Alex Levy is a civic engagement strategist with over a decade of experience designing participatory programs and facilitating workshops that bridge divides. She co-leads PDLA’s efforts to advance civic assemblies by piloting experiential models of democratic decision-making, and leads national learning programs at Better Together America that help Civic Hub leaders across the country connect, share knowledge, and scale local solutions. As a Braver Angels moderator, she facilitates conversations across political differences to foster trust, curiosity, and mutual understanding.

Alex’s domestic work is rooted in more than a decade of international experience supporting civic and youth development around the world. Her global journey began with the Peace Corps in Namibia, followed by work at FHI 360 supporting programs across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Most recently she led World Learning’s Civic Engagement, Action, and Leadership practice.

She holds a Master’s in Middle East Studies and Conflict Resolution from George Washington University and a Bachelor’s in Public Policy and Ethnic Conflict from the University of Michigan.

Melina Perez hails from South Central LA and is Co-Lead at PDLA where she drives strategic direction and champions efforts to strengthen democracy and promote civic engagement. With a background in public policy and international affairs, she brings extensive experience in advocacy and strategic engagement. Melina is passionate about advancing democracy reform initiatives that build inclusive political participation. A first generation college graduate, she holds a B.A. from UC Santa Barbara and Master of Public Policy from the Hertie School and is committed to fostering systemic change through participatory governance and grassroots engagement.

Wayne Liebman is a physician, playwright, and community organizer. In 2020, he founded Public Access Democracy to advocate for a democratic system more representative of, and responsive to, its citizens. Public Access Democracy seeks to invest political power in deliberative citizen groups chosen by lot -- just as juries are. As a result of Public Access Democracy’s advocacy efforts, the city of Petaluma, California, has convened the first municipal citizens’ assembly in the state, to recommend a plan for the future use of its municipal fairground--a contentious issue that had been plaguing the city for several years. In 2022, he co-founded PDLA with the mission of catalyzing civic assemblies in L.A.