Mitrah Avini

Focus

Mitrah’s policy areas include space policy, broadband internet, workforce policy, AI and the future economy. In the 88th Legislature, her lobbying efforts and testimonies before House and Senate committees helped support the passage of House Bill 3447, creating the Texas Space Commission, and House Bill 9, establishing a $1.5 billion constitutionally-dedicated Broadband Infrastructure Fund.

Prior Work Experience

Mitrah joined Texas 2036 as a policy advisor in September 2022, where she lead the Digital Texas Coalition to expand broadband internet in the state. She brought with her a background in housing, health policy, public affairs, and politics. She was previously a candidate for Austin City Council, where she focused on environmental and housing affordability issues. She was also named an Asia 21 Young Leader by the Asia Society for her commitment to public service and knowledge of the Asia-Pacific region. As part of her work with the Asia Society, she advised a start-up company developing sustainable and compostable hygiene products for school girls in India.

Mitrah completed her undergraduate education at Yale University, where she studied philosophy, political science, ethics and international security, before earning a Master of Science from Oxford University, with a focus on government and policy. Prior to graduate school, Mitrah lived and worked in Manhattan, where she served as a speechwriter, policy advisor and press secretary for a New York City mayoral campaign.

Born and raised in Austin, Mitrah comes from a long line of Texans with a history of commitment to public service. Her great grandfather was appointed Chief of Police to the Panama Canal Zone by President Roosevelt. Her grandmother served the Texas State Legislature for many years before finishing her career with service to the Texas Department of Human Services until retirement.

In her free time, Mitrah enjoys playing equestrian polo, stargazing across Texas and exploring Austin’s arts and cultural scene.