BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rut Beltran Astorga
Rut was born in Sinaloa, Mexico, and is a graduate of Brigham Young University, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees.
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Currently, Rut serves as a student advisor for multicultural students at BYU, dedicating her time to empowering students from diverse backgrounds. She is passionate about helping youth pursue their academic and personal dreams.
Her voice and experiences help elevate the people she serves.
Rogelio Osuna
Rogelio is a Business Management graduate from Brigham Young University, who has worked for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and Goldman Sachs.
Born and raised in Mexico City, he and his wife Karen are the proud parents of three daughters and two sons. With a strong passion for supporting the Hispanic and Latino communities, Rogelio actively participates in recruiting events and personal development programs.
As a father, he enjoys watching his daughters build confidence and skills for personal growth. Rogelio is excited to contribute to Ella Rises and help foster the same growth and success within the community.
Emma Guapo
Emma was born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, and moved to the United States as a teenager. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Education from Utah Valley University. Emma is dedicated to promoting education, healthier lifestyles, and personal growth.
Currently, Emma is pursuing her Master’s in Business while working as a Manager of Client Services. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature and spending quality time with her loved ones.
Zachariah Parry
Zachariah Parry is a legal and business strategist with a strong background in business consulting, tax planning, and asset protection. As the owner of The Fortune Law Firm, he specializes in helping medical professionals navigate complex business structures, tax strategies, and asset protection planning to safeguard their wealth and practices.
In addition to his legal expertise, Zachariah serves as a franchise owner of Hello Sugar, where he focuses on the legal side of running and growing the business, helping navigate contracts, franchise agreements, and strategic decision-making.
Zachariah’s passion for mentorship and community empowerment aligns with Ella Rises’ mission to uplift Latina youth through cultural awareness, education, and personal development. His experience in building and expanding businesses, strategic planning, and financial structuring brings valuable insight to the board, helping Ella Rises strengthen its foundation and expand its reach to empower more young Latinas.
Dennia Gayle
Ms. Dennia Gayle is a senior international development leader with over 18 years of service as a United Nations diplomat, specializing in global health, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. Since joining UNFPA in 2006, she has held leadership roles across Latin America, Africa, the Caribbean, and the U.S., overseeing programs and operations in Uganda, Ghana, Namibia, and Ethiopia. She has led national responses to public health, gender-based violence, and humanitarian crises, managing portfolios exceeding $30 million annually.
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Beyond the UN, Ms. Gayle co-owns Hera Associates, a global management consulting firm. A Fulbright Scholar, she holds a Licenciatura in Psychology from the University of Costa Rica and dual master’s degrees in International Public Health and Social Work from Tulane University. Renowned for her strategic vision and commitment to social progress, she champions equitable development and women’s empowerment worldwide.
Shawn Cates
Shawn Cates is an organizational change leader. He has led out in shaping less-defined opportunities into specific initiatives that drive outcomes. He has worked internationally for over 10 years directing programs, change efforts, and volunteer organizations. He has a Master’s degree in Instructional Psychology and a Doctorate degree in leadership and education.
He has worked for Brigham Young University and currently works for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a Senior Manager. He has lived in Chile, Mexico, Costa Rica, United States and has spent meaningful time in many other countries in Latin America, including Brazil.
He has a passion for his family, the outdoors, and growing faith in Jesus Christ. He finds great joy in supporting Ella Rises behind the scenes.
Bert Barillas
Bert is a graphic designer with over 20 years of experience and a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Cal State Northridge. He believes in the power of creativity to inspire and uplift, aligning with his passion for community service.
A second-generation immigrant born in California, Bert takes pride in his Mexican and Guatemalan heritage. Whether lending a hand to friends and neighbors or using his design skills for a greater cause, he is dedicated to making a positive impact. He is also a devoted husband and father who loves and supports his wife and children.
Above all, Bert strives to live a Christ-centered life, prioritizing faith, family, and service. When not designing or giving back, he enjoys shooting, hiking, camping, and backpacking in the great outdoors.