Staff

Sophie McGinley is a Labor Policy Analyst at TCI, where she brings her passion for advancing racial and economic justice and her extensive experience in policy research and community engagement to support TCI's mission. A Richmond native, Sophie holds a Bachelor of Science in Planning, Public Policy, and Management from the University of Oregon and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Virginia. With a diverse background spanning the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, she served as a City Planner and Planning Commissioner, leading an award-winning zoning reform initiative focused on expanding housing options and promoting equitable civic processes. At TCI, Sophie conducts rigorous research on labor and economic policies affecting underserved communities, collaborates with stakeholders to drive systemic change, and creates compelling materials to disseminate findings and shift power to communities. Her approach is grounded in respect for the lived experiences of marginalized communities and a belief in participatory decision-making. Sophie is dedicated to amplifying the voices of those most impacted by inequities and working collaboratively to address the root causes of systemic injustice. Outside of TCI, she continues her public service by serving on the City of Richmond's Urban Forestry Commission, walking and biking around her favorite neighborhoods, and spending time with her cats, Loaf and Pogi.

Tsion Tesfaye is TCI's Policy Fellow with a focus on health equity. She brings a deep commitment to advocating for equitable healthcare, immigration, and criminal justice policies. Tsion’s passion for health equity began through her work with The ASLAN Project, a nonprofit that supports cancer treatment in underdeveloped countries, where she continues to assist with fundraising efforts. Originally from Northern Virginia, Tsion's upbringing as an Ethiopian American has shaped her dedication to advancing equity. Her experience sitting in on Delegate Cousin’s constituent meetings at the General Assembly was eye-opening and solidified her belief in the power of state policy advocacy to transform lives. Tsion has a B.A. in Political Science from Virginia Commonwealth University and is continuing her education through VCU’s Minority Political Leadership Institute.

Yasmin is a woman of faith, wife, and proud mother of two. She’s thrilled to continue her nonprofit journey as...