MEET OUR TEAM
On behalf of our team, we are immensely honored and filled with pride for the work we engage in. We recognize the world's need for more compassionate and diverse leaders. As a collective, we are wholeheartedly committed to nurturing the emergence of the next wave of LGBTQ+ leaders and change-makers. Through our leadership camps and programs, we are devoted to assisting LGBTQ youth in discovering their community, purpose, and enthusiasm. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for joining us on this transformative journey.
Jessica Weissbuch (She/her) & Kayla Weissbuch (SHE/HER)
CO-FOUNDERS & EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Brave Trails was conceived during a heartfelt late-night conversation between Jessica and Kayla, a moment etched in time as they returned home from a movie night. At the age of 8, Kayla was awarded a scholarship to a summer camp that would forever change her life. This camp, with its nurturing, inclusive, and transformative environment, captured her heart. She returned year after year, eventually becoming a beloved member of its staff, nurturing dreams of one day becoming the camp director.
Meanwhile, Jessica's academic journey focused on LGBTQ+ youth affirmative therapy practices. Her passion led her to establish the COLORS LGBTQ Youth Counseling Center and assume the role of Program Manager at the LA LGBT Center. Here, she witnessed firsthand the profound importance of mentorship and community in the lives of young LGBTQ+ individuals, further fueling her commitment to their well-being.
The concept of Brave Trails took root when Kayla's love for summer camp and Jessica's dedication to LGBTQ+ youth leadership intersected. Most significantly, they envisioned a sanctuary that LGBTQ+ youth could always consider their second home. Their vision resonated deeply with others, and the inaugural Brave Trails summer camp session materialized in 2015 through the generosity of small, individual donations from their community.
In the early years, Jessica and Kayla, with steadfast support from friends Coby Pfaff and Matt Marr, breathed life into Brave Trails through voluntary dedication. After receiving donations and witnessing the growth of our nonprofit, they transitioned from their former occupations to fully commit themselves to Brave Trails, pouring their hearts and souls into this passion project. Reflecting on those formative years, Kayla and Jessica emphasize, "Brave Trails emerged from a place of love and a burning passion for something we wished existed during our own formative years, something that is even more crucial for the LGBTQ+ youth of today." Today, Jessica and Kayla reside in Los Angeles, where they proudly parent their beautiful child, Ari. In addition to directing Brave Trails, they remain actively engaged in organizations like the American Camp Association and the Western Association of Independent Camps. In addition to their roles in leading this non-profit, they act as trusted consultants, championing LGBTQ+ inclusion and support at both local and national levels. Together, they continue to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for LGBTQ+ youth.
COBY PFAFF (HE/HIM)
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Coby's journey with Brave Trails began in its earliest days, where he stood side by side with Jessica and Kayla to lay the very foundation of our organization. To us, Coby is like an anchor, providing a comforting presence in the midst of any challenge. At camp, you'll often find him in the office, tirelessly ensuring that every logistical detail runs seamlessly. He's the one who shares the art of archery with our campers and never fails to steal the spotlight with his impeccable costumes during our legendary theme nights. But that's not all; Coby has a knack for delightful surprises. He'll serenade you with his incredible singing voice and even showcase his professional clown skills, leaving campers utterly enchanted.
Coby's own childhood was deeply touched by the magic of camp, and he cherished every summer spent amidst its wonders of the outdoors. Camp became a profound force in molding his self-confidence, nurturing his social skills, and nurturing his love for the community. As a young person, he dedicated himself to being a counselor for underserved youth at Camp Max Strauss in Los Angeles. His educational journey led him to graduate from Santa Clara University with a degree in Psychology, propelling him towards a role as an After-School Care and Summer Program Director for the YMCA. In 1999, he ventured into the world of e-commerce, mastering the skills necessary for running a thriving business organization. Additionally, Coby generously volunteered for three years as a helpline counselor for the Trevor Project, an LGBTQ Suicide helpline.
Coby's heart overflows with excitement as he persistently works on fashioning a secure and supportive sanctuary at camp for LGBTQ+ youth. His dedication shines through in every aspect of his efforts.
