Arely Cardenas
Arely Cardenas is a nonprofit executive, artist, and community advocate with over a decade of leadership experience across mission-driven organizations throughout the United States. A Latinx queer strategic leader, she is deeply committed to advancing equity, dismantling systemic disparities affecting BIPOC communities, and cultivating inclusive, mentally healthy workplaces where people and organizations can thrive.
Throughout her career, Arely has led cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious enrollment and performance goals, design and scale impactful programs, and implement data-informed strategies that strengthen retention and long-term outcomes. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, cultural competence, and sustainability, with extensive experience in mentorship, coaching, stakeholder engagement, and strategic program development across multiple national sites.
Beyond her executive and advisory work, Arely is a visual artist whose creative practice informs her approach to justice-centered leadership and community engagement. She is the founder of an independent mural and visual arts business, leading large-scale public art projects that center community voice, cultural identity, and collective storytelling. She brings both lived experience and analytical rigor to every initiative, bridging strategy and creativity to drive meaningful, lasting change.
Arely holds a Master of Science in Justice Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from San José State University. Her dedication to mental health, equity, and community impact positions her as a transformative leader at the intersection of organizational innovation and social change.
• Venture Leadership Academy: Change Champion Creed
• Mind Share partners Institute- Certificate of Completion
• San José State University
• Local Color
• Santa Clara County Probation Department
• Silicon Valley Pride
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being a lifelong learner and staying curious, with a strong focus on both personal and spiritual growth. Continuously seeking knowledge and self-improvement has allowed me to navigate challenges and create meaningful impact in my work.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have receifved is even when there are hundreds of people with similar work experience to you, no one can do it like you, so take a chance on yourself.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to seek out your mentors, ask for guidance in areas that are new to you.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life include mentorship and guidance, particularly for young women and individuals impacted by systemic barriers. Supporting others in their growth and helping them navigate challenges is central to how I lead and live.