she focused her personal work on documenting social issues within her community through photography, videography, and writing. Her focus on social issues led her back to the International Center of Photography where she served as a mentor and assistant in their community partnership with Friends of Island Academy and the Center for Alternative Sentencing and Employment Services in Harlem.

While there, Anissa worked within the themes of self and community empowerment with young adults who had previously been involved in the court system. The program sought to empower its students to change their narrative through the use of digital photography, writing, and public speaking as tools for learning, self-expression, and affecting positive change. After her time with ICP’s community programs, Anissa served as a facilitator and mentor in Art, Leadership, and STEM with the Police Athletic League, whose mission is to support and inspire the youth to realize their full potential. At the Police Athletic League, she also served as a mentor in their Girls’ Talk program, which strives to create an environment that inspires, motivates, and cultivates confidence in young females in all facets of their lives.

Anissa’s true passion in youth development, gender equity and female empowerment led her to Girls Inc. of Long Island. Through Girls Inc.’s combination of direct service and advocacy with and for girls, Anissa seeks to be a barrier breaker and fearless leader in the fight for equity. Anissa is currently attending Alfred University as a candidate for a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. With her degree, she ultimately aims to develop, implement and manage programs and policies that will drive impactful and positive community change for the underserved and underrepresented.