Our Operations Team
Joanna Silva-Velez
Operations Lead
Joanna Silva-Velez is a dynamic professional with a passion for project management and a commitment to supporting underrepresented communities in business, she brings a unique blend of creative insight and technical expertise to her work. Her breadth of experience has allowed her to hone her event production skills, develop frameworks for managing processes across departments, and demonstrate her versatility and leadership. This coupled with Joanna’s firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by POC and WOC entrepreneurs, she is poised to support LEEAF’s operations team and mission to foster equity.
Mega Jewell
Mega Jewell brings over a decade of creativity, strategic thinking, and experience in B2B, B2C, broadcast, social, and digital media. Having been a local television news reporter & anchor, Mega is uniquely positioned to support her client’s growth through authentic storytelling and data-driven strategies. From working in public relations firms and generating $1.11 million to founding her own consulting firm, Mega’s work has garnered recognition from esteemed media outlets such as the Los Angeles Times, Real Simple, and other prominent channels. As the Strike Team Manager at LEEAF, Mega supports her team in our EMI academy by making a tangible difference in the lives of entrepreneurs by implementing social media strategies, SEO optimization, and website development.
Strike Team Manager
Shaza Butt
Marketing Lead
Shaza Butt is a driven marketing lead with a mission to create impactful campaigns and initiatives. With a strategic mindset and a creative flair, Shaza excels in developing and executing marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences. Passionate about supporting entrepreneurs of color, Shaza is committed to using her platform to amplify diverse voices and perspectives. Her experience and her desire to learn bring a forward-thinking approach to every project, leveraging innovative tactics to achieve results. With a dedication to inclusivity and a knack for driving engagement, Shaza is poised to support LEEAF in making a significant impact, driving growth, and fostering connections within our communities. Shaza will also be overseeing the implementation of LEEAF’s EMI academy marketing campaign, creating the collateral needed to reach our targeted audience.
Jorge Feliz Valenzuela
Research Team Lead
Jorge Feliz Valenzuela is a visionary research team lead dedicated to driving meaningful insights and innovation. With a strategic mindset and a passion for discovery, Jorge excels in guiding LEEAF’s research team to uncover valuable findings and drive impactful outcomes. Committed to supporting underrepresented communities and entrepreneurs of color, Jorge leverages research to address pressing issues and effect positive change. Experienced in navigating complex research landscapes, champions collaboration in every project, nurturing a team environment that fosters innovation and breakthroughs. Jorge supports LEEAF’s EMI academy by
Our Strike Team
Jamillette Mendoza
Jamillette Mendoza is a fourth-year California State University, Fullerton student studying Information Systems. She has hands-on experience in digital marketing and customer relationships through her internships with Social Medusa Media and Cocodealers as part of the 2023 LEEAF cohort. Her diverse skill set includes C#, SQL, and business analytics, with a strong proficiency in Excel for analyzing complex data sets to drive informed decision-making. She has a proven track record in administrative work and market research, contributing to increased client engagement and business growth through her strategic insights and dedication to excellence.
Technology & Operations
As an immigrant in the United States, he belongs to the distinguished 10 percent who have achieved higher education, a testament to his unwavering dedication and perseverance. With an impressive 11-year tenure as a Medical Assistant, including five years as an Assistant Manager, he has honed his skills in healthcare while demonstrating leadership and commitment to excellence. Growing up in Temple City, where he represented less than 5 percent of the Hispanic community, he faced limited opportunities. This early experience ignited his passion for advocating for the Hispanic community. His move to El Monte exposed him to the injustices and challenges faced by the undocumented Hispanic population, further deepening his resolve to make a difference. Transitioning to a career in Business Administration Management, he is now focused on learning how he can contribute to the local Los Angeles BIPOC and undocumented business owners. His goal is to help break the speech barrier for the Hispanic community, ensuring that everyone has a voice and the opportunity to succeed. His participation in the LEEAF Fellowship program has equipped him with positive solutions to support low-income populations. Currently, as part of the Strike Team, he is educating himself in Marketing and Finance, striving to transcend excellence, promote diversity, and break boundaries for his community. His journey is driven by a commitment to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Reggie Mata
Finance | Marketing
Josue Ventura
Josue Ventura is a seasoned customer service professional and supervisor with over ten years of experience in the hospitality and leisure industry. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, focusing on Management from Cal State University, Los Angeles, Josue excels in leadership, communication, and cultivating long-term client relationships. Driven by a passion for positive change and equitable opportunities, Josue is committed to community assistance through involvement with the Los Angeles Economic Equity Accelerator & Fellowship (LEEAF). His dedication to making a meaningful impact in our community highlights a strong commitment to economic justice and the empowerment of all community members.
