Meet the Team

LEEAF stands for equity led by communities. We are working toward a future where the vision of success reflects the whole community, where systems deliver support that opens real, practical pathways of opportunity to all. The LEEAF team specializes in leading community conversations and action research that amplify voices and create meaningful change. Our work includes the report Listening to the Businesses of East LA and builds on deep personal ties to this community. 

The East LA Representation Project brings together LEEAF alongside a coalition of partners including the Office of Hilda L. Solis, and professionals from LA County to ensure that the people of unincorporated East LA have a powerful voice in shaping their political future. The two Lead Facilitators are Rem Nunez of Alma Family Services and local business leader Ely Valdivia of Earthy Corazon, both based in East LA.

  • Elianne Rodriguez

    Director

    Elianne Rodriguez is a serial entrepreneur with 17 years of experience in small businesses, education, and tech. She believes entrepreneurship and technology are great disruptors to build accessible and equitable ecosystems. Elianne fosters community and designs culturally competent programming to connect diverse talent to opportunities that reflect the intersectionality of Los Angeles across racial, socioeconomic, gender, education, sexuality, and immigration status. At LEEAF, Elianne leads the development, implementation, and oversight of all programs serving both business leaders and students.

  • Dmitri Seals

    Lead Faculty

    Dr. Dmitri Seals draws upon his extensive background in sociological action research and his role in founding and leading successful youth-serving nonprofits, Dmitri exemplifies a commitment to community-driven, research-based efforts aimed at advancing justice and fostering opportunities. His work centers around university-based models designed to empower students to critically analyze issues, create effective interventions, and persistently work toward achieving enduring and impactful change. At LEEAF, he leads community outreach and supports the student-facing and core institutional functions of the program

  • Marla Parker

    Lead Faculty

    Dr. Marla Parker is a dedicated professional who plays a pivotal role in guiding organizations toward their diversity and equity objectives, fostering learning and development, strategic planning, and well-being. In addition to her organizational contributions, Marla brings a decade of research and practical expertise focused on the unique experiences of entrepreneurs of color, and she offers personalized and small-group coaching, dedicated to helping individuals in their journey of personal and professional growth. At LEEAF, Marla leads the research team and program evaluation.

  • Jorge Felix Valenzuela

    Research Team Lead

    Jorge Feliz Valenzuela is a visionary research team lead dedicated to driving meaningful insights and innovation. With a strategic mindset and a passion for discovery, Jorge excels in guiding LEEAF’s research team to uncover valuable findings and drive impactful outcomes. Committed to supporting underrepresented communities and entrepreneurs of color, Jorge leverages research to address pressing issues and effect positive change. Experienced in navigating complex research landscapes, champions collaboration in every project, nurturing a team environment that fosters innovation and breakthroughs.

  • Gabriela Flores

    Program Coordinator

    Gabriela Flores is a driven young professional with a diverse background in the nonprofit sector and tech industry. She excels in project management, sourcing, and Excel. As the first in her family to graduate from UC Riverside with a Bachelor's in Education, Society, and Human Development. She is passionate about giving back to her community. A proud Los Angeles native, she is dedicated to providing resources and support to uplift those around her. In addition to running a small business, she is currently participating in a digital marketing fellowship at COOP Careers. Gabriela is excited to bring her skills to LEEAF, where she is committed to making a positive impact on small businesses and the community.

  • Ely Valdivia

    Lead Facilitator

    Ely Valdivia is the founder of Earthy Corazon, a collective space in East LA that uplifts community healing and local artists. Their role as a social impact entrepreneur and their background in Sociology has shaped their commitment to community-centered leadership. Her work is rooted in empathy, cultural empowerment, and commitment to civic engagement. Ely is dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces that reflect and honor the vibrant diversity of East LA residents.

  • Remberto Nunez, LCSW

    Lead Facilitator


    Remberto Nunez, LCSWis an expert in developing and implementing trauma- informed approaches, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction strategies. In East Los Angeles, Rem oversees a team of intensive case managers who work with the unhoused population in linking them to vital community resources that promote independence and self-sufficiency along with housing. Rem has been working in and around East LA since 2008, promoting health and wellness as well as community engagement.