Larissa Barbosa Ferreira
Larissa is a rising junior at Barnard College, studying Sociology and Human Rights. Passionate about advancing intersectional justice and examining how systems of power shape access, opportunity, and representation, Larissa’s work is driven by a commitment to ensuring that underrepresented communities are not just included but leaders in conversations about social change. Her primary social impact focus is disability justice, inspired by her younger brother, Matheus. For over a decade, Larissa has been involved with Best Buddies and Special Olympics, and currently leads Columbia University's Best Buddies chapter, championing inclusion and building partnerships across New York City for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Larissa applied to the Social Impact Fellowship to deepen her understanding of how meaningful change is created across different professional sectors. She hopes to learn from social impact leaders and peers while developing the tools to translate advocacy, research, and lived experience into lasting systemic change.