our t.e.a.m

together, we succeed through shared values and goals. our team is dedicated to creating a world where chicas, girls, and young women of color can thrive without the obstacles imposed by society and history.

NO CURRENT OPEN OPPORTUNITIES.

Together Everyone Achieves More.

Executive Director

Zaida Ismatul Oliva

Zaida Ismatul Oliva is a bi-cultural, proud immigrant, first-generation college graduate, English-language learner, and dual citizen—identities that deeply shape her empathy and leadership as Executive Director of Chica Project. She holds a Bachelor’s in Latin American and Iberian Studies from the University of Massachusetts Boston and a Master’s in Education from Florida Atlantic University.

With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and higher education sectors, Zaida has built her career around creating access, equity, and belonging for historically marginalized communities. Her work centers on lifting others as she climbs, building spaces where Women and Girls of Color can lead confidently and unapologetically.

A passionate advocate for representation and social change, Zaida also serves on the Chelsea Women’s Commission and the Board of Trustees at the Margarita Muñiz Academy. Outside of her professional life, she is the proud mother of six-year-old Luna—her greatest joy and the inspiration behind her commitment to building a more just and inclusive world.

Zaida Ismatul Oliva, Executive Director of Chica Project, a bi-cultural immigrant leader and advocate for Girls and Women of Color in Boston with over 20 years of nonprofit experience

Director of Development

Lorrin Van Evra

Lorrin serves as the Director of Development for Chica Project, channeling a decade of nonprofit expertise to secure the resources needed for lasting empowerment.

With a focus on community-centric fundraising and innovative growth strategies honed through a social impact MBA, she leads all major donor, grant, and campaign efforts. Lorrin is driven by the daily opportunity to turn vision into direct action, helping young women of color achieve their dreams.

Lorrin Van Evra, Director of Development at Chica Project Boston, leading fundraising and community-centric growth strategies to empower young Women of Color

Full & Part-Time Team

Corryn Barnes

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT & DATA IMPACT MANAGER — Corryn Barnes is a social impact and development leader with over six years of experience in project management, data strategy, and community-centered programming across the U.S., Latin America, and West Africa. She has led and supported initiatives in youth empowerment, civic engagement, human rights, and nonprofit operations, with experience spanning USAID-funded projects, grassroots organizations, and national advocacy networks. Corryn is passionate about building systems that center equity and storytelling.
Outside of her professional work, Corryn enjoys attending Broadway plays, lifelong learning, and spending time studying her Bible, interests that ground her leadership in creativity, curiosity, and faith.
Ana Díaz

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS CONTRACTOR — Ana, a dynamic professional with a background in Food Sciences, embarked on her journey to the United States to pursue a PhD. Alongside her academic pursuits, Ana discovered a deep-seated passion for Marketing and branding, leading her to carve a successful path in this field within the country. Committed to empowering the Latino community, Ana is dedicated to lending her voice and expertise to uplift others.
Ana, a dedicated mother of two, values work-life balance, enjoys outdoor activities, and reflective moments.
Darleny Gomez Reyes

LEAD PROGRAM FACILITATOR — Darleny Gomez is originally from the Dominican Republic and has lived in the Greater Boston area for about 10 years. Her work has been deeply rooted in supporting youth of Latino/a descent. She has a background in working with families and children and is excited to continue working with youth and empowering her community.
Desiree Ruiz Ramoz

SCHOOL & COMMUNITY PROGRAM MANAGER — Desiree is a first-generation Guatemalan American who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and English from Stonehill College and a Master of Education in Community Engagement from Merrimack College. Des is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Development, where her work centers on leadership sustainability, community-based change, and collective care. Deeply committed to individual and community growth, Desiree believes that when we are supported in our own journeys, we create the conditions for collective movement, healing, and sisterhood. Her work focuses on uplifting voices, building equitable systems, and cultivating spaces rooted in belonging, empowerment, and care.
Outside of work, Desiree is a writer at heart, loves the color green and sunflowers, and is a proud cat mom to Bear Bear.
Shanaiysah Moore

LEAD PROGRAM FACILITATOR — Shanaiysah was born and raised in New Jersey and has five years of experience working as an operations manager for system-involved youth and a psychology degree. As a Black woman, she is passionate about making change in communities like the one she grew up in and inspiring other organizations to do the same. This work is deeply meaningful to her and aligns with her values of empowerment and positive impact.
In her free time, she enjoys painting and drawing, with her family as her biggest muse!
Alina Wang

FINANCE CONTRACTOR — Alina is a dynamic and driven professional with a strong background in business and finance. She is a proud first-generation graduate. She earned her master's degree in business from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) and is deeply passionate about learning, personal growth, and empowering others. With a keen ability to apply her skills and knowledge, Alina strives to create a lasting, positive impact on the communities she serves. Her unwavering belief in the indestructible and unstoppable power of women is at the core of her mission: “There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.” Fluent in both English and Chinese, Alina connects with diverse audiences, making her a versatile and influential leader in any setting.

