Background and Inspiration
Hi, I’m Maya Green, founder of Yes We Can. Raised in New York City, I learned early on that fairness doesn’t just happen.
Growing up, I was the kid constantly questioning why things were so unfair; why some people got ahead while others were left to scramble. That drive to understand – and ultimately do something about – the deep inequalities I saw around me led me to pursue a degree in Public Policy at the City University of New York. New York’s diversity became both my backdrop and inspiration, driving me to address inequality actively. My work now focuses on three key areas:
- Civil rights
- Economic justice
- Environmental protection
These are areas where small victories can create significant change. I believe that, with the right tools and commitment, we can create real change. Yes We Can is where I put that belief into action.
When I’m not working, I’m usually doing something that gives my mind a little space to breathe.
- I love cooking — though I won’t pretend I’ve mastered it. My kitchen experiments don’t always go to plan, but I’ve found that there’s something deeply satisfying about putting a meal together from scratch. I’ll leave baking to the experts, though. Let’s just say my bread-making attempts have taught me the valuable lesson that sometimes, things just don’t rise the way you expect them to.
- I’m also a runner, which surprises people who don’t know me well. For me, running is a way to clear my head and refocus. It gives me time to think — or not think — depending on the day. Some days I’m out there imagining new ways to talk about economic inequality, and other days I’m just focused on getting through the next mile. Running keeps me grounded in a world that often feels anything but.
- Traveling to national parks offers both escape and reflection. These landscapes reinforce the importance of environmental justice while reminding me of our country’s complex history with Indigenous peoples.
Throughout my journey, I maintain that change requires collective effort and active participation. This belief drives my work with Yes We Can, where we strive to build a fairer world together.
Professional Journey and Yes We Can Initiative
My career in advocacy began after graduating with a degree in Public Policy. Early on, I worked with a civil rights organization in New York City, challenging discriminatory practices and pushing for policy reforms. This experience showed me that legal advocacy can drive social change, despite the often non-linear nature of progress.
A defining chapter came with my work on economic justice initiatives. We lobbied for:
- Fair wages
- Better working conditions
- Comprehensive health benefits for overlooked workers
This role highlighted the importance of fighting for a living wage that respects human dignity.
Environmental protection has been another cornerstone of my advocacy. Working with grassroots organizations, I campaigned against environmental degradation and for sustainable policies. This work underscored the intersection of environmental justice and social equity, particularly in marginalized communities.
Recognizing the need for an integrative approach to these interconnected issues, I founded Yes We Can. This initiative aims to advance social justice, equality, and the protection of marginalized communities through inclusive dialogue and actionable change.
Key achievements of Yes We Can include:
- Community workshops that educate and empower individuals with advocacy tools
- Digital campaigns that spotlight injustices and mobilize support
- Partnerships with other organizations and community leaders to amplify our impact
So that’s a little bit about me. I’m someone who believes in practical solutions, thoughtful dialogue, and a future where fairness isn’t a rare commodity. Through Yes We Can, I hope to build a community that’s ready to challenge the status quo and create real, lasting change – because while fairness may not just happen, I believe we can make it happen together.