Ambar Mendez

Ambar Mendez is a long-time advocate and organizer from Arkansas and proud Mexicana driven by a passion to empower women, people of color, and individuals with unconventional immigration status. As a DACA recipient who spent most of her life undocumented, Ambar began advocating for immigrants in Arkansas at a young age. She was the first individual to come out as undocumented and unafraid in the state of Arkansas when co-founding the Natural DREAMers that opened the path for others in the state to join the movement.

Ambar is the Director of Programs & Operations for New Leaders Council, an organization that trains and connects cross-industry leaders across the country. In her role at NLC HQ, Ambar manages over 45 chapters, developing and implementing sustainable processes that support volunteers nationwide throughout the programmatic cycle, including Institute, Recruitment, Selections, and Fundraising. Ambar is also responsible for organizing, planning, and executing the annual national convention, which draws approximately 350 attendees, speakers, and sponsors. Her personal and professional experiences have fueled her commitment to creating brave spaces where community leaders can advocate, organize, and confront adversity by using their voices to advance positive impact. Dedicated to addressing the historical and ongoing exclusion of communities, Ambar’s work has focused on breaking down silos for a nationwide movement with over 1,000 volunteers annually. In moments of chaos choosing to advocate for individuals facing uncertainty and inviting them to be part of the positive impact for their communities.

Living in Arkansas with her husband and three dogs—Google, Phoebe, and Alexa—she balances her professional life with interests in gaming, running, and occasionally cooking.