About Ivonne Simms (she/her)

Ivonne has over 20 years of comprehensive experience developing strong programs and relationships to expand educational access to historically underserved communities. In addition, she has a talent for teaching that has translated successfully from middle school math, to adult GED classes, to freshman seminar at a community college.

After relocating to Atlanta, Ivonne took a role with a non-profit that really allowed her to grow and flourish. As regional manager she was the face and voice in the Southeast, setting the tone for their work with over 30 independent schools, numerous partner organizations, and over 500 families annually. She relished in supporting students and their families through their educational journey, and the organization enjoyed tremendous growth under her leadership. Ivonne is excited to use her natural gift for connecting with people to train nonprofit leaders with Candid. She is particularly interested in creating equitable practices that will help under resourced organizations doing impactful work. Making the world better has always been a motivation in her work.

Ivonne holds degrees from Boston University and Baruch College. When she isn't exploring new restaurants, singing, or hanging out with her family, you are sure to find her on the tennis court competing, or just enjoying the game with friends.

About Dido Balla, (he/him)

A passionate Speaker, Educator, and Entrepreneur, Dido graduated with a Master’s of Science in Secondary Education from the Johns Hopkins University School of Education. Dido has seven years of experience as a High School teacher, and he is also the founder of a non-profit organization called FitLit, whose mission is to use a blended curriculum of fitness and literacy to empower youth. As an experienced brain trainer, Dido has positively impacted hundreds of parents and educators as well as thousands of students in the areas of emotional intelligence, mindful awareness, and positive psychology. His work has expanded throughout the United States as well as abroad in Jordan, Brazil, Grenada, Australia, China, and the Philippines. Dido is currently the Global Director of Training and Partnerships for the Goldie Hawn Foundation, where his focus is to maximize the impact of MindUP in schools, communities, and families. He is on a mission to make the world a happier, more productive, and more fulfilled place.

About Virginia Almendarez

Virginia Almendarez has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 15 years as a lead fundraiser, raising millions of dollars supporting organizations in youth development, the arts, environmental conservation, historic preservation, education and disaster relief. Virginia has worked with local and iconic institutions such as: The Apollo Theater, Alvin Ailey Dance Company, The Point Community Development Corporation, the Puerto Rican Conservation Trust and New York University. With a commitment to life-long learning, Virginia also facilitates leadership training through Momentum Education, where participants get to design the life they dream about.

She now serves as a Startup Coach with IFundWomen and is the Founder of KWĒN, a petite activewear line. IFundWomen is the go-to funding marketplace for women-owned businesses and all the people who want to support them, from individuals to enterprises. IFundWomen provides online fundraising services, expert business coaching on all the topics entrepreneurs need to know about, and a network of women business owners.

Virginia graduated with a degree in Business Management from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Master’s degree in Performing Arts Administration from New York University. She is a member of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and was the inaugural Executive Director of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation.