Abrigal Forrester is the Executive Director of Teen Empowerment, where he leads transformative efforts to inspire and uplift youth in Boston. A lifelong Boston resident, he was raised in the vibrant Codman Square neighborhood of Dorchester, an experience that shaped his passion for community development and social change.

Abrigal earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Boston, equipping him with a strong foundation to address complex social challenges. His professional journey reflects a steadfast commitment to empowering underserved communities. Before joining Teen Empowerment, Abrigal held leadership roles, including serving as Director of Community Action at Madison Park Development Corporation, Director of Criminal Justice Initiatives at YouthBuild USA, and contributing to workforce development and social equity initiatives at STRIVE and the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts. He also played a pivotal role in The Boston Foundation’s StreetSafe Boston Initiative, advancing public safety and youth outreach programs.

With deep roots in the city and a wealth of experience, Abrigal continues to champion opportunities that foster positive change and build stronger, more resilient communities.

Suzanne Lee is a trailblazing leader and advocate who served as a founding member and longtime chairperson of the Chinese Progressive Association (CPA) for nearly 30 years. Under her leadership, CPA became a cornerstone grassroots organization dedicated to empowering Boston’s Chinese community through organizing, education, and advocacy, amplifying voices and driving meaningful change.

With a remarkable 35-year career in the Boston Public Schools, Suzanne is perhaps best known for her transformative tenure as Principal of the Josiah Quincy School in Chinatown, where she fostered a vibrant, inclusive learning environment that celebrated the diversity of her community.

Suzanne’s journey as an immigrant began at the age of 11 when she moved to the United States, and her own experiences fuel her unwavering commitment to supporting Boston’s newcomers. A proud advocate for education and opportunity, she holds a Bachelor’s degree from Brandeis University and a Master’s in Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Suzanne’s lifelong dedication to community empowerment and education continues to inspire and uplift generations.

Rebekah Lashman is a consultant specializing in the design of innovative workforce development initiatives. With a deep commitment to bridging the gap for individuals lacking access to professional networks and social capital, she empowers underserved communities to thrive in their careers. Her extensive experience includes serving as Senior Vice President at Commonwealth Corporation, Manager of Workforce Partnerships for the Boston Private Industry Council, a national workforce development consultant with Jobs for the Future, and a program development specialist for Massachusetts’ Department of Employment and Training. Rebekah holds an MBA from the Simmons College Graduate School of Management.

Jaimie McNeil serves as the General Agent for UNITE HERE Local 26, playing a pivotal role in driving the union’s growth across the hotel, airport, food service, and gaming sectors. In this capacity, he provides strategic leadership, advising Local 26 President Carlos Aramayo and spearheading initiatives that strengthen the union's presence and impact. Jaimie is deeply involved in shaping the labor landscape, serving as a Trustee of the Greater Boston Hotel Employees Trust Fund, an Executive Board Member of the Greater Boston Labor Council, and a member of the City of Boston Living Wage Advisory Committee. Additionally, he contributes to broader community and policy efforts as a Board Member of the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley and as a member of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Gaming Policy Advisory Commission.

With extensive experience negotiating over 100 hotel and food service agreements, Jaimie also oversees the union’s legislative and political agenda, ensuring that the voices of workers are heard and represented. A lifelong resident of the Boston area, he currently resides in Roslindale, where he remains actively engaged in his community.

Tanisha Meranda has been a dedicated member of the Refresh Team at the Aloft Hotel in South Boston since 2017, exemplifying excellence and professionalism in hospitality. She proudly stands among the first graduates of BEST’s Introduction to Hospitality, Housekeeping Pre-Apprenticeship, and Apprenticeship Program.

Before joining Local 26, Tanisha served as the food and beverage coordinator for a nonprofit organization focused on supporting individuals navigating reentry, recovery, and homelessness. Her commitment to service and personal growth is further demonstrated by her certifications in TIPS, ServSafe, MA Allergens, and CPR, all earned through BEST’s training programs.

As both a graduate of BEST and an active member of UNITE HERE Local 26, Tanisha brings a unique and invaluable perspective to our Board of Directors, bridging her lived experience with a passion for advancing opportunities in the hospitality industry.