OUR STAFF
We are incredibly fortunate to have an exceptional team of dedicated individuals at Afro-Latino Education & Arts Collective.
From our passionate volunteers to our committed staff members, each person brings their unique talents and unwavering commitment to our mission. Their collective expertise, creativity, and drive empower us to make a lasting impact in the Afro-Latino community and beyond.
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Sharon Cruz – Executive Director
(Puerto Rican & African American)
As the founder and Executive Director, Sharon leads the vision and strategic direction of the organization. A proud Black American Latina, she is deeply committed to education, cultural preservation, and social equity. She oversees programs, partnerships, and initiatives that uplift Afro-Latino voices, ensuring the collective continues expanding its impact. Her spirit is deeply rooted in the African Diasporic cultures of the Americas, reflecting a rich legacy of resilience, creativity, and connection. -
Nairobi Bruce – Event Coordinator
(African American with Louisiana Creole Roots)
Nairobi manages vendor relations and resource partnerships, ensuring events are supported by the best cultural and community-driven businesses. With deep Louisiana Creole roots, she brings passion and energy to every event, ensuring an experience as rich as the cultures it represents. -
Adargiza De Los Santos – Director of Talent Relations
(Afro-Dominican)
Born with the rhythm of the Dominican Republic in her soul, Adargiza connects with influential figures in entertainment, media, and the arts. She secures talent for events, fosters partnerships, and expands opportunities for Afro-Latino representation. -
Cristina Sasso – Director of Film and Media
(Afro-Panamanian)
Rooted in Panama, Cristina leads film and media initiatives, curating powerful narratives that amplify Afro-Latino voices. She ensures our stories are told with authenticity and impact across platforms, because representation isn’t just important—it’s essential. -
Dolly Figueroa – Director of Education & Community Engagement
(Hondureña) Dolly connects youth from all communities with meaningful educational and cultural experiences. Proud of her Hondureña heritage, she builds relationships with schools, educators, and youth organizations, fostering inclusive cross-cultural exchanges that promote diversity and understanding.
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Kyra N. Thompson - Cultural Design Consultant
(African American & Mexican – Blaxican) Kyra leads the design and development of web and digital experiences for the Afro-Latino Education and Arts Collective and Afro-Latino Culture Fest. Drawing on her Blaxican heritage, she merges culture, design, and storytelling to create immersive digital platforms. Her approach prioritizes accessibility, engagement, and authenticity—ensuring each project reflects the core mission of celebrating and advancing Afro-Latino culture.
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Crystal Johnson & Javon Curry – Beverage & Cocktail Experience Managers
(Belizean Heritage)
As part of ALEAC, Crystal and Javon lead the cocktail bar experience at all our events, curating a selection of Afro-Caribbean-inspired beverages that celebrate the flavors of the diaspora. With strong Belizean roots, they bring the vibrance, warmth, and rhythm of the Caribbean and African Diaspora to every gathering. They are also the founders of Paradise Society, a cocktail catering business specializing in Piña Coladas, Rum Punch, Mojitos, Sangria, and other signature drinks, ensuring an immersive and culturally rich beverage experience at every festival and event. -
Ariela Conde – Director of Cultural Dance & Stage Management
(Cuban & Puerto Rican)
Ariela brings energy, education, and movement to every event as the Teaching Artist for all things dance at the Afro-Latino Education and Arts Collective. Specializing in Afro-Cuban folkloric and Latin dance styles, she teaches engaging, quick-step lessons in Salsa, Rumba, Merengue, and more—helping students and festival attendees connect with the cultural roots of these rhythms. Beyond the dance floor, Ariela plays a key role in event operations as our Stage Manager, overseeing stage logistics and leading the coordination team to ensure seamless performances and programming at every event.