BrandUp Teen Advisory Board

Orane Barrett is a social entrepreneur and founder of Kool Nerd Connect (KNC), a career education company that helps underserved youth find career opportunities through mentorship and skill-building. He holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Rochester and began his career at Intel as a Process Engineer and Operations Manager. After earning his MBA from MIT Sloan, Orane worked as an investment banker at UBS before launching KNC to address workforce needs.

Lainie Rowell is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and award-winning educator with over 25 years of experience in individual and organizational growth. She has worked with companies such as Apple and Google, delivered presentations in 41 states and on four continents, and was described as “gritty” by Angela Duckworth. Her Bold Gratitude framework combines psychology, behavioral science, and neuroscience to offer practical ways for people to focus on meaningful goals and build strong connections. As a former district leader supporting 22,000 students and 1,200 teachers, her work has been featured on PBS NewsHour, Edutopia, Greater Good Magazine, and Thrive Global.

Lynelle Kerstine is an Independent Education Consultant who uses her experience as an award-winning marketing executive and writing expert to support students in college admissions. She helps students identify their unique paths and create strong narratives that stand out. She has held senior positions at MGM and New Line Cinema, written a children’s book series, and managed campaigns for brands such as Skechers, Mattel, and HBO. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a College Counseling certificate from UCLA. Lynelle discovered her love for college counseling while volunteering with a non-profit focused on creative writing.

Roselanda Lucas is a high school senior from Delray Beach, Florida. She leads in JROTC, is president of her school’s Recycling Club, and owns Rose Crochet World. Roselanda cares deeply about nursing, leadership, and helping other teens gain confidence.

Lila Alpers is a freshman at Horace Greeley High School, class of 2029. She has one brother and an almost 18-year-old dog. Lila enjoys traveling and spending time with her friends and family.

Shelley Perez-Rubio is a 10th grader at Laurel High School in Laurel, Delaware. She is interested in global issues and entrepreneurship and serves as a Student Government Association officer. Shelley aspires to become a biomedical engineer focused on the intersection of science and politics.

Farida Momodu is a 10th grader at Odyssey Charter School in Wilmington, Delaware. She likes helping others, playing lacrosse, and volunteers with organizations such as Healthy Kids Running. Farida plans to become a math teacher.

Mariana Padilla is a junior at Carnegie Vanguard High School who cares about entrepreneurship and education. She is the 11th-grade representative for the entrepreneurship club, Chief Strategy Officer for her Junior Achievement team, and volunteers as a teaching assistant at her church.

Andrea Oyanguren is a high school senior interested in branding, social media, and audience engagement. She plans to work in marketing, bringing together creativity and strategy in digital marketing.

Nitya Lohiya is a 10th-grader from India and a World Citizen Peace Ambassador who believes young people can shape the future. She founded That Teen, a global platform that empowers teens to be their best selves through inspiration, community, and practical tools. Nitya is a 2025 TED-Education Speaker and author of 13 Lessons I Wish Everyone Knew at 13.

Kaitlyn “Kailey” Rupp is a high school junior in Georgia and Vice President of Marketing for Girl Friends of CHOA. She plays soccer for Walton High School and Roswell Santos and works in sports medicine at Walton, combining her interests in sports and healthcare. Kailey is certified in CPR and sports taping and wants to use her skills to help others on and off the field.

Justice Haller is a 9th grader based in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. He is an actor, singer, and influencer who has released 14 singles and starred as the lead in two films. Justice enjoys tennis and adventure, especially rock climbing, lake surfing, and travel.

Nathan Hilsenrath is an 11th grader at Olympic Heights High School in Boca Raton, Florida. He likes psychology and fitness and coaches youth basketball. Nathan plans to pursue engineering or psychology and is taking calculus, advanced chemistry, and advanced psychology. He is also interested in joining a psychology research study.

Tyra Salimu is a Grade 10 student at Trinityhouse Glenvista. She enjoys helping people and taking on leadership roles. She is actively involved in soccer, athletics, and public speaking, and also participates in CSI (Community Service Initiative) and WESSA (Environmental Group) at her school. Tyra aspires to become a CEO and has a strong interest in actuarial science and quantitative finance. She is currently focused on developing her skills in mathematics, finance, and productivity systems.

Ellie Mae Smith is a homeschooled freshman living in the Southwest. An actress, writer, and aspiring filmmaker, she has a deep love of movies, reading, and music. Ellie has credits in over 20 films and 15 stage productions and is the youngest person in the U.S. to have a feature film produced.


