The youngest
in the room.

Showing up opened doors.

Elijah grew up on the northern East Coast, attended high school in Delaware, and went on to the University of Delaware. He pursued internships, fellowships, and opportunities to meet people doing meaningful work.

In a state where everybody seems to know everybody, he learned that showing up matters. A first impression can start a conversation. Following through can build a relationship.

From intern to chief of staff.

As a Democratic Party intern, Elijah met Marcus Henry during Henry’s run for New Castle County Executive. He became Henry’s campaign manager and helped lead a winning campaign. He went on to become chief of staff for Wilmington City Council, making him one of the youngest to hold the position.

Each opportunity brought new responsibilities, new questions, and more people to learn from. At 25, he often finds himself among the youngest people in those rooms.

What Stayed With Him.

At one event, attendees 30 and under were asked to stand. Elijah stood alongside college students. He saw no other professionals under 30 standing with them.

He wanted more motivated young adults to have a way into government, political campaigns, nonprofits, and community organizing, with people they could turn to for guidance.