Email: Monica@egbi.org

Monica Peña is a respected leader in the Greater Austin area, recognized for her work in organizing dynamic business networking groups and empowering entrepreneurs across Central Texas. As a skilled social media strategist and trainer, Monica brings her expertise to EGBI, where she supports clients in the areas of business marketing, digital promotion, social media, project and time management, and effective follow-through.

As the co-founder and social media manager of her first successful family-owned business, Monica helped the company earn The Austin American-Statesman Social Media Award for providing valuable tips, community outreach, and environmentally friendly practices. She was honored by Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas as Estrella de Tejas for her significant contributions to the community and for being a role model to fellow members.

She is the founder of MUNDU Media, a company that specializes in helping clients elevate their online presence and marketing strategies. Monica also coaches entrepreneurs on how to maximize networking opportunities, leverage membership benefits, and cultivate lasting connections that drive business growth. She trains company teams to enhance brand visibility and engagement, equipping them with the tools to stand out in a competitive market.

Monica is passionate about helping small businesses succeed and has developed a proven approach that blends online and offline efforts to help professionals make a lasting impact in their communities.

Email: hector@egbi.org

Amanda has a degree in Global Studies from Azusa Pacific University. She is passionate about serving others. She is a certified Bilingual Early Childhood -4 th Grade educator and has worked for many years for Austin ISD. Amanda’s background in business stems from her childhood where she was part of a family owned small business, managing the accounting and office to learning Quickbooks and providing accounting services for her own family owned business here in Austin.

Amanda is also proud of being a mother to her two children, ages 14 and 11. She has lived in Austin for many years, but her childhood was spent in Mexico where she spent the first years of her life. Her hobbies include traveling, walking and swimming.

Freddy Alvarez is a bilingual business coach, advisor, and operations strategist who partners with individuals and organizations to build resilient teams, elevate performance, and create sustainable growth. With more than 20 years of experience leading complex operations across U.S. and LATAM markets, Freddy brings a rare blend of executive-level business acumen, people-first leadership, and real-world operational insight to his coaching and advisory work.

Drawing from leadership roles at SpaceX, Amazon, and Rent-A-Center and other major retailers, Freddy has coached and developed leaders at every level, from frontline managers to senior executives, helping them navigate ambiguity, scale responsibly, and lead with clarity and confidence. His approach is grounded in servant leadership, emphasizing trust, accountability, and intentional decision-making that aligns people, performance, and purpose.

Freddy’s coaching style is practical, reflective, and results-driven. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, he partners with clients to uncover strengths, challenge limiting beliefs, and translate insight into action. His work often focuses on leadership effectiveness, operational discipline, performance management, and building cultures where people feel empowered to own outcomes and grow.

With deep experience in customer success, multi-site operations, and full P&L leadership, Freddy advises organizations on scaling teams, improving customer experience, optimizing performance metrics, and developing leadership pipelines. He frequently works at the intersection of operations and people strategy—helping leaders move from reactive problem-solving to proactive, sustainable execution.

A United States Marine, ex professional soccer player and coach, and black belt in self-defense, Freddy brings a disciplined yet empathetic perspective to his coaching. These experiences inform his belief that great leadership is built through consistency, resilience, and self-awareness.

Beyond his one-on-one coaching and advisory work, Freddy is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and fostering strong professional communities. He designs conversations and engagements that encourage reflection, accountability, and meaningful growth, helping individuals and organizations lead with purpose, confidence, and impact.

Email: Pablo@egbi.org

Pablo Arredondo is the Program Coordinator at EGBI, where he supports entrepreneurs through business education and community-driven initiatives. With a background in communications and hands-on experience in both business and the culinary arts, Pablo brings a unique perspective to his role.

He previously worked in the Languages and Literature Department at Sul Ross State University.  He is also a certified chef and co-founder of his family owned  pizza business in Ojinaga, Mexico. Currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration at St. Edward’s University, Pablo is a member of the Delta Mu Delta business honor society and has earned a place on the Dean’s List. In 2025, he represented his university at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) student competition in Las Vegas, highlighting his leadership and entrepreneurial mindset. Beyond his academic and professional pursuits,

Pablo is deeply committed to community service, having volunteered at his church for the past three summers. He enjoys playing basketball, exploring local coffee shops, and listening to music — passions that keep him grounded and inspired.

