Dr. Denise Fernandes
Dr. Denise Fernandes is a seasoned leader in government, civic engagement, and global women’s empowerment. She serves as President of Women Economic Forum New Jersey, a global platform operating in over 150 countries, which she established in New Jersey four years ago—becoming the first to bring the initiative from a country-level platform into a U.S. state. Through this work, she organizes an annual international conference that elevates and recognizes extraordinary women across New Jersey, creating visibility, networking opportunities, and global connections for women whose contributions might otherwise go unrecognized. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to showcasing women’s impact and strengthening global pathways for collaboration and empowerment.
In addition to her work with Women Economic Forum, Dr. Fernandes holds multiple influential leadership roles, including Chair of Latino Engagement at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, one of the largest cultural institutions in the state. She is also a mentor with the Obama Foundation, where she supports and guides emerging student leaders, and serves as Advisor Member of G100: Mission Million. With a strong academic foundation from Rutgers University-New Brunswick, she brings decades of experience spanning politics, leadership development, and advocacy, including years of work connected to public service and women’s initiatives within New Jersey.
Dr. Fernandes’ personal journey has profoundly shaped her mission and resilience. After surviving a 23-year marriage that included domestic violence and navigating a difficult divorce, she transformed her experiences into purpose-driven advocacy for healing, empowerment, and justice. Today, she is a survivor, mentor, and advocate whose heart is dedicated to causes such as domestic violence awareness, breast cancer support, and initiatives that uplift women. Despite personal and professional challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to service, using her voice and leadership to inspire others and create lasting impact for women and communities locally and globally.
• Rutgers University Master's Degree
• American Literature (United States)
• New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) Board - Chair of Latino Engagement
• Obama Foundation
• Latina Voice
• New Jersey Performing Arts- NJPAC
• White House Hispanic Prosperity Initiative
• G100
• Women Economic Forum and All Ladies League Honorary Life Member
• White House Hispanic Initiative on Education
• Mentoring college students through Obama Foundation
• Domestic violence advocacy
• Breast cancer advocacy
• Women's empowerment initiatives
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Get ready to go through ups and downs, but don't give up. If that's what your dream is, just go for it, no matter what. At the end of the day, you will succeed. Nobody opened the door for me - I had to open doors for myself, and I'm still trying to open the door for myself. It's been a journey, to say the least. But I think my legacy will be that I tried the best I could for the next generation of young ladies, which I mentor them. I like to open doors for other women.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my professional and personal life are integrity, service, empowerment, and resilience. I am deeply committed to creating opportunities that uplift others and ensure that women and underserved communities are seen, heard, and recognized. One of my most notable achievements has been bringing a global organization to New Jersey, expanding its reach and impact at the state level to elevate and celebrate extraordinary women. I have been greatly influenced by my grandmother, who served as a strong role model in my life and shaped my sense of purpose, strength, and compassion. Today, I continue that legacy through my work as a mentor, including my involvement with the Obama Foundation, where I support and guide emerging leaders. Outside of my professional commitments, I am passionate about tennis, which reflects my appreciation for discipline, focus, and balance in life.