KELLY MANGIARACINA
CSEC Policy and Program Manager for King County Superior Court - Juvenile Court
Kelly coordinates the King County CSEC Task Force, bringing together youth-serving professionals committed to ending the sex trafficking of children in our community. Additionally, she provides free, trauma-informed training to professionals and the wider community, aiming to increase knowledge, raise awareness, and support prevention efforts.
If you had to choose a single word that captures your current approach to leadership, what would it be and why? Share a brief anecdote or turning point this past year that illustrates why this word resonates with you.
When I was hired in July 2013 to help coordinate the King County CSEC Task Force, my résumé reflected my experience in building collaboration within the justice system, working collectively for social change, and advocating for youth and families. At the same time, I had a significant opportunity for growth in my understanding of trafficking, commercial sexual exploitation, and gender-based violence.
Almost immediately, I was mentored by phenomenal women—cis and trans, survivors and allies—who took a chance on me, offering their trust and support. I believe that my candor and willingness to acknowledge their expertise over my own laid the foundation for not just effective working relationships, but deeply impactful friendships.
I was quickly immersed in training, knowledge, and a deeper understanding that sex trafficking is part of the broader continuum of gender-based violence. I also came to realize that we cannot end trafficking without addressing systemic issues such as income inequality, housing justice, sexism, racism, and the growing anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in this country.
Fortunately, here in Washington State—especially in King County—we recognize the fundamental human rights of all people, regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or faith. Everyone who has experienced commercial sexual exploitation or trafficking is worthy and deserving of safety, support, and compassion.
Whenever I conduct community trainings or presentations, I’m often asked, “What do you do for self-care?” While I’m incredibly fortunate to have a strong personal support system of friends and family, the real answer is that I am privileged to work alongside an extraordinary professional support system. I am truly supported by my employer, my supervisor, my colleagues, and my incredible partners in this work across so many organizations.
For me, leadership means admitting what I don’t know and seeking expertise from those who do—always striving for greater understanding. I can do better, be better, try harder—because life is an opportunity for growth, and I never want to stop learning, evolving, and working toward a better world.
I’m grateful to have found a career I am passionate about—one where I know I’m making a difference. More than that, I am fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented, hardworking, and dedicated change-makers—people who not only transform lives but have profoundly impacted my own.