From Volunteer to Director: How One Young Latina is Shaping the Future of Atlanta’s Los Niños Primero
At just 25 years old, Lizbeth is not only a testament to the power of Los Niños Primero mission but also a living example of how Los Niños Primero’s impact extends far beyond its students. As we celebrate 25 years of empowering the Latino community, Lizbeth stands as a shining symbol of what it means to dream big, grow, and give back.
In her own words, Lizbeth reflects on the lessons she’s learned, the challenges she’s overcome, and her hopes for the next generation of leaders. From youth volunteer to Director of Youth Programs, her journey embodies the mission of Los Niños Primero – empowering Latino youth to dream boldly and become leaders in their community. As we celebrate 25 years of building dreams, we invite you to step into her story and discover how Latina women like Lizbeth are shaping the future.
A Journey of Leadership: Lizbeth’s Story in Her Own Words
From Volunteer to Leader
In 2012, at just 13 years old, Lizbeth walked into her first summer at Los Niños Primero, unsure of what to expect but eager to make a difference. Her younger sister had joined the program as a three-year-old, coming home each day with stories of the young teachers in her classroom. Inspired by those stories and a budding dream of becoming a teacher, Lizbeth signed up as a teen volunteer – hoping to gain experience, build her college resume, and contribute to something meaningful.
But what started as a summer opportunity quickly became a defining moment in her life. “That one summer changed my life.” Under the guidance of Ms. Marjorie Araujo and Ms. Christy Hill, she found not only mentors but role models who shaped the way she would lead in the years to come. Ms. Araujo created a classroom where every student and volunteer felt valued, treating them as partners in learning rather than assistants. Ms. Christy, with her clear expectations and unwavering support, instilled the leadership qualities that now guide her as Director of Youth Programs.
“As I reflect on my first summer as a volunteer, I realize how much that one summer defined how I work with our volunteers now.” Today, the same lessons of inclusion, encouragement, and trust that she learned as a teen are at the heart of how she empowers youth volunteers, ensuring they too feel seen, valued, and capable of making a lasting impact.
The Leap to Leadership: Becoming Director of Youth Programs
In February 2023, while most of the team was in Finland, she received a life-changing call from Executive Director Maritza Morelli – the Director of Youth Programs position was hers if she wanted it. But instead of immediate excitement, doubt crept in. “Can you give me some time to think about it?” she asked.
By then, she was no stranger to leadership. She had grown within Los Niños Primero, serving as an Administrative Assistant, Civic Engagement Coordinator, Office Manager, and Social Media Manager. Yet, stepping into this new role felt different. She worried she was disconnected from the youth, uncertain if she was ready to lead.
That night, she turned to her greatest supporters – her family. They reminded her of how much she had grown with Los Niños Primero, how deeply she understood its mission. With their encouragement, she took the leap.
“I have experienced the wonders of being a volunteer, and now, getting to rebuild and expand the program has been such an incredible journey.”
Now, as Director of Youth Programs, she is not just leading – she is rebuilding and expanding, ensuring the next generation of youth finds the same purpose and belonging that once shaped her own journey.
The Evolution of LNP Over 25 Years
When Los Niños Primero first began, its sole focus was on the children. But as those children grew, so did the organization. What started as a preschool program evolved into a thriving network of support for students, educators, and families alike.
“I love our name, Los Niños Primero, because when the organization started, we only focused on our niños. The beauty of it is that as they grew up, our programs did too.”
This evolution is woven into every milestone. When the first alumni reached high school graduation, the Martha Barrios Mead Scholarship was created to honor their journey. Today, the cycle continues—one of LNP’s earliest students has returned as a teacher, shaping the next generation.
Through it all, the mission has remained steadfast: to empower the Latino community to thrive. And just as the students dream bigger, the organization grows stronger.
She laughs about the future. “I don’t know how long I will be Director of Youth Programs because let’s face it, my grey hairs are growing fast, but I already see some of our youth with the potential to take my place one day.”
Her role may change, but her place in Los Niños Primero is certain. “I don’t know what my role will be 10 or 20 years from now, but I know Los Niños Primero will continue to be in my life.”
Lessons in Leadership & Overcoming Challenges
Leadership, she has learned, is all about trust. From her early days as a volunteer to her current role as Director of Youth Programs, trust has been the foundation upon which she’s built her leadership. It’s not just about trusting others—it’s about trusting herself. She often reflects on a guiding principle that has shaped her leadership: “When we know better, we do better.” Those words, passed down to her, became a foundation she leaned on in moments of uncertainty: “Each time I face a challenge, I work to do better.”
“One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that leadership is about trust. Since starting at Los Niños Primero, I have learned to trust myself, trust my team, and trust that challenges lead to growth.”
Hopes & Dreams for the Next Generation
As the Director of Youth Programs, her hopes for the next generation of students at Los Niños Primero are rooted in empowerment, identity, and limitless possibilities. She envisions a future where every student leaves the program feeling proud of who they are and confident in their abilities to shape their own paths.
“I hope the next generation of students in our youth program leave Los Niños Primero feeling empowered and proud of their identity. I want them to know that their voices matter and that their dreams, no matter how big, are worth pursuing.”
For her, it’s not just about providing education—it’s about expanding opportunities for growth, exploration, and mentorship. She wants to help students envision careers, explore their passions, and have the support they need to succeed.
“My goal is to continue to expand opportunities for our youth through career exploration and mentorship. I want our youth to feel supported in whatever path they choose and know that they have a community that believes in them.”
Above all, she hopes that one day, the students will look back on their time at Los Niños Primero and recognize it as the place where they were shaped into the leaders they were always meant to become.
“More than anything, I hope that one day they look back at their time at Los Niños Primero and see it as a place that helped shape them into the leaders they were always meant to be.”
Carrying the Torch Forward
Reflecting on her incredible journey with Los Niños Primero, she shared a powerful thought that encapsulates her dedication to the program and the impact it’s had on her life and career:
“Los Niños Primero is more than just a program—it’s a community that empowers us all. It’s where dreams take root, and where, together, we rise to reach them.”
Her journey mirrors the growth of Los Niños Primero itself—starting as a small program focused on the needs of Latino youth, it has expanded and evolved into a powerful force for change, shaping young leaders who go on to transform their communities. As she’s risen through the ranks, from volunteer to Director, she’s seen firsthand how the organization’s commitment to its mission has only grown stronger. Today, her work is no longer just about shaping the future of the youth program, but ensuring that each young person feels supported and empowered to step into leadership roles.
As we celebrate 25 years of Building Dreams at Los Niños Primero, we invite you to join us in honoring this incredible legacy. By donating, volunteering, or getting involved, you can help continue the journey of transforming lives and empowering the next generation of leaders.