Michael Agyin

Summer Speaker

The son of West African immigrant parents, Michael Kwame Agyin was raised in Compton, California. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Sociology from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) where he was later awarded the CSUN National Center on Deafness Outstanding Humanitarian Award. After earning his degree, he was determined to break the barrier between the Deaf and hearing worlds, to become a bridge builder for youth of color with disabilities. He became a job coach for the Marriott Foundation Bridges Program for youth with disabilities and he was also appointed Outreach Coordinator for "Deafestival," a citywide event to raise awareness, promote pride, and recognize the accomplishments of the Deaf community. Michael spent four years on the Youth Leadership Governing Board of the National Youth Leadership Network and has been appointed by the governor to the State Independent Living Council. He currently works as a Behavior Analyst for Deaf youth with Autism, Behavior Therapist with Inclusive Education and Community Partnership, Disabily Rights Advocate, Inculsion and Accessibility Consultant, Founder of Compton ASL Club, Activist and Tedx speaker. Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson honored Agyin for his work as a Deaf Awareness Advocate, saying that "Michael is an impressive role-model, not just for the deaf community, but for everyone."