Learn about Ella Rises Foundation and how we empower young women through education, music, and community.
Our dedicated team of leaders and educators are committed to empowering young women and creating lasting impact in our community.
Founder and Executive Director
With over 15 years of experience in education and community development, Nadia founded Ella Rises to create opportunities for young women to pursue higher education while celebrating their cultural heritage.
Her deep connection to her heritage and belief that embracing spiritual and cultural roots leads to clarity, confidence, and progress drives the mission of Ella Rises forward every day.
Nadia is grateful to lead Ella Rises as the Creative and Executive Director, empowering young women to rise and achieve their dreams.
Program Director
Claudia brings expertise in program development and youth mentorship, overseeing our mariachi, STEAM, and arts programs to ensure meaningful learning experiences for all participants.
With a background in social work and community advocacy, she is dedicated to creating programs that empower young women and celebrate their cultural heritage.
Her passion for education and social justice drives her commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of the young women we serve.
Discover the stories and coverage that highlight our mission and impact in the community.
Claudia Barillas shares her journey from social work to BYU Marriott's EMPA program, and how she's helping Latino young women reconnect with their cultural roots through Ella Rises.
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Founded by Nadia Cates in 2020, Ella Rises empowers young Latina women through art, STEM, and mariachi programs, creating a safe space where girls can feel inspired and connected to their heritage.
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Ella Rises held a three-day summit with over 90 girls attending workshops, art classes, and motivational speakers including Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic astronaut to go to space.
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Ella Rises has grown from serving 75 girls in 2020 to 145 girls, offering free mentoring programs including art, STEM, mental health, and mariachi workshops to help Latina youth reconnect with their roots.
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Ella Rises featured on Good Things Utah, showcasing how workshops in art, STEM, and mariachi empower young Latina women to connect with their heritage and pursue their dreams.
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A Utah County-based nonprofit gives Latina youth a chance to connect to their roots through art workshops, helping them overcome barriers and create unity in the community.
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