MAY 14, 2025
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Originally from Cali, Colombia, Maria (she/her) has dedicated her career to amplifying the voices of historically underserved communities—particularly children, youth, young adults, and immigrants—through program design, social impact consulting, and the development of social enterprises. |
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Maria earned her Master’s in Social Work, with a focus on leadership, management, and entrepreneurship, from Columbia University. During her studies, she served as a Case Manager for unaccompanied minors and their families through Catholic Charities’ Safe Passages Program and later supported development initiatives at the CFE Fund. Before moving to the United States, Maria helped launch operations at S&ALA Consultoría in Bogotá and later served as People and Operations Manager at Diseño Público, where she led grant management, program design, and organizational expansion.
Inspired by its holistic, community-centered mission and commitment to democratizing health access, Maria joined Grassroots Health this April. Through her role as Development Manager, Maria leads fundraising, grant management, corporate partnerships, and relationship-building efforts to expand and sustain the organization’s impact. She is committed to contributing her strategic leadership, passion for social justice, and expertise in building sustainable systems to strengthen GRH’s reach and deepen its impact.Follow along as Maria tells us more about herself!
What is your favorite aspect about each of the places you’ve lived throughout your life?
Every place I’ve lived has its kind of magic—and for me, that magic always begins with the people. It’s the friendships formed, the shared moments, the sense of connection that turn unfamiliar streets into something meaningful. Just as powerful is the cultural energy each place brings—the food, music, art, language, and traditions that shape daily life and invite you to keep learning and growing.
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In Paris, people are always ready to engage in conversation, even strangers. Parisians have mastered the art of meaningful dialogue over coffee, and I admire how they honor their traditions and embrace a lifestyle where joie de vivre is central.
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I’m drawn to how authentic people in New York City are—unafraid to speak out and be who they are, whether others like it or not. The city’s fast pace matches my energy, and there’s always something new around every corner.
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Despite being a big city, I love how people in Bogotá remain warm and grounded. It manages to be international without losing its identity as undeniably Colombian.
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Though the skies of Edinburgh are often gray, there I’ve met some of the warmest hearts I’ve ever known. It’s a city that quietly wraps you in comfort and makes you feel at home.
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DC is the first place I’m calling home with my new family. I love how it blends the momentum of a big city with rich cultural offerings and an incredibly diverse, international community.
Each place has shaped me, and continues to do so in its way!
What/who is the biggest influence on who you are today?
Without question, my biggest influence has been my family. I’ve always been a deeply family-oriented person, and the values, lessons, and love I’ve received from them have shaped me more than anything else. From my parents, I learned resilience, kindness, and the importance of showing up for others. My oldest brother sparked my curiosity about how the world works, always asking questions and exploring ideas. My middle brother taught me how to love people wholeheartedly and embrace the beauty of the unexpected. From my husband, I’ve learned the quiet strength of being calm, the power of attentiveness, and how love can be shown through simple, consistent acts of care. Each of my family members has helped me grow into who I am—grounded, open-hearted, and always learning.
What sparked your desire to strengthen the voices of underserved communities?
Ever since I was a kid, service has been a cornerstone of my life. Growing up in Colombia—a country marked by deep inequalities—I became aware of my privilege early on. At home, I was taught that privilege and talent come with a responsibility to give back. I started volunteering at age six with my grandmother at a pediatric cancer pavilion, and watched my mother dedicate herself as a volunteer doctor and therapist. That environment instilled in me both a sense of duty and a deep empathy for those whose voices often go unheard. Over time, what began as a calling became a career. Early in my professional journey, I saw firsthand how my skills could be used to amplify the stories and needs of underserved communities. That realization cemented my purpose: to be a bridge, an advocate, and a partner in helping others be seen, heard, and valued.
After your first week, how do you like Grassroots Health so far?
My first week at Grassroots Health has been nothing short of fantastic. I’ve landed in a place filled with incredibly talented, kind, and compassionate people who truly care about the work and about one another. It’s rare to find a team that seamlessly combines heart and skill, and I feel genuinely grateful to be part of it. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to land.
What do you see for the future of this organization, and how do you see yourself contributing to that vision?
Having worked in the nonprofit sector for years, I’ve seen many models, but Grassroots Health is truly unique in the best way. The intentional methods in which outcomes and impact are measured and the central role given to student voices set it apart. I see a bright future for the organization—one where we grow to reach even more schools across DC while deepening our impact. I also envision stronger, lasting relationships with donors, funders, and community partners. Through development, I hope to help build and nurture those connections, expanding the Grassroots Health community and ensuring long-term sustainability for our mission.
Okay, rapid fire – what’s your favorite…
Food?
Fruit (specifically blackberries & granadillas)
Movie?
Before the sunset
Artist/band?
Philip Glass
DC hangout spot?
Rock Creek Park
Cafe?
Urbana in Chelsea, NYC
Exercise?
Zumba
GRH Program?
Grassroots FAM
In the short time she’s been here, Maria has contributed strong insight, energy, and direction to our team, and we’re inspired by the potential her leadership brings for our collective growth. Welcome to Grassroots Health, Maria!
