Bio

Helena Berbano is a 2nd generation Filipina American with over a decade of experience in nonprofit management, civic engagement, and political campaigns. They lead with the staunch belief that the most impacted communities have the solutions to the greatest challenges that face us.

Most recently they piloted the Gold Futures Challenge (GFC), a grants program that centered democratizing philanthropy by awarding half a million to Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) organizations via a public vote. Prior to launching GFC, she served as the first National Political Director for New American Leaders, the only organization dedicated to training and supporting New Americans to run for office. 

An experienced facilitator and trainer - she has spoken at numerous conferences and events such as the NGO Committee on the Status of Women Conference, Asian Americans / Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy Annual Conference, and the Power & Policy Conference. Topics included the importance of civic engagement, the role of nextgen philanthropy, running for office, and a slew of other topics focused on social impact.

In 2023 she was recognized as one of 15 Emerging Boston AAPI Leaders Under 40. She holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she was given the distinctions of McCormack Scholar, Keough Capstone Fellow, and Best Capstone for her research focused on women of color public office initiatives. They have previously served as co-chair of the inaugural Asian American Pacific Islander Caucus for the Massachusetts Democratic Party and the board of directors for New Leaders Council – Boston, Mass NOW, ASPIRE, and Young Democrats of Massachusetts.