Durgham Alyasiri is the West Community School Zone Leader at Say Yes Buffalo.

I am an advocate for marginalized groups and a voice of empowerment to those in my community who seek equal opportunity and transformative support for them and their families. Through my role as the Say Yes Buffalo and Community Schools Zone Leader, I have the privilege to cultivate partnerships to leverage programs, services, and resources to support students, their parents, families, and community. Taking a holistic approach to education and community development has allowed me to be the catalyst that connects the dots between local businesses, higher education partners, financial partners, and healthcare organizations in a mutually beneficial fashion that allows everyone to meet their organizations’ goals while supplementing the education of our Buffalo residents.

My work and life have been shaped by the values of hope, authenticity, and integrity. Hope for a brighter future for the community as a whole, and the youth in particular. Authenticity in engaging the community, empowering residents through education and access, and advocacy for the community’s best interest. Integrity in carrying out my moral duties and responsibilities as a pillar of support to those in my community who are willing and able, but don’t have access to equitable growth opportunities to help them be independent and contributing members of society.