Our Story

Empowering Latinas Leadership Academy was launched in 2010 to specifically meet the unmet needs of Latina professionals in the Central Ohio area. Since then, we have supported over 100 Latinas in Central Ohio through our Mentorship Program. We continue to evolve to support the unique needs of our community.

Our Approach

We believe in the power of you, me, and the collective us, to create and generate a positive future. As such, with the help of strategic collaborations and partnerships, we aim to promote the development of Latina talent. Our programming contributes significantly to the overall well-being and future of our community and city.

Our Team

  • Lillian Morales-Laster

    Executive Director

    Lily is a graduate of Cycle 7 (2016) and joined the ELLA team in 2018. She is a passionate advocate for Latina leadership and community impact. Mentorship and lifting up other mujeres have been at the heart of her journey and believes in creating spaces where Latinas feel empowered to lead, thrive, and take up space unapologetically.

  • Valeria Moreno

    Program Coordinator

    Valeria is a graduate of Cycle 14 and joined staff in 2024. Now a board member, she supports the mission of ELLA by connecting women to each other and to our program.

  • Jen Murillo

    Social Media Coordinator

    Jen is a graduate of Cycle 10. She joined the ELLA team in 2019 to oversee all creative projects. She is a professional photographer. See her work here. Through her passion of the arts she empowers our community.