Florida Self-Advocates Network'D
FL SAND
Meet the FL SAND Fellows
Michelle Zeman, Orlando
About me
Michelle was diagnosed with pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified when she was three years old and was considered “borderline severe.” Despite being told she would never be a functioning member of society, she earned her Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with an emphasis in autism and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2016. She discovered the value of self-advocacy and activism through her career in behavior analysis and her time in Partners in Policymaking (she is a 2023 graduate). She is passionate about policy change in mental health services and disability training for all community workers.
Chatequa Pinkston, Tampa
About me
Chatequa has the heart to encourage individuals with disabilities through her life experiences. She was born with cerebral palsy. She earned a Master of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of South Florida. She is an entrepreneur, an ordained minister, an author of several self-published books, and a public speaker. Chatequa is the founder of Hidden Treasures Ministries, which works to empower people with disabilities through collaboration with churches. She also serves on several disability-related boards.
Amanda "Mandy" Ranochak, Orlando
About me
Amanda "Mandy" Ranochak is a founding member and former president of MAGICAL Self Advocates, FL SAND’s self-advocacy group in Greater Orlando. Born legally blind and later diagnosed as autistic, Mandy began her journey in self-advocacy after a friend tricked her into presenting an "About Me Box" at a self-advocacy conference in Rhode Island during college. A graduate of Partners in Policymaking (PIP) 2024 and recipient of PIP's Alan C. Wesley Award, she holds an associate's degree in advertising from Johnson & Wales University. Mandy also blogs for "The Mighty," works as an administrative assistant for a social services agency, and creates TikToks for United Against Poverty Orlando in her spare time.
Katie Kaiser, Deland
About me
Katie Kaiser was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2014. Since her diagnosis, she has dedicated herself to advocating for individuals on the spectrum who may not have a voice to speak for themselves. Katie has volunteered with multiple special needs groups, serves as a team lead for Capernaum Young Life, and coaches special needs buddies at her church, Journey. She also works as a preschool teacher for Head Start. Her advocacy stems from a desire to help people better understand autism and support those within the community.
Rachel Robinson, Fort Myers
About me
Rachel has more than 20 years of experience as a caregiver for an autistic child, now an accomplished young adult. Passionate about supporting the differently-abled community, she educates families on resources that enhance daily living. Rachel shares a personal connection to the need for support, having relied on it herself to overcome challenges. She holds degrees in computerized business systems and computer science, along with certifications in American Sign Language and Microsoft Office technical support. Rachel was a key leader in Wings and Prayers, an inclusive worship ministry for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her mission is to empower others by providing resources and support to help them live fulfilling, accessible lives.
Denise Prehay, Miami
About me
Denise is a lifelong advocate who began her work at the grassroots level in Florida and has expanded her efforts nationally. She collaborates with several organizations, including Parent to Parent, the Center for Independent Living, the Mailman Center at the University of Miami, and the Advocacy Network on Disabilities. Her mission is to help individuals and their families become better informed, offering hope and support to help them reach their full potential. Denise finds her advocacy work liberating and full of personal growth, but more importantly, she is inspired by the real possibilities of independence for others. She also has a passion for fashion and interior design. Being featured in The Bold Beauty Project allowed her to blend these interests with her advocacy, highlighting the beauty found in both. This experience continues to fuel her desire to pursue other missions and initiatives that raise awareness and promote inclusion within the communities she serves.
Christy Shultz, Punta Gorda
About me
Christy was diagnosed with spastic triplegia at 18 months old. Doctors told her parents the diagnosis would be "more than a little, but less than severe." Cerebral palsy has its challenges for Christy, but she has prevailed. She holds a master's degree in social work. Cerebral palsy has taught Christy the importance of self-advocacy. Christy enjoys working with those with disabilities and teaching them the importance of advocating for themselves. She has worked as a youth transition coordinator for Project SEARCH and has been a leader for the Able Trust's Youth Leadership Forum. She's currently a substitute teacher. While not in the classroom, Christy enjoys spending time with her four-year-old nephew, going to the beach or reading.
Elcana Jean-Pierre, Miami
About me
Elcana was born in Haiti and came to the United States at age 12 with family members after a difficult journey that included a two-year stay at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base following interception by the U.S. Coast Guard. Upon arrival, she didn't attend school right away and did not speak English. Throughout school years, she experienced bullying but became a strong self-advocate, beginning with individualized education program meetings in high school. While attending Miami Dade College, she founded a club focused on disabilities and maintained a clear goal of building a career in social work. She earned a master's in social work in 2021 and currently works as a disability consultant for a nonprofit organization. She is a Partner's in Policy Making graduate and received PIP's Alan C. Wesley Award in 2025. Outside of work, she enjoys reading and is the parent of a seven-year-old son.
Past FL SAND Fellows
Jason Hahr,
Ocala
Samantha Lebron, Seffner
Amanda Baker, Tallahassee
Beyssa Buil,
Miramar
Arizona Jenkins, Tampa
Nicole Coratti,
Naples
Shelby Stoner, Clearwater
Eddie Hall,
Lakeland
Matthew Walzer, Jacksonville
Laura Minutello, Tallahassee
Christine Rudd, Orlando
Patrick D'Arcy, Orlando