Our dedicated team at the Maestro Cares Foundation is committed to changing lives and building brighter futures for children and communities across Latin America and the United States. Our board of directors, advisory team, and staff bring diverse skills and experiences to the table, working collaboratively to implement impactful projects in education, healthcare, and community development. Together, we focus on empowering future generations and fostering sustainable change. Discover the team behind our efforts and the work we do.
Board of Directors
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Henry Cárdenas
Marc Anthony
Amalia Gomez- Micone
Amalia Gomez- Micone is a committed, proactive, and creative professional with extensive experience in the nonprofit and business sectors. She has been involved with large scale organizations such as Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the DREAM Project, the American Heart Association, and World Central Kitchen. As a founding member of the Maestro Cares Foundation, Amalia has been dedicated to supporting underserved youth in the US and Latin America.
Having studied Spanish Literature and Communication at both New York University and the City University of New York, along with postgraduate studies at the Eugene M. Lang Entrepreneurship Center at Columbia University, Amalia is a key asset for organizations or businesses looking to expand and market their company. Her entrepreneurial, marketing, and communications background has made her invaluable to the organizations she serves through her targeted outreach and effective communication with donors and investors. Certified in Positive Psychology from Yale University, she incorporates evidence-based techniques and interventions to help organizations, their communities, and donors understand how to lead more fulfilling, purposeful, and meaningful lives.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Amalia serves on the Board of Trustees of the Monterey Museum of Art in Monterey, California. She is also a member of Shack15 and the Shack15 Angel Syndicate with Shack15 Ventures in San Francisco. Amalia's diverse background and commitment to various causes highlight her dedication to making a positive impact on the greater global community.
Bigram Zayas
Bigram Zayas is a partner in Looplabs, a collaborative cloud-based music studio that lets anyone, regardless of technical skills or ability, quickly and easily make professional quality music anywhere, anytime and with anyone.
Elena Sotomayor
Elena Sotomayor is the Executive Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships at Cárdenas Marketing Network. A senior-level brand experience and strategic alliance executive with over 20 years of experience in event, digital, and experiential marketing, Elena is recognized as a leader in the marketing industry with a proven track record of bringing in new business and partnerships, as well as activating national tours and experiential programs for live entertainment and several Fortune 500 brands.
Her keen ability to recognize growth opportunities within the entertainment, experiential, media, and branded content spaces and create experiential and digital synergies has led to her work with many 360-degree platforms and global brands such as Wrigley, Diageo, Anheuser-Busch, Sprint, Toyota, Advanced Auto Parts, U.S. Army, Burger King, Chevy, Johnson & Johnson, AARP, Neutrogena, American Airlines, Electrolit, Old Parr, and T-Mobile, among others.
As an entrepreneurial think tank, she directs and oversees various clients' national experiential and media programs across the country. Elena's specialty in providing high-quality Brand Concierge services and her ability to develop extensive marketing platforms from the ground up for her clients has also led to her success in managing partnerships with multiple Latin artist camps and international and national companies.
For 11 years, Elena has passionately and proudly served on the board of directors at the Maestro Cares Foundation. Her passion for children and combined skills in storytelling and marketing have helped Maestro Cares Foundation extend its reach and araised the visibility of its partners and projects across the globe.
Felipe Pimiento
Felipe Pimiento is a distinguished Music Entertainment Executive with over 20 years of experience in the Latin music industry. He currently manages the career of multi-Grammy award-winning artist Marc Anthony, a global ambassador of Latin music and culture.
Mr. Pimiento is the Chief Operating Officer at Magnus, a multifaceted entertainment company forging innovative connections between content creation and commerce. Magnus includes an artist management firm, talent booking agency, music publishing company, digital studios, music label, and new business division focused on leveraging the influence of prominent Latino content creators in the U.S. and globally.
His extensive background in live show production, content development, and strategic partnerships has led to collaborations with industry giants such as Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Celine Dion, Rihanna, Ricky Martin, Alejandro Sanz, Paulina Rubio, The Spice Girls, and Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson’s Immortal Tour.
Under Mr. Pimiento’s leadership, Marc Anthony and Magnus have undertaken ventures like creating the E1 Team Miami, an electric boat racing team part of the E1 Champions of the Water series. He was also instrumental in fostering the partnership between Marc Anthony and Bulova, leading to The Marc Anthony Collection, a line of watches designed by Marc Anthony. He also established a strategic partnership between Marc Anthony and Beliv, forming WeBelivMagnus, a joint venture creating Latin-inspired beverages. Their first product, OCA, a plant-based energy drink, launched in 2020 and is now sold in over 4,500 stores nationwide.
