Christian Latina Leadership Blog

By Marcela Ordaz

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This year I celebrate my 44th birthday with the certainty that I would not exchange the energy of my 20s for the wisdom and determination of my 40s. Every decade shapes and strengthens us, and today more than ever, I know that women are called to lead with purpose.

We have seen women break barriers and occupy spaces where they did not have a voice before: prime ministers, executives in large industries, women in key positions both at the Vatican and in many Protestant denominations, and community leaders who transform realities. The message is clear: we do not need to fight for our place, we just have to prepare because the world is already changing, and we are changing with it.

This year, the Christian Latina Leadership Institute (CLLI) celebrates 20 years of empowering women who have taken the reins of their destiny, under God’s direction, and have decided to prepare and strengthen themselves in order to lead.

Our purpose remains steadfast: to equip more women with tools to lead in their communities, churches, and professions. As part of this year’s celebrations, one of our goals is to reach $20,000 in donations during 2025, but the real goal remains to boost the growth of each woman who decides to prepare for her calling. It is not just about taking a seat at the table; it is about changing the conversation and creating new opportunities.

God’s power is perfected in our weakness, and in that truth, we find the strength to keep moving forward. It is not about proving anything to anyone, but about recognizing that what you have achieved is a gift and a responsibility that inspires other women, young women and girls to believe that they can, too.

During these 20 years we have heard many inspiring testimonies that invite us to move forward. We want to share some of these testimonies with you.

Alondra Bustamente – CLLI North Carolina:

Starting the CLLI training was the best decision! The classes have been very edifying, helpful, and a blessing to me! Having been raised in an environment where women were seen as inferior, the CLLI classes have taught me about women’s value, dignity, and calling. Now, my goal is to share this knowledge with other women who face a similar experience as mine.

Vania A. López – CLLI Metepec:

Taking the CLLI courses has helped me to dissipate a great fog that affected my life, and to confirm that God has great plans for me. Each of the classes has filled my heart with order, understanding, and peace. I can only express gratitude for being in this privileged place of study.

Sara Vargas – CLLI North Carolina:

CLLI has helped me so much in my formation as a leader. It is a training that encompasses the struggles of women, both from a gender and ethnic perspective. Being a leader represents much responsibility, and the CLLI is precisely there to educate and prepare the leader within us.

Rosario Gutiérrez Dorantes – CLLI Ciudad de México:

For a long time, I prayed that God would reveal my specific ministry. CLLI came as an answer to this prayer. It helped me discern my gifts and the best way to use them. Although CLLI’s main focus is leadership, the education is holistic as it includes all areas of life. For this reason, today I am a better leader for God’s glory. Thanks to all the people who support this ministry because they are helping me to achieve God’s purpose for my life.

As we reflect on these 20 years, we are so grateful for all the testimonies of transformation and empowerment that we have heard among the members of the CLLI community. At the same time, we look forward to what God will continue to do in the members of this community.

God continues to call us to transform ourselves and serve God better. Are you ready for your moment? What is the next step you will take on your path to more influential, productive, and effective leadership?