10/05/2026
Meet the incredible leaders behind this year’s Beyond Bama team!🐘❤️
Swipe through to get to know our Team Lead and Assistant Team Leads, from where they call home to why they are so passionate about alternative breaks, service, and cultural immersion.
Whether you are curious about what a Beyond Bama trip looks like, want to know how to get involved, or are looking for inspiration to step outside your comfort zone, these are the faces leading the charge.
Meet Team Lead Neila Nene!
Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama
Major: Nursing (Junior)
Why Beyond Bama: “I’ve been a part of Beyond Bama since my freshman year because it has consistently given me the resources and platform to serve in dynamic new places, immerse myself in unfamiliar cultures, and grow through every single journey.”
Why You Should Join: “I think people should join because not only do you get to give back to so many incredible communities, but you also make unforgettable memories with amazing people along the way. I love how Beyond Bama serves as a melting pot for UA students to collaborate on meaningful service, learn from each other’s unique life experiences, and genuinely enhance their entire college journey.”
Meet Assistant Team Lead Kaila Simmons!
Major/Minor: Public Health (AMP/Pre Med) with an African American Studies minor
Hometown: McKinney, Texas
Why Beyond Bama: “I did Beyond Bama to make an impact in communities other than my own and what I was familiar with! It was amazing to serve a different community with new friends while learning about their culture, customs, and traditions.”
Why You Should Join: You should participate in a Beyond Bama trip to not only serve others in a larger capacity, but be able to grow in your teamwork, communication, and leadership skills!
Meet Assistant Team Lead Fernando Salinas!
Hometown: Comayagua, Honduras
Major/Minor: Aerospace Engineering with a French minor
Why Beyond Bama: “I participated in Beyond Bama because I am passionate about serving others and giving back to communities! I enjoy learning about different cultures, understanding the challenges people face, and connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. As an int
