Yoselynn Martinez: Building Community Through Culture and Connection

At just 20 years old, Yoselynn Martinez, an architecture student from White Plains, NY, is leading an inspiring initiative as part of her 2024 JADE Fellowship Capstone Project. Her mission: to create a vibrant, inclusive community at Thomas Jefferson University by celebrating diversity and fostering meaningful connections among students. With an emphasis on supporting BIPOC communities and bridging disciplines, Martinez’s event aims to reimagine how students from all walks of life engage with one another.

Set to launch as a semester kickoff, The Jefferson Kickback is the centerpiece of Yoselynn’s capstone project. Designed as a fun and relaxed event, it invites students across design majors—including architecture, fashion, and engineering—to come together, enjoy music, food, and dancing, and most importantly, connect with one another. The goal is not just to celebrate cultural diversity but to foster a stronger sense of community and belonging among design students. Drawing on skills she honed through the JADE Fellowship and the Posse Foundation, Yoselynn sees this event as a chance to lead her peers toward a more collaborative and supportive environment in design school—one where every student feels valued and uplifted.

Overcoming Challenges to Lead with Purpose

Martinez’s passion for fostering inclusivity stems from her own experiences. Arriving at college at just 17, she faced the challenges of transitioning to campus life while being separated from her family. These struggles ignited her determination to create spaces where students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, could feel seen and supported.

Despite the hurdles, Martinez has flourished as a campus leader. Her roles on the NOMAS board and the DEI Committee have positioned her as a key advocate for diversity and collaboration, fueling her drive to make meaningful change.

Collaboration and Cultural Celebration

Partnering with faculty from the College of Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), the Student Government Association, and cultural student unions, Martinez is building a network of allies to bring her vision to life. The Jefferson Kickback promises to be a dynamic celebration of cultures while fostering interdisciplinary camaraderie.

Martinez’s commitment to inclusivity, resourcefulness, and student advocacy shines through her capstone project. By creating a welcoming environment for students of all disciplines and backgrounds, she is not only enhancing campus culture but also exemplifying the power of architecture as a tool for community building and connection.