Kelese Bryant
Kelese Bryant is dedicated to advancing equitable access to culturally responsive mental health and social services for communities of color.
During her first year in UCLA’s MSW program, Kelese provided clinical support to children and families at Wellnest Emotional Health & Wellness, where she witnessed how child welfare, education, and mental health systems intersect to shape access to care and well-being.
Beyond clinical practice, Kelese has supported Black and Brown youth through UCLA’s Students Heightening Academic Performance through Education (SHAPE) program and has engaged in advocacy and political education efforts, including work connected to Senator Alex Padilla and former U.S. Representative Cori Bush. Kelese was raised in Compton, California. She recently earned her B.A. in Sociology with a minor in African American Studies from UCLA. She aspires to integrate direct practice, community organizing, and policy advocacy to advance health equity and community empowerment.