Get To Know Us!

Ayesha Rizvi - Peer Education Coordinator

"I strongly believe that people are naturally peer educators because everyone brings different perspectives and their own knowledge attainment to every conversation. I believe keeping an open mind and continuously educating myself through credible research and resources is essential to being an effective peer educator. I am not here to tell people what to believe, but I want to be able to provide accurate information and support those who seek it! Education is especially important to me when discussing sexual violence, a topic surrounded by stigma and discomfort. I value my role in PAVE because it creates a safe environment where difficult conversations can be discussed openly and respectfully, helping normalize education around sexual violence and contribute to a more informed campus community."

Samuel Beaver - Volunteer Coordinator

"I joined PAVE because I recognized the prevalence of sexual violence on campus, how it went largely an unspoken issue UNLESS it was brought up; I wanted to enact change that would both normalize conversations around violence prevention and promoting consent in a broader way. I saw PAVE as a way to enact peer led and educational change on campus."

Sympathy Mwenyeheri - Communications Coordinator

"I work at PAVE because I’m passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for students. PAVE gives me an opportunity to raise awareness about sexual violence, promote prevention and education, and help create a space where people feel safe speaking up, seeking support, and having conversations that can sometimes be difficult to have."

Alayna Smith - Outreach and Events Coordinator

"I joined PAVE because I was looking for a community that recognized the unspoken culture of sexual violence that I saw all around me. During my first year as a volunteer, I learned a lot about the intersectional factors that lead to sexual violence. I also engaged in illuminating discussions with my peers that inspired me to keep fighting for a better UW. I am continuing to work for PAVE so that I can highlight the importance of peer education and community connection as the tools to creating a violence-free campus."

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Ashley Nysse - Outreach and Event Coordinator

"I started volunteering at PAVE last Spring and joined the staff to help expand the program and help as many people as possible! I really value peer education and creating a safe space for everyone"