Human Resources | Fianance
Natalie Turcios
With 7 years of experience in administrative assistance, Natalie has established her own small business as a hybrid assistant, providing both virtual and local support to small businesses in her city. Her passion for empowering women led her to join LEEAF, a program dedicated to helping small businesses succeed. This experience inspired her to start her own company to one day support other students like herself. Natalie's 7-year tenure in the fashion industry ignited a passion for styling and event planning. She is an expert in project and event management, and social media content creation and management, and possesses advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace. Known for her leadership and collaborative synergy, Natalie maintains composure in high-pressure situations and demonstrates exceptional technological proficiency and web aptitude. Through her experiences, Natalie aims to create vibrant, supportive communities and empower women to achieve their dreams.
Technology & Operations | Marketing
Ollin De Santos
Ollin De Los Santos is a young professional dedicated to etching their own path. Her passion for the well-being of others comes from a background of majoring in Sociology and minoring in Criminal Justice at the California State University. Here, she not only graduated but also gained expertise surrounding data visualizations, data analysis, and research, serving as a valuable asset for future roles. Their versatile skill set applies to a wide array of areas, such as project management, graphic design, social media management, case management, and program implementation. She continues to demonstrate her passion by joining LEEAF, whose equitable opportunities in the business world mirror her personal values.
Human Resources
Zenaida Tiscareno
Zenaida Tiscareno is a determined young woman who grew up in a community of limited opportunities. She's an aspiring entrepreneur committed to taking any opportunity that will help her elevate her skills and figure out what she’s capable of. As a recent graduate from Cal State LA, majoring in Business Management, her motive is to be the backbone of any job she pursues. Ideally, she hopes to eventually implement the skills she learns from her current jobs and be a skilled worker in the fashion industry. She genuinely enjoys supporting businesses, her community, and individuals. Now, as she recently joined the Strike Team, it makes her feel that this is the start of a new beginning. Her drive is to create a better life for herself and those who surround her. She will continue to try her best in everything she does in hopes of one day inspiring others in her community to be an example that if they pursue anything with pure intentions, the universe will repay them.
Technology & Operations | Marketing
Our Programming Team
Kat Ramseyer
Sr. Community Manager
Kat Ramseyer an experienced community management professional known for her adeptness in navigating ambiguity and driving results. With a track record of success, Kat has spearheaded initiatives to elevate communication strategies, implemented efficient processes in marketing and communications, and managed projects for organizations like UNITE-LA's National Strategic Partnerships portfolio. Her ability to excel in ambiguous situations, coupled with their strategic thinking and project management skills, positions her as a valuable asset in fostering the communities LEEAF supports. Passionate about empowering individuals and fostering inclusivity, Kat joins the programming team in their dedication to creating engaging environments where community members can thrive and supports the coordination efforts of academy course scheduling, Growth Facilitator caseload management, and Resident Advisor scheduling.
Isaac Silva
Isaac Silva embodies the essence of perseverance and community stewardship, his journey as a first-generation immigrant fueling an unwavering commitment to empower and uplift. A staunch advocate for economic justice, he channels his creative ingenuity into pioneering solutions and crafting captivating narratives that transcend boundaries and resonate with diverse hearts and minds. With an unwavering gaze fixed upon a horizon of equity and inclusion, Isaac stands as a beacon of hope, steadfast in his mission to catalyze positive transformation within the vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles communities.
