“I am not an expert in behavioral health; I am a mom who has experienced the entire spectrum of the behavioral health service system, and what I found was broken, and that children and families were falling through the cracks at every conceivable point along the way. As a legislator and a Tri-Chair, I am laser-focused on operationalizing the 2022 legislation that will build the best, most comprehensive system we can.”
Meet Our Trailblazer
Representative Tammy Exum
We are excited to announce the 2025 Trailblazer Award, celebrating individuals who show an unwavering, long-term commitment to a more just and equitable system for young people. This award honors visionary leaders who profoundly improve young lives and marginalized communities, create space for partnership, and encourage others to lead. We are incredibly proud to present this year's Trailblazer Award to State Representative Tammy Exum.
State Representative Tammy Exum is a dedicated public servant committed to community betterment and youth well-being. A former elementary school teacher with a master’s in business administration, her leadership on the West Hartford Board of Education and involvement with groups like the West Hartford Special Education PTA highlight her community focus.
Since her 2019 election to represent the 19th District, Representative Exum has become a powerful voice in the Connecticut legislature, serving as Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, a member of the Human Services Committee, and Deputy Majority Leader.
She has championed transformative legislation, notably co-authoring HB 5001, “An Act Concerning Children’s Mental Health,” ensuring critical mental health support for children. Her advocacy extends to the disability community, where she introduced legislation in 2021 to expand workforce and career opportunities, creating a groundbreaking disability workforce pipeline.
Beyond legislative achievements, Representative Exum is known for her genuine care and effective action on community concerns. Her personal advocacy for heart health awareness, inspired by the loss of her husband, has driven her to promote coronary calcium scans and save lives.
We also deeply appreciate Representative Exum’s invaluable contributions as Co-Chair of our Transforming Children’s Behavioral Health Policy and Planning Committee. Her empathy, leadership, and relentless pursuit of a more just and equitable world make her an inspiration.
"If I had the opportunity to share a message with other youth, I would tell them how rewarding it is to embrace your authenticity and to share your story. "
Meet Our rising Trailblazer
Oluwaseyi Oluborode
We are thrilled to announce new to this year's 2025 Pathways to Success conference: the Rising Trailblazer Award! This prestigious award recognizes a young changemaker who demonstrates exceptional potential and a strong dedication to driving positive change within their community. It is with great pleasure that we announce Oluwaseyi Oluborode as the inaugural recipient of our 2025 Rising Trailblazer Award.
Oluwaseyi Oluborode’s academic pursuits in Political Science and Urban Studies are deeply rooted in their observable impact on the world. Unlike abstract scientific concepts, these disciplines allow Oluwaseyi to critically examine human relationships and the intricate evolution of society. Her personal experience with limited mobility has been a powerful catalyst, driving her interest in Urban Studies and equipping her with the language to advocate for more accessible environments. This dedication is exemplified in her current research project with a local university professor, where Oluwaseyi is investigating the profound effects of limited transit access on at-risk youth.
Beyond her rigorous academic work, Oluwaseyi demonstrates exceptional leadership and commitment to social change. She holds the esteemed positions of President of her school’s Mock Trial team and Vice President of the Social Justice League. Her active participation also includes student council, the Black Student Union, and the National Honors Society. Oluwaseyi’s volunteer efforts with the Hartford City Mission and consistent attendance at Hartford WFP Town Committee meetings underscore her dedication to civic engagement. Furthermore, she is a key voice in the SpeakUp youth advocacy group and contributes valuable research to the Youth Action Hub. Looking ahead, Oluwaseyi intends to enroll in college as a Political Science major, with the ultimate goal of attending law school, driven by a powerful desire to effect change. Oluwaseyi consistently champions the idea that embracing one’s authenticity and sharing individual stories is a truly rewarding endeavor for all youth.