Diverse women walking together outside
Lead Her Forward

The women moving our mission forward

Lead Her Forward is guided by women who believe access, community, and opportunity can change what is possible.

Montell Gayok, Founder of Lead Her Forward

Founder

Montell Gayok

I founded Lead Her Forward to close a gap I saw clearly in Utah: talented minority, disabled, and economically disadvantaged women who have the drive to succeed, but lack access to education and mentorship. True empowerment isn't just about getting a woman through the door—it's about giving her the support to thrive and lift up the next woman behind her. Together with our incredible team, we are ensuring every woman can reach her full potential.

Portrait of Miriam Nieto

President

Miriam Nieto

As Director of Education at Holy Cross Ministries, a Mexican immigrant, and a proud Latina leader, empowering families is central to who I am. My degree from the National University of Mexico and leadership training at the University of Utah drive my dedication to advocating for underserved communities. I show up for Lead Her Forward to help women unlock their strengths, build confidence, and lead with purpose.

Charyssa Manzanares, Officer and Media Relations for Lead Her Forward

Officer & Media Relations

Charyssa Manzanares

As an LGBTQIA+ woman and a mother, creating a world where women's rights are protected and celebrated is deeply personal to me—I want to build a better, safer world for my daughter. I'm passionate about cultivating inclusive spaces where women of all backgrounds have equal access to opportunity. At Lead Her Forward, I am committed to removing barriers so the next generation of women can step into their power without limits.

Gabrielle Devenport, Secretary of Lead Her Forward

Secretary

Gabrielle Devenport

Navigating a heavily male-dominated field as an LGBTQIA+ woman, entrepreneur, and advocate for creating more human-centered spaces, I’ve seen how powerful it is when women have people in their corner who believe in them. I show up for Lead Her Forward because I believe women deserve more than a seat at the table—they deserve the confidence, support, and opportunity to know they belong there. I’m passionate about helping women find their voice, recognize their own power, and move forward with intention. Every woman deserves the opportunity to lead boldly, authentically, and on her own terms.

Gloria Tapia, Treasurer of Lead Her Forward

Treasurer

Gloria Tapia

As an immigrant, I've seen firsthand how financial barriers hold back talented women in my community from reaching their potential. Having experienced what a scholarship can mean for growing into a leader, Lead Her Forward is deeply personal to me. I'm proud to help remove educational barriers so capable women can step into leadership and build pathways to a brighter future.

Help more women lead, thrive, and inspire.

Your support helps create scholarships, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women who have been historically excluded from advancement.

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