Before joining Magnus, Mr. Pimiento was Vice President of King Productions, Inc. He oversaw the production of the successful TV series “Q’Viva The Chosen,” collaborating as an Executive Producer with Simon Fuller, Jennifer Lopez, and Marc Anthony. The show was simulcast on both Univision and Fox in the US, fostering unparalleled marketing and media synergy in the entertainment industry.
Mr. Pimiento’s career is marked by his ability to merge artistic talent with strategic business initiatives, making significant contributions to the evolution of Latin music and entertainment on a global scale.
Peter Amaro
Peter Amaro is an experienced operator, entrepreneur, and investor with a diverse background in building and growing businesses across various sectors. Currently, he is the Managing Partner for L’ATTITUDE Ventures, a $100 million venture capital firm investing in businesses led by or driven by trends in the U.S. Latino cohort.
Previously, Peter served as a Partner at Morales Capital Partners, a family office led by Angel Morales, the former Co-Head of Merrill Lynch’s $6 billion private equity business. Peter worked exclusively with the team to evaluate $20-$75 million investments in healthcare, technology, and consumer sectors.
He also co-founded Luminary Media, a media and technology subscription podcast platform, that provided a broad array of award-winning exclusive podcast content. Raising over $100 million in venture funding, Luminary secured exclusive content from influential creators in the areas of sports, music and comedy.
As Vice President and an early member of The Raine Group, a global merchant bank focused on sports, media, and entertainment, Peter helped source, execute and manage a variety of investments across Raine’s more than $1.0 billion investment funds for the firm’s live events and digital media business. Previously, he worked in private equity and investment banking at Morgan Stanley, LaSalle Investment Management, and UBS. He also served on the boards of Wanderlust and HowStuffWorks, overseeing growth and exit strategies.
Peter is dedicated to civil service and philanthropy, serving on the boards of Maestro Cares, the Latino Donor Collaborative, University of California Merced, and St. Ignatius College Prep.
Peter holds a B.S. in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He resides in Chicago with his wife and son.
Advisory Committee
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David M. Hryck
David M. Hryck is a tax and business advisor and partner at Holland and Knight LLP. He specializes in cross-border investments and licensing, representing a broad range of clients, including celebrities, entertainers, designers, global companies, individuals, and international families. Known for his expertise in global transactions and business, Hryck is a trusted advisor, board member, and mentor to several trusts and global charities.
He serves on the board of directors for the Amy Winehouse Foundation and was a former chair of the Happy Hearts Fund, founded by Petra Nêmcová. Hryck is a World Fellow of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award for Excellence Fund, founded by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He advises on international interactions in Third World countries and was a U.S. member of the Duke’s Business Advisory Group, led by Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex. He is also a board member of the Lifeline Humanitarian Organization, founded by Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of former Yugoslavia.
Hryck is a board member of the Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development, founded by Vuk Jeremic, president of the United Nations General Assembly for the 67th Session. He co-chairs the board of directors of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, founded by pianist Lang Lang. Hryck is also a board member of Pencils for Promise (POPs), and serves as vice chair of the Asia Practice Committee at the Asian American Bar Association of New York. He joined the honorary board of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and recently joined the board of the Mariano Rivera Foundation, founded by Mariano Rivera.
Hryck was awarded the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2022 by the Ellis Island Honors Society.
Martha Korman Zumwalt
Martha Korman Zumwalt is an entrepreneur, mother, and philanthropist with extensive business, nonprofit, and philanthropic experience. She has served on the boards of the Albert Pujols Family Foundation and Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation and is an ambassador for the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC. More recently, she has dedicated time to Opportunity International, an organization that provides financial solutions and training to empower people living in poverty to transform their lives, their children's futures, and their communities. Since 2015, she has been a key member of the Maestro Cares Foundation Advisory Council, offering strategic and fundraising advice and serving as a founding committee member of the Annual Golf Outing.
Korman Zumwalt is known for her keen ability to develop partnerships and identify growth opportunities for both business and nonprofit organizations. She and her late husband founded National Graphic Imaging (NGI) as a family business, which matured into an employee-owned corporation. NGI started in 1986 with a $50,000 investment and grew annual revenues to over $26 million in 20 years, becoming the largest reprographics firm in the Southeastern United States.
In 2007, Korman Zumwalt sold NGI to American Reprographics Company (ARC), a NYSE-listed $400 million company. As VP of Business Development at ARC, she drove revenue in the Global Solutions Division from $6 million to $73 million in seven years.
