Petra Mata (she/her)

Founder

“I have been working with Fuerza Unida for over 33 years. My passion has always been to talk to my people and find out how I can help, so being a part of this organization for so long has been a blessing.

Your fight is my fight. I see all of Fuerza Unida as my family and second home.”

The Admin Team

 

gabriela ibarra noriega (she/her)

Interim Executive Director

“Fuerza Unida has been a part of my life and heart for many years, and stepping into the role of Interim Executive Director is an honor. My passion is rooted in serving our community, listening to our people, standing with them in their struggles, and working together toward justice and empowerment.

Fuerza Unida is more than an organization; it is family, and I am committed to carrying forward its legacy of resilience, advocacy, and love for our San Antonio community.”

Email: director@fuerzaunida.org

Nancy Parrilla (she/her)

Chief Financial Officer

“I am happy to be able to continue my 20+ year career with Fuerza Unida. It is an honor to work alongside all these powerful women. They have done so much for the southside of San Antonio and beyond. I am very excited to see what is in store for the organization.

Email: accounting@fuerzaunida.org

 

enedina montes (she/her)

Head Seamstress

I lead the sewing classes at Fuerza Unida and create guayaberas and custom designs. I truly enjoy my work, and it gives me so much joy to share my creativity and passion with others. Teaching allows me to pass on skills, preserve tradition, and connect with our San Antonio community in meaningful ways.”

 
 

ernestina noriega (she/her)

Seamstress

“I am a seamstress at Fuerza Unida, where I bring my love for music, dancing, and creativity into my work. Designing clothing and creating unique pieces allows me to express myself while giving back to my community.

I enjoy connecting with others, and helping make miracles happen through my designs. Sewing is not just my craft—it’s my way of staying true to my community and sharing joy with those around me.”

 

juanita reyna (she/her)

Assistant

“I am a founding member of Fuerza Unida and now serve as an assistant, supporting the work we do every day. I love helping my community and sharing priceless moments with my loved ones. Being part of Fuerza Unida from the beginning has been an honor, and I remain committed to the mission and the people we serve.”

 
 

rosa zapata (she/her)

Administrative Assistant

'“I dedicate my time to Fuerza Unida because I truly enjoy helping the community. When people come in with different needs, I do my best to connect them with resources across the city. It makes me happy to spend my time supporting others and giving back to the community I care about.”

 
 

patricia santos (she/her)

Team Lead

“I serve as a Team Lead for the Tree Steward program, and I truly enjoy helping my community and working with youth. I bring my energy and passion into every program I support, and it brings me joy to see growth and positive change. Being able to inspire others and make an impact is what keeps me shining.”

 

juanita guzman (she/her)

Lead Volunteer

“I am a full-time volunteer at Fuerza Unida, and I love helping out wherever I’m needed. Supporting my community brings me joy, and being part of the Fuerza Unida family is a blessing. This organization feels like home, and I’m proud to give my time to its mission”