Layla Vengthisane Lahlou
Youth Advocacy Ambassador
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"Legacies of War unearthed a history I didn’t know I carried — one of resilience, pain, and strength within my ancestors. Through their advocacy, my passion for storytelling ignited, and my eyes opened to the power of remembrance and justice. In reading their newsletters and searching for stories of my own, I found purpose in uncovering truths, amplifying silenced voices, and advocating for healing in communities still burdened by war’s legacy. This platform connects people bound by compassion and purpose that forges action, and I am honored to stand alongside those who empower change."
My Story
Layla is from Alexandria, Virginia and is of Lao and Moroccan descent. She has been working with Legacies for 3 years, but has been connected to her Lao roots since childhood. She plays 2 Lao instruments, the Khaen and Khim, and has performed Lao dance with Lao Heritage Foundation for 11 years. Layla is all about representation and models it as Edison High School’s class of 2025 secretary, Fairfax County’s superintendent advisory council, and Legacies of War’s Student Advocacy Ambassador. Layla’s passion for advocacy and humanities intertwines with STEM, and she’s in her third year of her highschool’s Global STEM Program. She also adores anything and everything artsy from guitar to singing to baking cookies!