Katherine Garcia is a senior at Eastside Early College High School with aspirations to study Criminal Justice and Business Administration after graduation. A first-generation college-bound student, Katherine has already demonstrated strong leadership skills, earning a Leadership Award at Eastside and actively volunteering with nonprofit organizations that support children and communities in need.

Passionate about making a positive impact, Katherine is committed to blending academic excellence with community engagement. Outside of academics, she enjoys biking, swimming, and exploring music, activities that fuel creativity and balance. With a drive to serve others and pursue higher education, Katherine looks forward to building a career that empowers people and strengthens communities

Antonio Salas is a business and product strategy leader based in the Austin area and currently serves as Field Product Marketing Lead for Enterprise Solutions at Dell Technologies. He brings extensive experience in strategy, analytics, and go-to-market execution across large, complex organizations.

Antonio has worked across multiple industries and international markets, combining rigorous data analysis with practical business judgment. He is particularly passionate about economic development, entrepreneurship, and helping small businesses scale sustainably through better strategy, pricing, and operational clarity.

As a board member of the Economic Growth Business Incubator, Antonio focuses on strengthening EGBI’s strategic impact, supporting founders with real-world business insight, and advancing inclusive economic growth in the Central Texas community.

Laura Ramos James is the founder and owner of Ramos James Law, PLLC, a prominent personal injury law firm based in Austin, Texas. Specializing in cases involving serious injury and death, Laura has a particular focus on serving Spanish-speaking clients in the state.

She is an active member of various legal associations, including the Capital Area Trial Lawyers Association and the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, where she contributes to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. Laura’s dedication to her profession has earned her recognition, including being named a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers™ for five consecutive years and receiving accolades such as Up-and-Coming 100: Texas Rising Stars and Up-and-Coming 50: Women Texas Rising Stars.

Her commitment to advocacy extends beyond the courtroom, as she volunteers her time and resources to local nonprofit organizations. Laura’s achievements and contributions have been celebrated by both legal and community organizations, cementing her reputation as a top attorney and community leader in Austin.

Luis Delgado is a technology professional with a unique international background and a strong passion for building community connections. Born in El Paso, Texas and raised in Mexico City, he later returned to the United States to attend The University of Texas at El Paso, where he earned a degree in Finance with a minor in Information Technology. This blend of skills set the stage for his future as an entrepreneur.

In 2003, Luis founded The Critical Update, Inc (TCUINC) with a clear mission: to help small businesses use technology to grow, operate more efficiently, and stay secure. For more than two decades, he has enjoyed supporting business owners and becoming a trusted partner in their success.

Luis is also deeply committed to giving back. He serves on several non-profit boards and advisory committees, contributing his expertise to strengthen and support the Austin business community.

Outside of work, Luis is a devoted husband and father of two. In his free time, he loves connecting with others over a good cup of coffee and learning what inspires fellow business owners.

Mike Lancaster is a Senior Vice President at Broadway Bank‘s with more than 30 years of experience in thebanking industry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Mike earned his degree in Business Management from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

In his role at Broadway Bank, Mike builds trusted relationships with business clients, helping guide them through every stage of the business lifecycle. His areas of expertise include business development, commercial and SBA lending, working capital solutions, equipment financing, business transition planning, and treasury management. Mike believes the strongest banking relationships are built on trust, consistency, and long-term partnership.

Mike resides in Round Rock, Texas with his wife, Kelly, and their twin sons, Zane and Tyler. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities with his family, traveling, and exploring new restaurants. Mike is a graduate of Leadership Round Rock, Class of 2014, and the Ascend Leadership Program, Class of 2025. He remains actively involved in the community and currently serves on the Board of EGBI, as a Board Member of the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce, and as a member of EO Austin and the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association (ARMA).

Robert Shipman serves as Executive Vice President of Commercial Banking for Frost Bank in Austin. With over 21 years in banking, including 15 years at Frost, Robert leads a team of commercial bankers focused on business development, lending, client relationships, and community engagement.

