Team 2024-2025
Clelia O. Rodríguez, PhD | Founder and Academic Director of SEEDS for Change
Global Scholar | Mom | Interdisciplinary Educator | Inquisitorial Author
Proud of my upbringing in Chicunhuexo’s cornfields, Chalatenango in El Salvador, I bring over 25 years of experience innovating curricula and educational initiatives across the globe. Holding Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Philosophy from the University of Toronto, I focus on Cultural and Literary Studies and interdisciplinary teaching approaches. I am dedicated to transforming outdated educational practices by I integrating ancestral knowledge with modern technology to drive social impact. Check out some of my written work: Decolonizing Academia: Poverty, Oppression and Pain | Who Are You Without Colonialism?: Pedagogies of Liberation | https://utoronto.academia.edu/CleliaRodriguez
Email: clelia.rodriguez@utoronto.ca | educators@seedsforchange.ca
Website: Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto
IG: seedsforchange.ca
briana k. n. rodríguez (they/them) | Community & Culture (El Salvador)
briana is a compassionate non-binary, Maya Ch’orti’ educator, thought partner, and scholar. Through the lens of a former secondary mathematics teacher, their research critically examines the philosophy of dominant mathematics and Maya mathematics in the U.S. and Central America, as well as asking, “What is the purpose of (mathematics) education?” They collaborate with community educators virtually and in the isthmus to co-create educational spaces for education towards self-determination and realizing Indigenous futurity. Additionally, they are a co-organizer for the Central American and Isthmian Writers’ Group. They earned a B.A. in Mathematics from UC Santa Cruz, an M.A. in Human Development and Psychology from UCLA, and is currently a PhD student at the University of Pittsburgh in Learning Sciences and Policy.
Email: briana.k.rodriguez@gmail.com
Carolina Luz Rodríguez |
Co-Founder Cultura Cafe
I am Carolina Rodriguez, a leading Canadian coffee professional and beverage innovator with over 12 years of industry experience, including 6 years specializing in specialty coffee. I blend ancestral coffee knowledge with a contemporary perspective, creating a unique fusion of tradition and innovation. With a deep understanding of coffee culture and a commitment to excellence, I am dedicated to advancing forward-thinking practices and enriching the coffee experience through my expertise and passion.
Email: culturacafe.es@gmail.com
IG: @culturacafetours
Roxana Damas (she/her) | Politics, Women & Society (United States/El Salvador)
Roxana Damas, Founder of Diversity (Resources + Development) Global consulting firm, was selected as a 2017 U.N. Empower Women Champion for Change and a board member of the U.N. Association East Bay; many national and international organizations recognize her for her work in diversity consulting and social change strategies, advocacy, and coaching skills. At the core and beginning of her career, Roxana is a true performer, singer-songwriter, and overall entertainer at heart. She is a public speaker, author, and an advocate for human rights, and as such, has founded the nonprofit Alquimia Global, which kicked off the Human Rights Taskforce for Children and Refugees in Detention and advocacy support to the Universal Periodic Review for the U.N. Human Rights Council.
In addition, Roxana has years of commitment to the betterment of small businesses and nonprofits, corporate social responsibility, economic empowerment, bridging the digital divide, language access, violence prevention, and community engagement. She holds an MBA from Roxana holds an MBA with an emphasis in Trans-Global Social Sustainable Business from Saint Mary’s College of California, a Bachelor’s Degree in Women & Gender Studies with a minor in Globalization Studies (specializing in trade, fashion, communications, policy, and populations exposed to violence and war) from the University of California, Davis. She is a San Francisco native who was also raised in El Salvador. Learn more about her project designed in support of U.N. Empower Women at www.weegloballive.com
Music Page: www.roxanadamas.com
Human Rights & Global Change Makers Work: www.alquimiaglobal.org
Diversity & Corporate Social Responsibility Consulting: www.diversityrd.com
Kealin Williams | Community Organizer & Operations Management
Kealin Williams is a dynamic force in the world of community organizing, advocacy, and operations management. With a passion for social change and a knack for bringing people together, she has dedicated her career to making a difference in her community.
As a seasoned community organizer, Kealin has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups and amplifying their voices. Her tireless advocacy work has led to improved access to resources for underserved communities.
In addition to her work as a community organizer and advocate, Kealin is also a skilled operations expert and human resources professional. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for strategic planning, she excels at streamlining processes, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring organizational success.
Kealin's expertise extends to facilitation, where she skillfully guides groups through discussions and decision-making processes. Her inclusive approach fosters collaboration and empowers individuals to contribute their unique perspectives to achieve common goals.
Driven by a commitment to social justice and equity, Kealin is a true champion for positive change in her community and beyond.
Email: Kealinfwilliams@gmail.com