Among her accolades, Korman Zumwalt was named Woman Business Owner of the Year in 1988 and received the Tampa Bay Business Journal Women in Business award in 2002.
Today, Korman Zumwalt enjoys spending time with her extended family, including her 13 grandchildren.
Perla Tamez Casasnovas
A successful business leader and entrepreneur, Perla Tamez is the CEO and founder of Latina Empire, a revolutionary women's growth movement that provides collaborative resources, spaces and growth opportunities for women-led businesses and entrepreneurs via conferences, training, events, and collaborative virtual spaces. Latina Empires’ focus is on empowering women through a unique method that integrates heart, mind, and money, emphasizing accountability and community to foster sustainable change.
Born in Hidalgo, TX, and raised by immigrant parents, Perla learned the values of hard work and dedication early on in her career. At just 21, Tamez founded her first company, setting the stage for a remarkable career as a visionary serial entrepreneur and licensed speech therapist. A successful business leader and entrepreneur, she created over 20 companies across 11 industries.
Combining her business acumen with a deep commitment to philanthropy, Tamez operates pediatric clinics and advocates for children's rights and health policies. In 2020, she collaborated with local leaders and businesses across the U.S. to distribute over $7 million in household products to over 400,000 families.
Driven by her passion for entrepreneurship and helping others, Tamez also launched The Love Soldiers Foundation, a nonprofit, which aims to enhance the efficiency and impact of other nonprofits. As a member of Maestro Cares Foundation’s advisory board, she has been key to raising the visibility of the foundation’s work and connecting Maestro Cares Foundation to individuals and organizations interested in our programs and projects. Perla Tamez's dedication to inspiring others to unleash their true potential has been the hallmark of her career, making her a prominent figure in both business and philanthropy.
Combining her business acumen with a deep commitment to philanthropy, Tamez operates pediatric clinics and advocates for children's rights and health policies. In 2020, she collaborated with local leaders and businesses across the U.S. to distribute over $7 million in household products to over 400,000 families.
Driven by her passion for entrepreneurship and helping others, Tamez also launched The Love Soldiers Foundation, a nonprofit, which aims to enhance the efficiency and impact of other nonprofits. As a member of Maestro Cares Foundation’s advisory board, she has been key to raising the visibility of the foundation’s work and connecting Maestro Cares Foundation to individuals and organizations interested in our programs and projects. Perla Tamez's dedication to inspiring others to unleash their true potential has been the hallmark of her career, making her a prominent figure in both business and philanthropy.
Leadership Team
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Zaidy Cárdenas
Executive Director
Zaidy Cárdenas is a mission-driven nonprofit leader with over a decade of experience advancing programs that empower underserved youth and communities across Latin America and the United States. A proud Chicago native, Zaidy’s passion for service began in childhood and deepened during a transformative volunteer trip to the Dominican Republic—an experience that helped inspire the creation of Maestro Cares Foundation.
As Executive Director, she has played a pivotal role in the organization’s growth and global impact. Under her leadership, Maestro Cares has expanded its footprint across more than 13 countries, building critical infrastructure including schools, homes, medical centers, and community facilities. She also oversees the Foundation’s robust scholarship program, which is opening doors to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Zaidy leads all facets of the organization’s strategic development, program execution, partnerships, and fundraising. She has successfully produced high-profile events such as annual galas, celebrity golf tournaments, and international donor experiences, raising millions in support each year.
Her expertise in event management and marketing has earned her recognition as a thought leader in the nonprofit and philanthropic space. Zaidy is known for her innovative approach to storytelling, donor engagement, and brand visibility, which has elevated Maestro Cares’ mission to a global audience. She is frequently sought after for her insights on nonprofit growth strategies, social impact partnerships, and the power of mission-driven marketing.
Fun Facts
Favorite part of working at Maestro Cares:
“I love seeing the impact our work is doing on the lives of vulnerable children, young adults, and communities. Seeing the change, we are making in so many lives inspires me to continue the work we do.”
Favorite quote:
“Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So spread your love everywhere you go.” – Mother Teresa
Betty Sanchez
Director of Finance
Betty graduated from Loyola University with a Bachelor of Business Administration and a minor in Finance. Her prior work opportunities allowed her to collaborate with incredible organizations, foundations, and the City of Chicago, which deepened her commitment to community-focused initiatives. When she learned about the impactful work of the Maestro Cares Foundation (MCF), she felt an immediate connection to its mission. Betty feels that supporting MCF means being part of a greater purpose—helping empower the next generation to break cycles of poverty and achieve their full potential. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, cooking, and experiencing different cultures through food and music. She also finds great joy in documenting her family’s history- gathering stories, photographs, and memories to preserve her heritage for future generations. Betty’s favorite quote is: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” - Muhammad Ali
Tracey Duer
Director of Operations
Tracey brings over 20 years of experience in Operations and Human Resources to Maestro Cares Foundation. She has a performance history of building strong organizational teams and fostering professional growth and development.