Lead Growth Facilitator
Gabriela Flores
Gabriela Flores is a driven young professional with a diverse background in the nonprofit sector and tech industry. She excels in project management, sourcing, and Excel. As the first in her family to graduate from UC Riverside with a Bachelor's in Education, Society, and Human Development. She is passionate about giving back to her community. A proud Los Angeles native, she is dedicated to providing resources and support to uplift those around her. In addition to running a small business, she is currently participating in a digital marketing fellowship at COOP Careers. Gabriela is excited to bring her skills to LEEAF, where she is committed to making a positive impact on small businesses and the community.
Program Coordinator
Antonia Castro
Growth Facilitator
Antonia Castro stands as a steadfast beacon of social advocacy and community service, her unwavering dedication evident throughout her illustrious career. With a rich tapestry of experience woven across three non-profit organizations, she possesses an intimate understanding of the nuanced landscape of challenges and triumphs within Los Angeles' philanthropic sphere. For Antonia, her vocation transcends mere occupation; it embodies a profound calling, igniting her fervent passion for catalyzing tangible change and enhancing lives. Firmly anchored in her commitment to empower and uplift, she pledges her unwavering time and energy to bolster the impactful endeavors of LEEAF, embodying the very essence of service with purpose.
Erica Harris
Growth Facilitator
Erica Harris is a serial entrepreneur with over 20 years of business experience and training. Her current business, TOSOC Incorporated, has been awarded over $100,000 in grant funding and financing for its two business lines: Compton Soul and Asali. When not working on her business she is mentoring, coaching small businesses, and staying actively engaged in the Compton, Watts, and South LA communities. She is a proud Comptonite and alumnus of UC Davis.
Daniel Luna
Daniel Luna is a skilled professional adept at managing and maintaining nationwide client accounts while providing technical and financial support in Spanish. His responsibilities include setting up new accounts, balancing client portfolios, and offering individualized support to ensure client satisfaction. Daniel collaborates directly with company stakeholders to provide solutions and customized features while staying adaptable to evolving software changes. With his strong communication skills, he effectively trains and adjusts communication techniques across various platforms to meet the diverse needs of clients.
Growth Facilitator
John Parsons
Growth Facilitator
John Parsons is a cultural anthropologist delving into the intricate realms of human behavior and moral complexities. His scholarly pursuits have traversed the delicate balance between morality, narrative, and the often tumultuous dynamics of violence. With an unwavering gaze fixed upon the ethical landscapes of small businesses, John's current research endeavors illuminate the nuanced experiences of transformation and expansion within these vibrant economic ecosystems. Through his insightful investigations, he sheds light on the intricate tapestry of ethics, offering profound insights into the ever-evolving interplay between individuals, communities, and the moral dilemmas that shape their collective journeys.
Marisol Samayoa
Growth Facilitator
Marisol Samayoa is a proud native of Los Angeles, and wears multiple hats as a dedicated local realtor and small business owner, her identity as a Latina infusing her endeavors with vibrant cultural richness. Rooted in her upbringing, Marisol's fervent commitment to community growth and prosperity has been a guiding force since her earliest days. With boundless enthusiasm and unwavering determination, she eagerly embraces the opportunity to extend her hand of support to her beloved community through her involvement with LEEAF. In partnership with an impassioned team sharing her vision and values, Marisol anticipates a future where individuals, businesses, and neighborhoods flourish, embodying the very essence of collective empowerment and shared success.
Patty Flores
Growth Facilitator
Patty Flores, a seasoned professional in communications and marketing, boasts a rich history of leadership within Fortune 100 companies. With a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from UC Santa Barbara as her cornerstone, she has spent the past seventeen years at Southern California Edison, orchestrating groundbreaking events and cultivating impactful partnerships. Inspired by the need for trusted vendors, she recently launched Festively, her own event-planning company. A proud Angeleno, Patty thrives on exploring her city and embracing life's adventures with gusto.
Tiffany Heard
Tiffany Heard is a proud graduate of Howard University where she obtained a Masters of Social Work. She has currently traveled the world to over 20 countries and gives back selflessly by volunteering abroad. Ms. Heard is a content creator who discusses and documents her solo vacations on the travel blog. Tiffany is the author of Hues of HBCUs and Hues of Africa: Journey Between the Lines. She was inspired to create these books because coloring calms her soul, she loves HBCUs and aspires to globe-trot throughout the continent of Africa as a traveling Social Worker.