He is committed to building long-term partnerships and advancing Frost Bank’s mission to be a force for good in the Austin community.

A multi-generational Texas native, Robert earned his degree from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, TX. He is an active community volunteer, currently serving on the board of EGBI Austin and supporting organizations across the Austin area.

Wellington “Richy” Echegaray has over 15 years of portfolio management experience and has led extensive IT projects for many high-profile clients. His expertise in managing project teams and navigating client escalations has also informed his community organizing work.

An active community leader, Richy has served on several Austin-area boards, including the Young Hispanic Professionals Association of Austin (YHPAA), Council At-Risk Youth (CARY), and Austin’s Project Management Institute Local Chapter. His passion for uplifting the community through education and economic growth aligns perfectly with the mission of EGBI.

Yolanda Davila is senior vice president and Southwest territory executive of PNC’s Community Development Banking encompassing Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico and Texas. In this role, she leads community development lending, investment, and community outreach strategies, Community Reinvestment Act performance, and led the regional implementation of PNC’s $88 billion 2022-25 commitment to bolster economic opportunities in low-and moderate-income communities.

Davila joined PNC through the BBVA USA acquisition and has over a decade of senior leadership experience with the bank. Her professional career also includes 10 years as a Texas Legislative Budget Board senior analyst where she worked with various stakeholders including members of the legislature, state and local agencies, and state service recipients conducting state agency performance reviews resulting in efficiencies, cost savings, and increased revenues.

Active in the community, Davila is a member of the board for LiftFund, chair of the IDEA Public Schools Texas regional board and former chair of PeopleFund, Workers Defense Project, and Foundation Communities.

She is a roundtable member of the Texas Association of Community Development Corporations.

Davila is a proud first-generation college graduate receiving a BA in Political Science from Williams College in

Massachusetts, and a MPA from the LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas in Austin.

Meet Alexander Williams, the visionary Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Aura Rainwater, where sustainability and innovation converge to catalyze transformative solutions. With over a decade of industry leadership and unwavering commitment to ethical business practices, Alexander curates a team of like-minded individuals to shape a future rooted in sustainability and environmental consciousness.

As a captivating Keynote Speaker, he enlightens nationwide audiences on sustainability, hydration, environmental justice, and rainwater harvesting, leaving lasting impacts. Alexander’s advocacy for equitable access to pristine water sources and inclusive decision-making is a hallmark of his leadership. He pioneers rainwater harvesting innovation, offering unparalleled expertise.

Alexander believes Aura Rainwater represents not only a solution to water needs but the key to true body hydration. Join him in this sustainable journey!

Alina Tapia Romero is a Licensed Commercial Insurance Specialist Agency Owner in Austin, TX. With 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, Alina is an independent agent committed to finding you the best rate by working with multiple carriers. Her passion extends beyond making a sale; she am dedicated to educating her clients about the coverages they purchase, ensuring they understand their policies fully. At Eazy Start Insurance Agency, personalized service and informed decision-making are at the heart of what we do.

Amber Kani is a passionate advocate for economic opportunity with more than 15 years of experience in community development finance and nonprofit leadership, where she has successfully scaled fundraising, financial education, and volunteer engagement for mission driven organizations. As Chief Engagement Officer for DreamSpring, Amber leads philanthropy and capitalization, external affairs and strategic messaging, business development, and community engagement. She is deeply connected to economic equity, including board service with the Financial Literacy Coalition of Central Texas, Texas Association of Community Development Corporations, Economic Growth Business Incubator, and On the Road Lending. Amber received her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin and her master’s degree from Georgetown University. She also holds certificates from Cornell University (women’s entrepreneurship), the Clinton Global Initiative University (social impact), the Engalitcheff Institute for Comparative Political and Economic Systems (economics), and Neighborworks (organizational leadership succession). She is a Bank of America Neighborhood Builder Emerging Leader, Association of Economic Opportunity Rising Star, Future Leader in Philanthropy honoree, and graduate of Leadership Austin. Amber resides in Austin with her husband and twin sons.

