Jiayi Zhou is a second year graduate student from Shanghai, China. She pursued Graphic Design as an undergraduate at Gallaudet University. Known as Zhou Jiayi (周 佳艺) in China, her name means excellence in art. Jiayi is very passionate about art, Chinese culture, and loves to try new things. Jiayi feels that each time she starts a new painting or drawing, it opens a soundless dialogue with her inner self. Each piece of artwork is a combination of strong personal feelings, vision, and experiences. She will use art in her development work with Deaf people in the future.

Jiayi spent her summer touring France and also participating in MIUSA's Women's Institute on Leadership and Disability in Oregon where young women leaders from around the world came together to build leadership skills, create new visions, and strengthen their international network of support.

Jiayi participated in Mobility International's Institute on Leadership and Disability. Check out their empowering video.

Jiayi is currently doing her practicum work at the National Endowment of the Arts.