The Poderosas Fellowship

The Poderosas Fellowship, established by the Latino Equity Fund (LEF), is a professional development initiative designed to empower Latina leaders in the nonprofit development and philanthropic sectors across Massachusetts. This fellowship is rooted in honoring the contributions of Aixa Beauchamp, a co-founder of LEF, and other influential Latinas who have shaped the foundation's legacy. LEF, operated under the auspices of The Boston Foundation, is recognized as the only Latinx-serving community fund in Massachusetts. The program reflects a strategic effort to address the underrepresentation of Latinas in key development roles within nonprofit organizations. The fellowship offers an annual investment of $25,000, distributed as five individual $5,000 stipends, intended to fund professional development opportunities for selected fellows. These funds aim to enhance leadership capabilities and open new avenues within the philanthropic landscape for the recipients. Alongside financial support, fellows gain access to mentorship and networking opportunities to further their growth and career advancement. The initiative seeks to cultivate a robust community of Latina professionals, building a long-term alumni network actively connected with LEF, The Boston Foundation, and partner organizations. Eligible applicants include Latinas—defined inclusively to encompass cisgender women, transgender women, and gender-diverse individuals identifying with the Latina experience—who currently serve in mid-level development, advancement, or philanthropic roles at Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Additionally, executive directors of nonprofits with operating budgets under $1.5 million are also eligible. The program particularly encourages applications from individuals with marginalized identities, including Afro-Latinas, Indigenous Latinas, and nonbinary Latinas. To apply, candidates must submit a letter of interest, no longer than 750 words, addressing their personal philosophy of philanthropy and its influence on their current role. A resume or CV must accompany the letter. All materials are to be submitted via email to Javier Juarez at javier.juarez@tbf.org by June 13, 2025. The application process is designed to be accessible and streamlined. Applications will be reviewed by a selection team comprising LEF advisory board members and community partners, all of whom must disclose any conflicts of interest. Final decisions will be made by the LEF advisory board and presented by the program director. Selected fellows will be notified of their awards by June 30, 2025. The program aims to grow in future years, enhancing support for Latina leaders and reinforcing a more inclusive philanthropic environment. For more information about the fellowship or The Boston Foundation, interested individuals may contact 617.338.1700.