Powerful life lessons, experiences and diligence have taught her to make the most out of every opportunity and situation. These real experiences sculpted her into who she is today. She is a person who loves to see others succeed.
Tracey has dedicated years to public service, focusing on advocating for children with special needs and underprivileged families. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and scrapbooking. When not volunteering, she cultivates her own fruits and vegetables and indulges in the Harry Potter series.
Song that resonated with Tracey is Resilient by Rising Appalachia.
Fun Facts
Favorite thing about being part of the Maestro Cares Team: “Maestro embraces my personal mission and allows me to use my talents to help improve the lives of others".
Famous quote: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. “ Helen Keller
Katherine Celeita
Project Manager
Katherine is a passionate individual who always gives her best and loves taking on big goals with energy and a positive attitude. Putting her bachelor's degree in systems engineering from the University of Cundinamarca to good use, Katherine joined the Maestro Cares team excited to use her skills to create meaningful change. She feels that her role at the Maestro Cares Foundation is an extension of her purpose to give back and support others. Outside of work, Katherine enjoys kayaking and paddleboarding. Her favorite quote is: “Do what you love; love what you do.”
Mariana Gomez
Marketing Manager
Mariana is a driven and compassionate person who is passionate about making a positive impact. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications, Mariana enhanced her expertise by becoming an ICAgile Certified Professional and a Professional Scrum Product Owner. She was motivated to join the Maestro Cares team because of her belief in the Foundation’s transformative work- breaking cycles and creating opportunities for disadvantaged children and communities. Outside of work, Mariana enjoys reading nonfiction books, golfing, and spending time with her family. Her favorite quote is: “To change the world around us, we need to change ourselves first.”- Santosh Joshi
Marisol Carrillo
Fundraising Manager
Marisol double majored in International Business and Marketing at Indiana University Bloomington- Kelley School of Business. Maestro Cares Foundation’s mission is near and dear to her heart, as she has been a part of the organization for the past ten years. Meeting many of the children and beneficiaries of the organization, Marisol has found purpose working towards a worthy cause, which has made her life more fulfilling. Outside of work, Marisol enjoys yoga, experiencing new cultures through food and drinks, thrifting, and reading memoires and autobiographies. She also has her New York City tour guide license; although she never conducted any tours, she used this opportunity to learn everything she could about the history of the city. Marisol’s favorite quote is: “Nothing is absolute. Everything changes, everything moves, everything revolves, everything flies and goes away.” -Frida Kahlo
Simon Nascimento
Scholarship Program Manager
Simon graduated with his Bachelor of Arts with Honors in International Studies from the University of Chicago. He is deeply inspired by the Maestro Cares Foundation’s (MCF) commitment to providing safe and healthy environments and educational opportunities to support the growth and development of children and communities in need in Latin America. As a first-generation college student on a scholarship himself, Simon benefitted from the vision and generosity of donors and saw firsthand the transformative power of education. He is deeply grateful to be able to pay it forward in his role as Scholarship Program Manager at MCF. Outside of work, Simon enjoys karaoke with friends, learning new languages (he currently is brushing up on his Japanese and taking up French and Catalan), and taking care of his 40+ house plants. He is also a digital artist under the name #SDVNArt (www.sdvn.art), where he explores the intersection of technology and art. His favorite quotation is: “We tell people to follow their dreams, but you can only dream of what you can imagine, and, depending on where you come from, your imagination can be quite limited.”- Trevor Noah in Born a Crime
Supporting Team
Alexis Uribe - Project Coordinator
Allison Meyer - Content Editor
Beatriz Achabal - Marketing Associate
Cynthia Valentin - Development Specialist
Eva Nieves - Administrative Assistant
Jesus Ramirez-Guerrero - Accountant
Mariana Morales - Scholarship Coordinator
Maria Paula Barbosa - Development Coordinator
Rubi Salgado - Events & Development Specialist
Changing Lives, Building Dreams.
The Maestro Cares Foundation improves the quality of life of disadvantaged children and communities in Latin America and the United States. We do so by providing housing, educational programming, and the essential resources to support their growth and development. Through our efforts, we’re strengthening communities and helping children become tomorrow’s leaders.