Ideas Inspire Fellowship

The Ideas Inspire Fellowship supports emerging leaders with funding, mentorship, and skill-building to address challenges in the local community. Funded by an anonymous grant, the SJSU Fellows join a network of Fellows within the Bay Area.

2026 Fellow

Tai Nguyen

Tai Nguyen

Tai is a Management Information Systems graduate from SJSU with an interest in business, technology, and community impact. His experience as an SJSU College Corps fellow helped him grow as a leader and demonstrated how service, education, and technology can create meaningful change. As an Ideas Inspire Fellow, he hopes to strengthen his skills in data, problem-solving, and civic engagement to better support local communities. He is committed to learning, serving, and using his experiences to make a positive impact.

Kimberly Contreras

Kimberly Contreras

Kimberly is a Public Relations student with a passion for building community and connection through storytelling. As a first-generation college student, she is inspired by her family’s resilience and the opportunities education has provided her to make a meaningful impact in her community. Through her involvement in student organizations and campus leadership roles, she has seen firsthand how authentic storytelling can bring people together. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a career in public relations and communications, helping organizations connect with their audiences in genuine and meaningful ways. She is passionate about using strategic communication to amplify stories and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and connected.

2025 Fellow

Allen Ngo

Allen Ngo

Allen is a Political Science major who plans to attend law school when he graduates. His goal is to become a defense attorney who advocates for youth in the criminal justice system. Inspired by his high school government teacher and encouraged by his mother to pursue higher education, he is determined to be the first in his family to pursue graduate education. During his third year, Allen interned at Fresh Lifelines for Youth which deepened his passion for supporting at-risk youth. His work with the Center for Community Learning & Leadership as well as local nonprofits Resource Area For Teaching (RAFT), Sacred Heart, and Second Harvest illuminated the impact of service and community engagement. Allen remains committed to honoring his roots while forging a new path through law, driven by a desire to serve and make a difference.