Kaison Fong is a student at the University of Nevada, Reno, and a youth advocate on Nevada SILC’s Youth Action Council (YAC). As part of YAC, Kaison works to empower all youth with disabilities and promote disability rights across Nevada. He also serves on the Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar’s Youth Advisory Task Force for Participatory Democracy, where he focuses on increasing civic engagement and conducting youth outreach throughout the state. Kaison is passionate about political science and public policy, particularly inclusive policy through legislation.

What inspired you to join the Youth Action Council? 

Often, people with disabilities are overlooked or dismissed because of unfair stereotypes, which is something that has always needed to change. In a state like Nevada, where many residents are from rural backgrounds, there are fewer resources dedicated to helping people with disabilities. So there's even more room for the YAC to have an impact. I believe that everyone, regardless of whether they have a disability or not, deserves to be treated with the same amount of respect and have access to equal opportunities; joining YAC gives me a chance to advocate for that in my local community and state 

What’s one cause or issue you're passionate about?

One cause that is very important to me is mental health awareness and acceptance, particularly among youth. Mental health is often stigmatized in many communities, and it can be hard for people to reach out to get help for fear that they will receive backlash. To me, two steps that we need to take to address this issue are expanding access to care by making it more affordable and creating more public education campaigns to reduce the stigma around asking for help. 

What does being a leader mean to you?  

To me, being a leader means helping people become the best versions of themselves, whether in the workplace, in sports, or in any other environment. Leaders are encouraging and empathetic toward people and are always supportive, even when they make mistakes. It's also particularly important to remain optimistic in the face of challenges and set goals that they want the team to achieve. In my view, anyone can become a leader as long as they are willing to treat people with kindness and remain committed and determined throughout. 

What’s one fun fact about you? 

I'm originally from the Bay Area so I'm a huge fan of the Golden State Warriors. I've been lucky enough to watch all of their championships over the past decade.

 What are your hobbies or favorite things to do in your free time? 

I love playing all sports - basketball and tennis are my favorites - and watching pro sports as well. I've been playing chess for a few years ever since I watched the Queen's Gambit, and I try to play whenever I have free time. I listen to all genres of music, and hip-hop's my favorite type. 

Do you have a favorite quote, motto, or words to live by? 

"Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard" - Kevin Durant 

If you could make one positive change in your community, what would it be? 

Currently, Nevada as a state is ranked 49th in K-12 education, and a lot of that is due to the lack of funding we get for each pupil. More money from the state budget should be allocated toward education, as it's how we prepare our youth to succeed in the workforce and in life. 

What’s your dream job or goal for the future? 

I would love to get a PhD in math and become a math professor in the future, most likely specializing in applied math or stats. 

Favorite movie, book, show, or musician? 

My favorite movie is the Social Network, which I feel is a nearly flawless film. The acting, pace, plot, etc all work perfectly together to create a really entertaining and gripping movie. 

What inspired you to join the Youth Action Council? 

Continuing to expand my knowledge of the disability population.

What’s one cause or issue you're passionate about? 

Passionate about helping those in need or with disabilities, people of diverse needs.

What does being a leader mean to you? 

 Able to address the needs of others and to communicate positively.

What’s one fun fact about you?

I used to play the violin in Elementary school.  

What are your hobbies or favorite things to do in your free time? 

Watch tv, music or basketball 

Do you have a favorite quote, motto, or words to live by? 

Keep doing your best and if no one is proud of you, be proud of yourself.

If you could make one positive change in your community, what would it be? 

Making the world to be more inclusive.

What’s your dream job or goal for the future? 

I have a social work background, so keep on doing that.

Favorite movie, book, show, or musician? 

Movie: Love and Basketball 

What is your role within YAC?

I am the Youth Outreach Specialist. Pretty much help YAC members set up their council.

What’s one cause or issue you're passionate about? 

I’m passionate about ensuring that people with disabilities—whether visible or invisible—are treated with fairness, respect, and kindness. Everyone deserves to feel seen, understood, and included, no matter their abilities.

What does being a leader mean to you? 

To me, being a leader means having the courage to speak up for others, especially when something is unjust—even if you’re not in charge. Leadership is about using your voice to stand up for what’s right and supporting those who may not always be heard.

Do you have a favorite quote, motto, or words to live by? 

Choose kindness. It costs nothing but means everything. 

What’s your dream job or goal for the future? 

I dream of building a tiny house and having a garden in the desert where I can live sustainably and peacefully.

Favorite movie, book, show, or musician? 

My favorite music producer is Christopher Tapia, because he writes songs for me.