An Exciting Transition for Young Storytellers

As you may have heard, Young Storytellers is in a time of exciting transition. After 19 years of dedicated leadership, Bill Thompson, President & Head of Growth, left Young Storytellers at the end of 2025 to become Senior Vice President and Executive Director at City Year LA. We are excited for his next chapter, and are so grateful for the strong foundation he’s built for this organization.

As we evolve our leadership and strengthen our work, we are searching for our next executive leader. While we go through that process, on behalf of the Board of Directors, I’m pleased to announce Gisele Roberts as our Interim Executive Director, who will help to drive our strategic priorities, ensure continuity, and champion Young Storytellers as we continue to grow. 

Gisele is no stranger to Young Storytellers, having served on the Board for three years, and comes to us with a deep understanding of both education and nonprofit leadership. She spent five years as a classroom teacher with Alliance for College Ready Public Schools and most recently served as Director of Corporate Engagement at LA Works, where she mobilized volunteers across Los Angeles. Her career bridging storytelling, youth empowerment, and community engagement makes her uniquely suited to lead Young Storytellers through this important transition. 

Additionally, the Board is thrilled to announce a new board leadership group, AJ Nseir as our Board Chair, and a wonderful and dedicated Executive Committee. AJ has served as Board Secretary for the last two years, and has been a dedicated volunteer since 2009.

We are energized for what’s to come in 2026, and thank you for supporting Young Storytellers every step of the way!