Elena Zavalza is the outgoing Director of Strategic Partnerships at notMYkid, bringing over a decade of expertise in mental health to her role. She holds a Master of Science in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University, which has shaped her understanding of the complex dynamics that influence youth and family well-being. Having worked extensively in areas such as infant mental health and family support, Elena’s commitment to fostering meaningful change in the lives of youth and their families is at the core of her work.

Since joining notMYkid, Elena has been inspired by the organization’s life changing impact on families. Elena draws from her personal experiences to connect with families, delivering programs that resonate on a meaningful and transformative level. If she could tell her younger self one thing, it would be to trust that her parents were right all along, as they ultimately became her best friends.

Elena is passionate about ensuring that Spanish-speaking families have access to the resources and support they need. Her focus on health equity drives her efforts to create inclusive programs that address the unique challenges faced by underserved communities. Elena’s ability to connect with families across cultural and linguistic lines reflects her commitment to ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and supported.