Deena Ismail

Deena Ismail, LMSW, oversees the development, design, and implantation of One Love's youth mobilization and leadership efforts. With over 12 years of experience in youth development and building transformative communities, Deena has dedicated her life's work to creating spaces in which the community's power can heal individuals by viewing themselves and their environment holistically. Throughout her career, Deena has been pivotal in developing programs around criminal justice reform, trauma-informed practice, and youth leadership. Most recently, Deena oversaw the creation and expansion of The Door's – a New York City non-profit organization that provides wrap-around services to young people 12-24 – youth leadership and community building programs. Deena earned her BA in Peace and Global Studies from Earlham College and her MSW from Hunter College. To learn more about One Love's youth leadership and mobilization programming, please email Deena at Deena.