JAKE YOUNG (THEY/HE)
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Jake's journey with Brave Trails began as a volunteer cabin counselor during our inaugural summer, and it's safe to say that we all instantly adored them. Describing our affection for Jake as "love" doesn't quite capture the depth of it. In fact, it's no surprise that Jake's camp name is "Mama Bear" – their heart is as vast as the wilderness we explore, and their passion for our mission knows no bounds. Whether they're providing unwavering support to our staff members, beautifully documenting camp life on our vibrant social media accounts, or dazzling us all as the charismatic MC of our camp variety show, Jake's presence is like a warm, glitter-filled hug on the longest camp days.
Born and raised under the sunny skies of San Diego, CA, Jake's personal journey led them to come out during high school. From that moment on, they made it their mission to unapologetically be themselves and to help others see that being different is nothing short of magical. This commitment stayed with Jake throughout their college years, during which they became increasingly involved in the vibrant San Diego LGBTQ+ community. They devoted their time to participating in local youth empowerment summits and became an active member of a queer fraternity, eventually assuming the role of president.
In 2014, Jake graduated from SDSU with a degree in Communication, honing their exceptional ability to connect with and lead groups of people. Some might say Jake is a true wizard of communication, as they single-handedly transformed the Brave Trails Instagram account from a modest 3,000 followers to an impressive 20,000+ in just two years. But that's not all – they've also lent their creative touch to designing all the fantastic merchandise in our camp store, crafted those eye-catching newsletter emails that grace your inbox every month, and contributed so much more to our remarkable community.
SOPHIA HASTINGS (SHE/THEY)
SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR
We are absolutely thrilled to introduce you to Sophia Hastings, our radiant Summer Camp Director here at Brave Trails. Sophia's journey with camps ignited at the age of nine, setting the stage for a lifelong passion that has brought her to this wonderful point in her career. Her 18 year odyssey within the camp world has been nothing short of extraordinary – from the eager camper to the devoted CIT, counselor, unit leader, programs assistant, programs manager, and assistant director, culminating in her current role as our beloved camp director.
Sophia's personal story is a testament to the profound impact that a camp experience can have on an individual's life. It is this very influence that fueled her academic pursuits, leading her to obtain undergraduate degrees in social work and gender and women's studies from Widener University, followed by a master's degree in social work from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2019. Her scholarly focus has remained dedicated to championing the causes of queer and women's issues, as well as nurturing communities, with a heartfelt emphasis on uplifting marginalized groups within these spheres.
Since joining the Brave Trails family in 2019 as a programs assistant, Sophia has been nothing short of a force of nature. From the moment she walked into her initial interview, there was a palpable sense of magic in the air. Over the years, Sophia has poured her heart and soul into our camp, ensuring that every camper and staff member feels not just welcomed, but truly seen and cherished. She has been the architect of joy at Brave Trails, skillfully weaving moments of silliness and laughter even during the most challenging of times.
Taylor Mu’min (THEY/SHE)
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY
Taylor, a sun-kissed soul hailing from Southern California, first discovered their deep love for the world of camps in 2004 when they embarked on an unforgettable week at a summer sleepaway camp. The magic of that experience lingered in their heart for a decade until they found themselves back at Camp Whispering Oaks, this time as a Cabin Counselor. Their journey at Whispering Oaks saw them taking on various roles, but it was as the Teen Leadership Coordinator that they truly found their calling. In this pivotal position, Taylor nurtured and guided older campers through their transformative journeys from campers to staff members. After nearly a decade of devoted service at Whispering Oaks, Taylor is now eager to embark on a new chapter, one filled with fresh opportunities for teaching, learning, growth, and play.
As a Black Queer individual, Taylor felt an immediate resonance with the mission of Brave Trails and recognized the organization's unique and crucial role within the LGBTQ+ community. Their passion for working with youth, particularly LGBTQ+ youth, has been a lifelong calling, even from their own youth. Through high school and college, Taylor assumed leadership positions in LGBTQ+ organizations, dedicating themselves to creating safe, inclusive, and liberating spaces for their peers. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater from CSUSM, Taylor is well-prepared to infuse their artistic talents into the various performance-based programs offered at Camp Brave Trails.
With a heart overflowing with compassion and a spirit of leadership that radiates warmth, Taylor is ready to continue building communities and conjuring camp magic, Brave Trails Style, for many more years to come. Their commitment to inclusivity and their unwavering passion for creating enriching experiences for all shines brightly in everything they do.