Our Board

Damali Vidot

BOARD CHAIR — Damali Vidot is a Nuyorican mother, auntie, youth mentor, writer, artist, and plant-lover who uses crystals, amulets, seeds, and beading to foster love through jewelry-making. She is a community organizer, advocate, and former elected official whose work advances equitable access to the resources people need to live and love well. Her activism sits at the intersection of art, policy, and collective care, centering those most impacted to drive systemic change. She builds power through creativity, accountability, and unapologetic justice.
“Our daughters deserve safe spaces that not only center & empower them but that support these future leaders to dream bigger & lead the way.”
Mirian Albert

STAFF ATTORNEY, LAWYERS FOR CIVIL RIGHTS — As a proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, Mirian has long pursued advocacy roles that allow her to uplift immigrant and communities of color. After three years of working with families involved with the foster care system and youth, Mirian shifted careers and sought her law degree. Currently, at Lawyers for Civil Rights, she provides free, life-changing legal support to fight discrimination and foster equity for immigrants and communities of color.
"I am committed to Chica Project because it promotes a form of revolutionary love–that is, love that encourages girls of color to be authentic, curious, brave, and joyful– all of which are required to truly transform our society and create a more equitable world.”
Scott Noddin

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, GOTO TECHNOLOGIES — Scott holds a Master of Business Administration from Boston College Carroll School of Management and a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, NS, where he was awarded the Governor General's Silver Medal. Scott is licensed as a CPA in both the United States and Canada.
Scott has been serving as Senior Accountant at GoTo Technologies since 2019 and has held prior roles at Wolf & Company, P.C., Collins Barrow, and Grant Thornton. Since joining Chica Project’s Finance Committee in 2019, Scott has brought his financial expertise and insight to advance the organization’s mission.
Linel Perez

PROJECT MANAGER, DUET — Linel is a community builder who’s passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected. Her Panamanian and Dominican heritage has shaped her commitment to equity, cultural preservation, and bringing people together through storytelling and shared experiences. She has been in the nonprofit space for over 4 years, turning ideas into action and building initiatives that center on people and purpose.
“I’ve seen how transformative it is when young girls are given access, encouragement, and a strong support system. This community doesn’t just inspire growth, but it actively creates opportunities for it.”
Noelle Rudeen

STRATEGIC OPERATIONS CONSULTANT — Noelle is a creative and community-centered operations professional with experience working with mission-driven organizations to bring spaces, stories, and strategies to life. Her work is rooted in relationship building, partnering with organizations at every stage of a business, from hiring to ongoing development. In her consulting work, Noelle is passionate about stepping alongside leaders to equip their organizations with structures for long-term growth.
“I am committed to Chica Project because I have experienced the life-changing power of mentorship and following in the footsteps of the women who have come before me. The work Chica Project is doing to pour into the lives of young people of color in our community is one that will impact generations to come. ”
Aadil Z. Sulaiman

VICE PRESIDENT OF YOUTH AND SOCIAL JUSTICE, COMMONWEALTH CORPORATION — Aadil has an extensive career in national youth empowerment and youth workforce development, including time at Year Up and Roca. He holds a B.A. in International Affairs and Economics from Northeastern University and a Nonprofit Leadership and Management certificate from Tufts University through the Institute for Nonprofit Practice.

“I am committed to Chica Project because of the vital importance of mentorship, networking, and social support to empower the next generation of leaders.”
Melanie Torres

PROGRAM MANAGER, THE KLARMAN FAMILY FOUNDATION — Melanie currently works at a family foundation, overseeing a statewide community capital grant program. Prior to this role, Melanie spent most of her career working in non-profits in community engagement and immigration legal services in Massachusetts. She has a certificate in nonprofit management and leadership from Boston University.

“I am committed to Chica Project because I know what a profound impact self-empowerment and mentorship can have on a young person.”