Jestin is a first-generation college student, who joined Burness in 2019. Jestin brings with him years of experience working directly with youth and on behalf of youth in Texas and across the country. Jestin worked for the Boys & Girls club as a youth development specialist, site director, and area director. In these roles, he developed programming to aid youth development and managed multiple state-licensed programs. After leaving the Boys & Girls Club, Jestin joined the American Heart Association as a Project Coordinator to support their advocacy work on issues combating childhood obesity and building a tobacco-free future. While in graduate school Jestin also worked at the University of Texas at Austin, supporting the OnRamps program which works to help students get acclimated to higher education through dual credit courses at local high schools.

Jestin received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, studying political science, communications, and public policy & administration. It was in the classroom and behind the debate podium that Jestin found a passion for public speaking and government advocacy. Growing up in Dallas, Texas Jestin learned to embrace different cultures and developed a love for the great outdoors. In his spare time, he enjoys reading poetry, trying new foods, and exploring art museums.