Makayla Amaris Levitt

Congressional Fellow

Discipline: Foreign Policy

Makayla Levitt grew up with a nomadic spirit, living among a mosaic of cultures, countries, and communities, some that mirrored her own, and others in contrast. A true North American, she was raised between the United States and Canada, living in 14 cities across both countries. Despite her wide-ranging travels, she affectionately calls Houston, Texas; Miami and Orlando, Florida; and the DMV area her stumping grounds; Los Angeles, California and Chicago, Illinois also holds a special place in her heart, as places that have shaped her identity and sense of home. She grew up speaking French, and she also speaks Spanish, Portuguese, and Korean. She is colloquially familiar with Wolof and Yiddish and can read Russian. Makayla attended American University, School of International Studies in Washington, D.C. and graduated in 2023 with a BA International Studies and Relations, minor Justice and thematic expertise in East Asia and the Pacific. Further, she graduated from the London School of Economics and Political Science, Department of International Development in London, England and graduated in December 2024 with an MSc International Development and Humanitarian Emergencies. Moreover, Makayla is currently deferred at the University of London, School of Oriental and African Studies, LLM Human Rights, Justice, and Security.  

Makayla remains passionate and steadfast in her commitment to human and civil rights, transitional justice, diplomacy, international law and development, justice for crimes against humanity, conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, conflict stabilization, and Pan-Africanism. She has devoted her life to championing the rights of oppressed communities and advancing the cause of Indigenous peoples across the globe; advocating to amplify voices that have long been marginalized. She grew up surrounded by the principles and practices of international law and human rights, and developed an early fluency in diplomacy, equity, human rights, and global unity. She continues the legacy of African American trailblazers, both familial and historic, carving out her own path as a passionate advocate and forward-thinking leader. Her work reflects a dual mission: to continue to represent African American women in global arenas and to open doors for those who will follow, especially in international politics and law.  

Her professional journey includes roles at the Stono Institute for Freedom, Justice, and Security (SIJFS), where she served as a Research Analyst Assistant; The Levitt Group, LLC, as an Executive Legal Assistant; the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as a Pathways Intern and FOIA Caseworker; the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), as a Student Research Consultant; and the U.S. Department of State (DOS), in the Office of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism. Makayla loves to travel, cook, knit, crochet, enjoy water sports, and break bread with friends and colleagues, though she also values rest as part of a balanced life. She is prepared to do the hard work and global engagement necessary to continue to bring African Americans to the forefront of international politics and diplomacy. Through her continued efforts in education, mentorship, scholarship, and activism, she remains committed to shaping a more equitable and accountable global landscape.  

Makayla plans to pursue both her J.D. and LL.M. degrees. Following her studies, she aims to continue working within the U.S. government and international sector, focusing on both legal and humanitarian affairs. Her dedication to international human rights fuels her ambition to one day serve in a prominent diplomatic or governmental role.