VOIS Fellows are community-rooted leaders with lived experience navigating some of the most urgent challenges facing Northwest Arkansas. Trained in advocacy, public narrative, and community leadership, they bring firsthand insight into issues like housing insecurity, low wages, healthcare gaps, and structural poverty—along with a deep commitment to shaping more just and equitable solutions.
OUR FELLOWS
MEET THE FELLOWS
Malath Alarnosi
Immigrant & Refugee Uplifting Women Economic Empowerment
Malath Alarnosi is an Iraqi American advocate and Voice Fellow with Circle NWA, committed to expanding opportunities and resources for immigrant and refugee communities. Based in Northwest Arkansas, she leads initiatives that promote mental well-being, economic empowerment, and cultural belonging. Rooted in her own lived experience, Malath is especially passionate about uplifting women, ensuring they have the tools, support, and voice to thrive in their new communities.
Carmen Gonzalez
Mental Health Disability Rights Affordable Housing
Carmen Gonzalez is a community advocate based in Springdale, Arkansas. A proud mother of three, she is passionate about building a better future for families in Northwest Arkansas through greater access to mental health care, disability rights, and affordable housing. Inspired by her own lived experience, Carmen uses her voice to uplift others who are too often left out of the conversation. Through advocacy and storytelling, she is committed to shaping more inclusive policies and ensuring that those most affected by systemic barriers are not only seen—but heard.