Debra is a resilient entrepreneur who has built a diverse portfolio of businesses. She is the owner of Gaines Royal Transport (GRT), a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) business built on hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to improving access to healthcare. Her journey as a business owner has shaped her into both a self-motivator and a source of inspiration for others navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Through her work, Debra is especially passionate about serving the elderly and individuals with driving disabilities, recognizing the vital role transportation plays in their ability to access medical care, attend appointments, and maintain independence.

Her dedication to helping these communities is at the heart of her business, where she strives to provide safe, reliable, and compassionate transportation with a royal-like touch. Through the support of EGBI, Debra has expanded her business acumen, gaining valuable insights that have fueled her passion for community service and further strengthened her resolve as a small business advocate. Debra is committed to empowering others in entrepreneurial spaces, particularly those with a shared commitment to making a positive impact on vulnerable populations.

Ivan Garcia is the Vice President of Lending and Community Manager at SouthStar Bank, bringing 15 years of expertise in mortgage lending. He is committed to expanding SouthStar Bank’s presence in Austin’s Eastern Crescent and is passionate about creating homeownership opportunities in historically underserved communities. Ivan also serves as the Government Affairs Chair for the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) Austin Chapter and was recognized as a NAHREP Top 100 Regional Loan Officer in 2021.

Jesus is a AVP Branch Manager at Keystone Bank, where he manages the retail side for the Austin location. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation, expanding the business of the branch and small business development.

He has been working in banking for over ten years across the state of Texas. Jesus focuses on developing deep ties in the communities he works, and helping persons reach their financial goals. He has worked on a variety of entrepreneurship programs and financial literacy classes, delivering them in person and virtual platforms.

Kitty Bird is an Austin-based event photographer capturing the energy of business events, retreats, and community gatherings. Her specialty is shooting how it feels to be at the moment, delivering people-centered images that focus on real connection and engagement. Described as a “snappy ninja with a camera” and a “fly on the wall with a big smile,” she blends in to secure authentic moments that turn into powerful, evergreen marketing assets for your brand. Dropped into the middle of the action with her camera and she is at her happy place.

Maria Elena Rivera is the Owner and Founder of Monarca Bookkeeping & Tax Services LLC, bringing over two decades of experience in financial reporting, bookkeeping operations, and tax support services. She specializes in streamlining financial processes, developing efficient procedures, and training teams to maintain accurate records and compliance across complex, multi-entity businesses.

She specializes in full-cycle bookkeeping, payroll and payroll tax compliance, financial reporting, month-end and year-end close, sales tax, and income tax preparation support. Maria Elena is highly skilled in QuickBooks Online, Pro, Enterprise, and Accountant editions, and is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor, known for her ability to review, clean up, and optimize financial records to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance.

With deep expertise in general ledger maintenance and financial analysis, Maria Elena helps business owners gain clarity and confidence in their financial information. She is committed to operational excellence, integrity, and fostering financial clarity for her clients.

Miranda Collins is the owner of ‘I Am Ready Swim,’ a commercial aquatics company servicing pools all over Austin and surrounding areas. The company offers lifeguards, pool monitors, and pool maintenance. Miranda is married to her high school sweetheart, Dajour Collins, who is now a co-owner and runs most of the pool monitors and all the pool maintenance.

They have over 40 different locations and are expanding to the San Antonio area as well. They love mentoring and helping others and currently have over 235 employees, whom they absolutely adore. During the off-season, Miranda and Dajour love to travel, attend as many football games as possible, and explore other business ventures, including their recent endeavor into commercial real estate. In the future, they would like to franchise their business and start a non-profit to help and mentor the youth.

Yolis Rodríguez was born in Mexico, she is a mother of three and has been married for 31 years. She graduated from the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León with a degree in Public Relations and became a licensed Cosmetology Instructor in Texas in 2018, starting her own beauty business 19 years ago.

She currently leads a team of three and serves as an ambassador for a major haircare brand. Yolis offers free classes to over 117,000 stylists and is actively involved in non-profit organizations. Her business has been recognized by Expertise and recommended by Google.

In her free time, she enjoys exercising and hiking. Her goal is to continue educating new stylists and supporting entrepreneurs in pursuing their dreams. Her story is a testament to resilience and determination, showing that limits can be broken and fears overcome on the path to success.