My name is Michelle Carrillo, and I’m the founder of Arielle’s Light—and most importantly, Arielle’s mom. This organization was created in honor of my daughter, whose vibrant spirit and deep compassion continue to guide everything I do.

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I’ve spent over two decades in the beauty and personal care industry, working both as a chemist and in sales. During the last year of her life, Arielle worked alongside me, bringing her creativity and heart into every space we shared. I studied Chemistry at UCLA and have always believed in the power of science—but through losing Arielle, I’ve come to understand the even greater power of connection, access, and emotional support.

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I didn’t enter this work with a background in nonprofits—I came into it fueled by love, grief, and a deep desire to help others. That’s what Arielle would have wanted.

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Through Arielle’s Light, I’m committed to helping young people feel seen, supported, and never alone. As a hands-on board leader, I focus on growing the mission, building partnerships, and connecting families to care..

My name is Arnold Carrillo, and I bring a lifelong commitment to service—first through two decades in the military, and now through a career in nursing and community health. I emigrated from the Philippines to the U.S. as a teenager, and that experience shaped my dedication to purpose, resilience, and giving back.

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After serving as an Artillery Officer in the U.S. Marine Corps and later the California Army National Guard, I retired from military service in 2013. Inspired to continue helping others in a new way, I became a registered nurse and began working at Saint John’s Regional Medical Center during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. I now serve as the Nursing Manager for the hospital’s step-down intensive care unit, where I lead with both compassion and calm under pressure.

 

As Treasurer of Arielle’s Light—and as Arielle’s dad—I carry this work close to my heart. I hope to ensure this organization remains financially strong and mission-driven so that more young people can access the mental health support they need and deserve.

My name is Jeffrey Joya and I bring a deep commitment to youth well-being through a dual role as a high school teacher and a dedicated advocate for adolescent mental health. With years of experience working directly with students, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges young people face and the transformative impact that access to quality mental health care can have.

 

As a member of the Board of Directors of Arielle's light, I hope to contribute valuable insight into the day-to-day realities of adolescents' lives, helping guide the organization’s mission with compassion and a grounded understanding of their needs. 

 

I hope to continue building bridges between education and mental health support, and ensuring that every young person has the tools and resources to thrive both in and out of the classroom.