(She/Her)

Ivana Buenopena is a Teen Center Coordinator at LEAP for Education. This non-profit organization empowers students to achieve social and economic mobility by cultivating personal, educational, and career growth. As a Teen Center Coordinator, Ivana works closely with other Teen Center staff and students from 14-18+ who are involved in the programs to ensure they get the most out of participating. Ivana collaborates to provide and encourage students to take advantage of LEAP experiences and opportunities that are not always fully provided during school hours, such as budgeting, life skills, etc. Ivana previously acted as the lead facilitator to a group called Social Justice Initiative, which allows students to voice their opinions surrounding race, identity, and equity. Before this role, Ivana worked at the YWCA of Northeastern Mass. During this time, she worked as Relief Staff for a Domestic Violence Shelter and Teen Parenting Program. She also worked with the youth as a Lead Educator for students aged 5-12 in the after-school program. Ivana received a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, with a minor in psychology, while attending Fisher College in Boston. She plans to further her education and work towards a Master's in Counseling. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, which include her mom, sisters, and dog. Aside from that, focusing on personal growth and going on exciting spur-of-the-moment adventures with her partner.