Empowering Latina Leadership Alliance

 

To connect and to receive updates, check out our Facebook Group Page.  For more information or sponsorship opportunities, contact: Janessa Calderon, Executive Director, (563) 214-5160. 

Steering Committee Member Spotlight:

Elizabeth Nino

 

Why are you involved with the Empowering Latina Leadership Alliance (ELLA)?

I joined this organization to connect with other inspiring Latinas who have an interest to advocate for women and celebrate our Latina roots. 

 

How have you created impact while serving on the ELLA board? 

As one of the founding board members, I have had the privileged to work side by side with the talented steering committee. I have had the opportunity to help with the planning of several events such as the ELLA Summit, which aimed to empower Latinas in the Quad Cities. 

 

What has been your favorite memory of being involved with the Hispanic Chamber/ELLA?

My favorite ELLA celebration is our annual "Day of the Dead" networking event. This event will bring in 50-100 women who have the opportunity to experience Latina culture. It feels great to be part of a community organization that celebrates diversity. 

Ana Laura Preciado

What is ELLA to you?

ELLA is an inspiring group geared towards future generations to pursue their goals and to encourage them to become better leaders at what they like to do. It is also an affirmation for Hispanic Women in the community to prove that Latinas can develop themselves to become successful professionals, entrepreneurs, and human beings.

Why are you involved with the Empowering Latina Leadership Alliance (ELLA)?

I found ELLA, after I recently moved to the QC area because I wanted to learn more about the Hispanic community in this location.  I was eager to contribute and maintain the roots of my culture, in a different country. I wanted to let other women know that anything is possible regardless of where you come from or what your background is. I wanted other women to know that you can always move forward and embrace challenges. 

How have you created an impact while serving on the ELLA board? 

I created an impact while meeting other amazing woman, outside of my student/work environment and having learned so from them, while teaching them things I learned along my own life journey. When I became a part of the One by One program with Margarita, I was able to help young girls believe in themselves to understand that they can pursue a any professional career they choose. I wanted the young girls to know that they have the capacity to build a great future for their generation. I think that with every event we plan, we give opportunities to young ladies and women to get a sense of how powerful we can be, and I’m sure we have touched lots of minds and hearts with the urge to grow and develop personally and professionally.

 

What has been your favorite memory of being involved with the Hispanic Chamber/ELLA?

My favorite part being involved with ELLA is all the stories you hear and the people you get to meet along the way. I enjoy how thankful the attendee’s area t our events because we created a space for them to speak out, learn, and get inspired. I love the fact that we are planting seeds for future generations and raising our voices in the community.

 

 Isamar Sanchez

 

It is exactly what we our mission/goals are to Empower Latinas to lead!

I would hope that we have hosted events to carry the message of leadership in the community.  We have reached all age groups and demographics with a positive message to lead and support each other in positive way.

Patty Casas

 

I am involved with Empowering Latina Leadership Alliance because it allows us to have an impact on the community. It gives us an opportunity to network and connect with young Latinas and be mentors to let them know that w have a value in the community. Networking gives makes us stronger and more knowledgeable. I believe I have created an impact on young Latinas that are wanting to start new businesses in giving them the confidence that they are enough and that they can do it. I have all good memories being in the ELLA committee but one of my favorites would be  the symposium we attended in Denver last year.

 Montse Ricossa

What is ELLA to you?

To me ELLA is a group of strong, beautiful, encouraging women who support me. Whenever I accomplish the next step or have a question, I know the women in ELLA will always step up and be encouraging. 

Why are you involved with the Empowering Latina Leadership Alliance (ELLA)?

I am involved in ELLA because I feel its important to be involved in different communities and groups. I didn't grow up with many Latina women in my neighborhood, so being surrounded by these empowering Latinas is something I always look forward to. I think knowing the community and helping to come up with different workshops with Latinas is a great feeling. 

What has been your favorite memory of being involved with the Hispanic Chamber/ELLA?