Rooted in Culture. Powered by Community.
A space created for Latinas, by Latinas—where storytelling, leadership, and healing take center stage.
Latina Voices Institute is more than an event series, it’s a growing intergenerational movement grounded in cultura, connection, and change. We center Latina voices while welcoming allies who believe in representation, equity, and community-driven impact.
about us
Where Cultura Meets Connection
- Representation is power
- Healing is collective
- Visibility fuels transformation
Meet the Founder
Dr. Mary Margaret Carrillo, DLS
Dr. Mary Margaret Carrillo (Doctora MMC) is a nationally recognized Latina scholar, educator, and community leader dedicated to elevating Latina leadership through education, cultura, and storytelling.
With more than 20 years of experience across higher education and nonprofit leadership, she founded the Latina Voices Institute to create spaces where Latinas can grow academically, professionally, and personally. She is the visionary behind the Latina Voices Forum and Amplify series, which provide mentorship, networking, and leadership development opportunities for Latinas across Texas and beyond.
Her research and global presentations center on how cultural storytelling shapes Latina identity, education, and community building. Deeply rooted in her San Antonio familia and community, her work is driven by a lifelong commitment to building pathways for future Latina generations.
Dr. Mary Margaret Carrillo’s vision is one rooted in equity, belonging, and possibility: a world where Latina voices are not only heard, but centered.
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Founding Partners
Latina Voices Institute was made possible by the creative labor, shared values, and visionary leadership of three inaugural founding partners—each Latina-owned and rooted in purpose:
Hola Luz Creative Studio
Founded by Colombian immigrant Natalia Gaitan, Hola Luz uses storytelling and strategy to build bold brands that help Latinas and women of color get paid and be seen.
Instagram: @holaluzcreative
Website: holaluzcreative.com
Latina Dreamer Apparel
Founded by Salvadoran-American creative Neely Mancia, Latina Dreamer Apparel celebrates Latina resilience and pride through intentional fashion. Neely also leads community outreach for LVI, bridging stories and changemakers.
Instagram: @latinadreamerapparel
Website: latinadreamerapparel.com
DEZYNR
San Antonio-based creative Nadia Ramon turns clay into cultural storytelling. Her handmade jewelry honors Latina heritage and lived experience—celebrating identity, pride, and sisterhood.
Instagram: @dezynr_
Website: dezynr.shop
Meet Our 2026 Guides
Each year, Latina Voices Institute invites a team of Latina experts, creatives, and educators to serve as guides throughout our events and workshops. Together, they represent our five pillars: Healing, Cultura, Storytelling, Education, and Wellness.
2026 Latina Voices Guides
Health and Wellness Guide
Bilingual board-certified health and wellness coach and educator advancing community and nature-based well-being.
Dra. Angelina Londoño PH.D., nbc-hwc
Trauma Therapist & Sound Healing Guide
Blending mental health therapy, sound healing, and ancestral wisdom to support collective healing.
DrA. Jessica Sanchez, PhD, LMSW, MEd
Healing Arts + Crafts Workshop Guide
Visual artist guiding mujeres through creativity, rest, and reclaiming joy via the inner mija.
Ursula Rodriguez, Soleil Vida Studio
Doctora Experience Guide
Latina scholar and advocate helping women of color navigate academic spaces with agency and pride.
Dra. Carollaine M. Garcia, ph.d
Community Learning Guide
Founder of a Latina-owned bookstore amplifying stories, literacy, and belonging in Dallas.
Claudia Vega, Whose Books
Journaling Guides
Therapists and co-founders of LUNA guiding reflective writing and emotional connection through journaling.
Jessica Ruiz, LCSW (LUNA)
Cultura Guide
Cultural educator and artist uplifting community storytelling and equity through the arts.
Dra. Marta Torres Ed.D
Lesly Viera Juarez &
Join the Movement
Are you passionate about storytelling, mentorship, community healing, or culture? We're always looking for Latinas and allies to help bring our mission to life.
Ways to Get Involved:
- Attend our upcoming panels or events
- Volunteer your time, energy, or skills to support our community gatherings
Volunteer with Us >
