LEADERSHIP
Meet the Executive Team
We are a team of young leaders committed to building a stronger, more engaged, and more equitable Mississippi.
Different voices. One mission.
LEADERSHIP
Lead with integrity, courage, and accountability.
SERVICE
Serve our communities and each other with purpose.
EMPOWERMENT
Empower young people to lead and create change.
PROGRESS
Build a better future through action and collaboration.
OUR Executive TEAM
Lydia Grizzell
PRESIDENT
Grizzell leads YDMS, sets strategic priorities, and serves as the organization's chief spokesperson.
Elijah Karriem
VICE PRESIDENT
Karriem supports organizational leadership, coordinates initiatives, and advances statewide membership engagement.
Aniyah Jones
SECRETARY
Jones maintains records, meeting minutes, and organizational documentation while ensuring administrative continuity.
Khalleecia Lee
Treasurer
Lee manages finances, budgeting, reporting, and fiscal accountability for the organization.
Harley Bush
Parliamentarian
Bush advises on bylaws, parliamentary procedure, and organizational governance.
Vacant
Chief of Staff
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Tommy Nichols
National Chairman
Nichols represents Mississippi within the national Young Democrats network and strengthens national partnerships.
Esther Urbina
National Chairwoman
Urbina promotes national engagement opportunities and represents YDMS at the national level.
Markita Shell
Director of Philanthropy
Shell leads fundraising efforts and cultivates relationships with donors and supporters.
Shonna Tillman
Director of Policy
Researches policy issues, develops recommendations, and educates members on legislative priorities.
Mandesha Thornton
Director of Communications
Thornton manages branding, media relations, messaging, and digital communications.
Derrion Arrington
Director of Movement History
Vacant
Director of External Affairs
Taylor Tinsley
Finance Chair