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  • Charlotte, NC, 28203
 
Dancing club
Don't create in isolation, create in collaboration.

Gina Esquivel

Chief Executive Officer- Founder

Gina Esquivel, originally from Costa Rica, has made Charlotte her home since 1995, a time when Eastland Mall was bustling and the Panthers were new to the city. Her unique combination of life experiences, education, and career accomplishments makes her a powerful advocate for social justice.
A dynamic and creative strategist, she helps organizations answer key questions about strategy, culture, community engagement, and leadership development.
With over 30 years of experience in social services, Gina has contributed to a wide range of areas, including domestic violence, public health, poverty, housing, historical exhibits, and racial inclusion. This includes the design and implementation of Project HOPE, a $2 million Rapid Rehousing Project; Equity Assessments for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library; and recent research in collaboration with the Urban Institute and Mecklenburg County to produce a full report on corporate-owned rentals. Gina recently completed a full curriculum design for the Homeless and Housing Services of Mecklenburg County.
Gina holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education and Counseling from the National University of Costa Rica and a Master's Degree in Change Management and Leadership from Pfeiffer University. She has worked with several of Charlotte’s most respected nonprofits, such as the Lee Institute, Read Charlotte, Crisis Assistance Ministry, Levine Museum of the New South, Catholic Social Services, and Metrolina AIDS Project. As a dedicated volunteer, she has served on boards including the Women+Girls Research Alliance and the Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund. Currently, she is a board member for both the North Carolina Arts Council (appointed by Governor Josh Stein), Crisis Assistance Ministry, and Women’s Intercultural Exchange.
A proud graduate of the Leadership Development Initiative (LDI) Class VI, Leadership America North Carolina Chapter, and the American Leadership Forum (ALF) Class of 2017, Gina is also the recipient of the WFAE 2024 EQUALibrium Social Justice/Community Advocacy Award.
Beyond her professional life, Gina nurtures her creative spirit through social impact photography. She also embraces her passion for technology and social sciences, staying up-to-date with the latest trends. If you're interested in a lively discussion, ask her about artificial intelligence and its impact on social change.

Public Speaking

A seasoned public speaker, Gina Esquivel brings her life history, professional perspective, and unique angle on social issues to the stage. Esquivel is a dynamic speaker who engages audiences with her charisma and sense of humor. Her life's journey has led her to explore the depths of many social causes. If you are looking to alter and disrupt familiar perspectives, you want Gina on the stage.