Max Filippoff (He/Him)
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY
Max is a true camp aficionado with a heart that beats passionately for the LGBTQ+ community. His journey into the world of summer camps started at the age of 9, and for over 13 glorious summers, he has been an integral part of the camp experience for hundreds of youth. Max's devotion to camp life runs deep, and if you were to ask him to pick a favorite role from his impressive resume, be prepared to wait a few business days – because every role has left an indelible mark on his heart.
Throughout his years leading both staff and campers, Max has not only fostered unforgettable memories but also made a profound impact. He has orchestrated workshops on crucial subjects like Anti-Racism, Knowing Your Rights, and Equity and Inclusion in the Camp Space. His ingenuity shone through when he managed to run a successful program without power or water for an entire week, unintentionally crafting a framework for resilience and adaptability. Nationally recognized for his expertise, Max has led trainings on Camper Communication, Creating Camp Culture, and Staff Management. His dedication doesn't end at camp; he pursued nursing after high school and now serves with the Long Beach Medical Reserve Corps, exemplifying his commitment to the well-being of others.
Max's journey into creating safe havens for those who have experienced bullying and exclusion during the school year is rooted in a personal understanding of these challenges. Camp became his sanctuary, a place of acceptance and belonging. It was here that he discovered Brave Trails and was immediately drawn to our mission, fueled by the memory of a dear friend from the community. Max's enthusiasm knows no bounds as he embraces the opportunity to mentor and support the incredible Unicorn Crew, all while contributing his magic to make camp an even more enchanting place.
Mari Napoli (they/them)
MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM MANAGER
Mari, who just transplanted here from Boston, MA, couldn’t be more thrilled to join the Brave Trails team as Mental Health Program Manager! They have been following Camp Brave Trails’ mission closely for years, and now that they reside in beautiful and sunny San Diego, they knew it was time to hop on that beautiful, queer ship! Their deep passion for LGBTQIA+ causes, mental health advocacy, and the camp experience served as the driving force behind their decision to become a part of our community.
Mari's journey into the world of summer camps began as a cabin counselor with the SeriousFun Children's Network, where they spent two unforgettable summers at 'The Painted Turtle' in Lake Hughes, CA, and 'Camp Korey' in Mount Vernon, WA. These experiences, although missed during their own childhood, reshaped Mari's life, forging profound connections and unforgettable moments that are intrinsic to the camp experience.
Mari played a pivotal role in establishing and leading "Little Rainbows," Massachusetts' inaugural support group for LGBTQIA+ elementary-aged youth and their parents within NAGLY (North Shore Alliance of Queer Youth). This initiative created a magical space where the youngest members of the queer community could freely express themselves, be authentic, and connect with peers who shared similar identities. Their professional journey extended to becoming an LGBTQIA+ Outpatient Therapist, working with clients aged 9 to 50. Through this, Mari evolved both as a therapist and as a well-rounded individual, nurturing the growth and development of queer individuals of all ages.
As a queer, non-binary individual, Mari found their sense of belonging in spaces that celebrate diverse experiences within the queer community. Their goal is to create inclusive environments where campers feel a strong sense of belonging, underpinned by their effervescent personality and remarkable ability to connect with others. Mari is excited to embark on their Brave Trails journey, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to contribute their unique talents to making camp an even more welcoming and enchanting place for all who participate.
Kiersten Short (She/HER)
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Kiersten's journey with Brave Trails is a heartwarming testament to the magic of camp and the bonds that it weaves. Her story began when her child, the vibrant and resilient Sophie (they/them), stumbled upon Brave Trails online in 2016. From that serendipitous discovery, a remarkable adventure unfolded. For five consecutive summers, Sophie reveled in the transformative embrace of the camp, even experiencing a memorable virtual session in 2020—a testament to the camp's adaptability and enduring spirit.
As the years danced by and Sophie gracefully aged out of the camp program, Kiersten felt an irresistible pull to become part of the Brave Trails family herself. With an open heart and a desire to pay forward the profound impact the camp had on Sophie, Kiersten embraced her new role, helping with registration and enrollment. She became a steadfast pillar of support, providing solace and answers to other parents navigating the journey of sending their children to camp, reassuring them about the incredible experiences that awaited.
