Elev8 was born out of the passion and purpose of the West High Black Student Union, where a small group of young changemakers decided it was time to build something bigger,  something nationwide. We saw firsthand what happens when Black students are given the space to lead, organize, and speak up, and we knew we weren’t alone.

Now, Elev8 is a growing national network of high school a wide array of student unions and organizations across the country. We exist to unite young leaders of all backgrounds, give them the tools to grow, and create a space where our voices aren’t just heard, they’re centered.

We're about more than just meetings. We’re building chapters, developing leadership, and creating a platform where students from coast to coast can connect, collaborate, and create real impact in their schools and beyond.

Our mission is to expand and educate the next generation of young leaders, providing opportunities for learning, organizing, and unapologetically leading with purpose.

Our current national leadership team includes:

Corte Beal, President  and Founder

Vanessa Shannon, Executive Director and Founder

Alicia Austin, Head of Finance and Founder

Rawan Babiker, Founder

This is just the beginning.

Pass the flame. Power the movement.