Celebrating Executive Director Gaby Millán’s Acceptance into the Chicano Federation Leadership Training Institute (LTI) Fellows Program

At the heart of the Teens Rise Foundation (TRF) is a leader whose passion fuels its mission: Gaby Millán. As Executive Director, Gaby has long dedicated herself to empowering South Bay youth and addressing the systemic barriers they face. Recently, her dedication to equity and leadership was recognized with her acceptance into the Chicano Federation of San Diego County’s Leadership Training Institute (LTI) Fellows Program.

Leading with Purpose

Gaby Millán’s deep connection to the South Bay communities of San Ysidro and Chula Vista stems from her own experiences growing up in a low-income household. Raised by a single mother as the youngest of nine, Gaby understands firsthand the challenges of food insecurity, housing instability, and navigating life as a first-generation college student. These experiences shaped her commitment to creating opportunities for underserved youth and breaking the cycle of poverty.

With a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies, Gaby has dedicated over 15 years of her career to addressing inequalities. As the leader of TRF, she ensures that the organization’s programs are culturally responsive, meeting the specific needs of South Bay youth by embedding services directly in schools and co-developing initiatives with the community. She is exactly the type of leader who contributes to any leadership moment.

The Chicano Federation Leadership Training Institute (LTI) Fellows Program

Established in 1985, the Chicano Federation’s LTI Fellows Program develops community leaders from the Chicano and Latine communities. The program selects 30 fellows each year, equipping them with the skills to address challenges their communities face. This year, Gaby Millán was selected to participate and awarded the prestigious Norma Jasso Scholarship.

The LTI Fellows Program provides comprehensive training in areas such as leadership development, policy analysis, and community organizing. Its culturally relevant curriculum focuses on Chicano/Latine history, educational equity, immigration, health disparities, and more. Through year-long mentorship, fellows gain tools to lead with impact and create lasting change in their communities.

Leadership for Lasting Change

For Gaby, joining the LTI Fellows Program offers a unique opportunity to deepen her expertise in advocacy and leadership. The program’s emphasis on culturally relevant leadership aligns with her own journey as an advocate for equity in the South Bay. As a leader, she knows the value of representation and community engagement—principles at the core of both TRF and the LTI Fellows Program.

Gaby’s work at TRF already reflects many of the LTI’s core areas. TRF’s programs are co-developed with schools and community stakeholders, ensuring that they meet students’ needs and remove barriers to participation. Through the LTI Fellows Program, Gaby will gain new skills in policy analysis, fundraising, and advocacy, which will further empower her to champion the needs of South Bay youth.

For those inspired by Gaby’s leadership and TRF’s mission, we invite you to join us on this journey. By supporting TRF’s programs or getting involved, you can help create more opportunities for the youth of South Bay.