Ahmad Perez is a dedicated advocate for environmental justice and community empowerment. His journey is rooted in a deep commitment to lifting up the voices of those often overlooked and creating meaningful change in the places that need it most.
Growing up in Brentwood, New York, a community deeply affected by systemic challenges like environmental injustice and gang violence, Ahmad saw firsthand the resilience of his neighbors and the power of collective action. Inspired by these experiences, he founded the District 1 Youth Advisory Board to provide opportunities and resources for disadvantaged youth. He also established Brentwood Votes, a local initiative to inspire civic engagement and increase voter turnout, driven by his belief in the strength of community participation, engaging over 20,000 local residents.
Ahmad’s passion for environmental justice grew from the painful history of Roberto Clemente Park, a beloved recreational space in Brentwood that was turned into an illegal dumping ground for toxic waste. For years, residents were deprived of this vital community space, and the health and safety of countless families were put at risk. Ahmad’s advocacy is deeply tied to reclaiming and protecting places like this for future generations.
Believing in the importance of bridging communities with decision-makers, Ahmad has worked alongside non-profits, government agencies, and even the White House. He helped organize Brentwood’s first Youth Town Hall on Climate with White House officials, creating a platform for young people to engage directly with policymakers.
Though Brentwood has faced its share of struggles, Ahmad is inspired by the strength and determination of its people. He works to channel this resilience into action, advocating for safer neighborhoods, environmental protections, and greater opportunities for all residents.
Ahmad’s vision is not just about policy—it’s about empowering individuals, restoring hope, and building a future where every community has the resources and respect it deserves.
Ahmad being sworn into the
Biden-Harris Administration
Through his work with the District 1 Youth Advisory Board, Ahmad has been dedicated to supporting underprivileged youth in Brentwood, Central Islip, and North Bay Shore. By focusing on advocacy, civic engagement, and providing resources and supplies, Ahmad has helped empower young people to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for success.
Ahmad’s commitment to environmental and social justice has earned him recognition as one of Young Gifted & Green’s 40 Under 40. He has also been honored by Brenda Mallory, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, for his impactful contributions to advancing equity and environmental justice.
Ahmad advocating for climate justice with NYS officials.
In 2022, Ahmad founded the District 1 Youth Advisory Board to tackle the pressing issue of youth disengagement in community affairs.
Growing up in Brentwood, he recognized that young people were often excluded from conversations about policies and decisions that would shape their futures.
This disconnect left their voices unheard and their ideas untapped, perpetuating a cycle of disempowerment in a community already grappling with systemic challenges.
Brentwood, Central Islip, and North Bay Shore are communities that have long faced social and economic inequities, impacting residents' quality of life.
Ahmad envisioned the Youth Advisory Board as a platform to empower young people in these areas, equipping them with the tools and opportunities to actively participate in civic life and advocate for change.
Under his leadership, the Board has become a beacon of hope, fostering a new generation of leaders committed to shaping a brighter future for their communities.
This foundation in grassroots organizing inspired him to pursue public service, where he has brought his passion for equity and sustainability to the national stage.
At the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Ahmad played a vital role in advancing key climate initiatives made possible by transformative federal investments. He spearheaded efforts to unite cross-regional teams and external partners, ensuring that communities nationwide could access resources to tackle the climate crisis. Ahmad’s work emphasized collaboration and strategic planning, bridging gaps between policy, implementation, and community needs.
Committed to fostering innovation, Ahmad helped develop frameworks to strengthen government engagement with communities, ensuring that voices often left out of decision-making processes were heard and prioritized. His efforts contributed to shaping policies that not only addressed immediate environmental challenges but also laid the groundwork for long-term equity and resilience.
Beyond policymaking, Ahmad leveraged his creative talents to amplify the impact of climate programs through strategic communications, reaching hundreds of thousands of people and highlighting the tangible benefits of these initiatives.
Ahmad with EPA Administrator Michael Regan.