Growth Facilitator
Ana Rodriguez
Growth Facilitator
Ana Rodriguez, a visionary entrepreneur and founder of Enchanting Crafts by Ana, possesses over five years of business acumen. Fluent in Spanish, her expertise lies in fostering meaningful connections with customers, empowering the small business community, and orchestrating seamless retail operations. Ana excels in crafting impactful social media strategies, generating revenue, and creating original content. With a keen eye for detail, she optimizes technical elements for increased SEO and drives conversions through dynamic campaigns. As a mentor, Ana coaches top talent and ensures operational excellence, from managing payroll to maintaining visual standards. Her unwavering commitment to excellence propels Enchanting Crafts by Ana to ever greater heights.
Celeste Shields
Resident Advisor Technology & Operations
Celeste Shields founder of Celestial Operations, is a bilingual operations expert with a multifaceted background in project and program management, strategy development, and operations. Her passion for small businesses and talent development sets her apart as a dedicated advocate for entrepreneurial success. Celeste leverages her expertise to assist companies and small businesses in the launch stage, guiding them to reach and exceed their goals with a keen focus on operational excellence. Before establishing her own firm, Celeste played a pivotal role with the Annenberg Foundation, where she managed programs for the social impact initiative, PledgeLA. This initiative, driven by a mission to increase access to Los Angeles' tech and venture capital sectors, aligns with Celeste's commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in business. Her dedication to small businesses, combined with her talent development initiatives, underscores her commitment to driving positive change and fostering sustainable growth in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Sebastian De Vivo, PhD
Dr. Sebastian De Vivo co-founder of List Ventures and Sophist Capital, two organizations focused on inclusive access to capital for women, immigrant and minority entrepreneurs. In this role, he has facilitated over $50M in debt and venture capital investments to portfolio companies. He is an advisor with the LA Regional Network SBDC, supports Access to Capital for LEEAF at Cal State Los Angeles, and serves as Treasurer for Stanford Angels and Entrepreneurs of So Cal. In addition, he has worked on several initiatives focused on building inclusive ecosystems nationwide and a published portfolio analysis like “Access to Capital Among Minority-Owned Startups in Los Angeles”, and the publication of the first granular data source on Access to Capital among minority-owned small firms in Los Angeles. Sebastian received his PhD in Classics from Stanford University.
Resident Advisor Access to Capital & Finance
Diana Matamoros
Diana Matamoros, founder of The Latina Upskill Project, draws upon nearly a decade of experience in human resources and talent development. Diana is on a mission to unleash human potential and drive positive social change through work. As the founder of The Latina Upskill Project, a social impact initiative, Diana is dedicated to empowering Latinas by providing them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive not only in the workplace but also in all aspects of life. In her role as a human resources professional at the City of Los Angeles, Diana takes the lead in designing and delivering training and employee development programs. Her initiatives contribute to fostering a workplace culture characterized by continuous learning, diversity, and inclusion. Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Diana is an active steering committee member and LEEAF Alumna. Her commitment to this role is driven by a strong mission: creating workplaces that are more equitable and inclusive, where every individual has the opportunity to grow and succeed. Diana's multifaceted contributions exemplify her dedication to shaping a future where talent is nurtured, potential is unlocked, and inclusivity is at the forefront of organizational success.
Resident Advisor Human Resources
Chris Lam
Chris Lam, founder of Chris Lam Connects, is dedicated to simplifying the world of digital marketing for small business owners. Her mission is clear: streamline their efforts, boost online presence, and ultimately increase revenue. Her services encompass a wide range of options, including on-demand consulting, content marketing strategy intensives (VIP Days), audits, and live or recorded workshops. This diverse skill set allows her to make a substantial impact on multiple businesses simultaneously. With over 18 years of experience spanning digital marketing, social media, and nonprofit development, Chris Lam is a seasoned professional who excels even in highly regulated industries. She has a track record of directing social media programs for industry giants like Green Dot and Fandango. Her expertise also extends to her work at Blaze PR, where she specializes in the promotion of travel, hospitality, food, and lifestyle brands. Chris Lam's multifaceted experience
Resident Advisor Digital Marketing