Kiersten's connection to Brave Trails runs deep, rooted in her own cherished memories of summer camp adventures in the heartland and along the sun-soaked coast of Southern California. She understands the unparalleled joy and lifelong friendships that the camp environment fosters. Kiersten's commitment to nurturing the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders shines through her background in nonprofit work with HIV/AIDS Service organizations and social justice groups. Her passion for empowering young trailblazers, coupled with her unwavering warmth, makes her an invaluable addition to the Brave Trails community, where love, acceptance, and growth flourish.
OUR BOARD
Brave Trails is overseen by an autonomous, volunteer Board of Directors, composed of enthusiastic and skilled individuals who share a deep belief in our mission. The Board's foremost commitment lies in upholding Brave Trails' financial stability and the impact of our mission.
Our devoted Board members actively participate in four board meetings annually, contribute to committees, make key fiscal governance choices, provide financial support to Brave Trails, and actively champion the cause. Above all, they wholeheartedly embody our mission to shape a brighter future for LGBTQ+ youth.
Steven Jaworski, Board President
With over 15 years’ experience in scripted television & movie production, Steven’s rise through the entertainment industry can be traced back to the active beginnings of his youth: protesting censorship, canvassing for presidential elections, and watching hours of Nick-at-Night with his siblings. He considers himself a modest dreamer from Cleveland, Ohio who headed west at the age of 21 in search of diversity and freedom. In addition to his VP role at A+E Studios, he co-chairs two diversity committees, created an industry first trainee program for individuals who were impacted by foster care, homelessness and incarceration, and is the executive sponsor of Pride @ A+E Networks.
Laura Newman, Board Vice President
A licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed general contractor, farmer, and social justice advocate. Laura is our resident jack of all trades! Laura has been with Brave Trails since day 1 and in many ways is a pillar of our foundation.
Omar Torres, Board Secretary
A licensed clinical social worker primarily working with LGBTQ+ people, those affected by HIV, and those struggling with addiction. At camp, Omar supports campers as our mental health staff member. He is also known to have the best theme day outfits!
Cathy Kaiser, Board Treasurer
A retired certified public accountant with over four decades of experience in accounting and finance. Cathy learned about Brave Trails when she was matched as our consultant through Executive Service Corps in 2019. We quickly fell in mutual admiration of one another’s work and now we are lucky to have her on our board!
Carla Hacken, BOARD MEMBER
Carla is one of the Film and Television industries most respected Producers. When she isn’t navigating the ever changing landscape of the entertainment industry, she is navigating raising her two teenage boys. The mother in her feels passionately about the Brave Trails mission and she loves bringing her “mom skills” to our board.
Michael Carney, BOARD MEMBER
An actor and talent supervisor with two decades of experience in the entertainment business. At camp, Michael is our resident photographer, videographer, and as the campers like to say, memory catcher! He is also a legend at camp for being the ultimate prankster.
ANGELA FARMER, BOARD MEMBER
A successful businesswoman and entrepreneur with three decades of experience creating travel adventures for the LGBTQ+ community. She is an adventurer and conservation photographer bringing awareness to endangered species and the preservation of wild places.
PATTIE GONIA, Honorary Board Member
Pattie Gonia (she/they) is a critically acclaimed drag queen, environmentalist and advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the outdoors. Pattie is well known for their outdoor feats like climbing, skiing, surfing and hiking all in drag. Pattie Gonia founded the Pattie Gonia Community which exists to uplift LGBTQIA+ people and allies in the outdoors through events, Pride festivals and outdoor programming. She’s also the co-founder of the Outdoorist Oath- a non-profit that works for intersectional action for planet, inclusion and adventure. Recently, Pattie founded the Queer Outdoor and Environmental Job Board - a free tool queer individuals can use to get hired and therefore diversify the fields.
Together with her community, they’ve fundraised over $1.5 million dollars for LGBTQIA+, BIPOC and environmental non-profits, completed thousands of miles of hiking and backpacking and raised awareness about the ongoing environmental crisis through their film projects like Birds Tell Us & Everything to Lose. Pattie’s drag itself is a personal journey of self identity, sustainability, and queering traditional masculine outdoor narratives to explore the natural world.