At the core of the Southwest Organizing Project’s (SWOP) mission is a commitment to developing leaders and building community power. SWOP invests in people by creating opportunities for growth, offering leadership development, and walking alongside emerging leaders as they discover their strengths, clarify their goals, and envision change for their communities. Often, leadership is born when someone steps into an opportunity they never imagined for themselves—supported by organizers and mentors who help turn that leap of faith into lasting impact.

Imaltzin Astorga’s journey at SWOP reflects that commitment in action. She began as a Contact Tracer during the COVID-19 pandemic, connecting with community members to share critical public health information. Her dedication, care, and ability to build trust quickly stood out. From there, Imaltzin continued to grow into roles as a Public Health Ambassador, Digital Equity Organizer, and New Americans Initiative (NAI) Coordinator, consistently demonstrating strong organizing and communication skills, flexibility, and a deep commitment to ensuring community members felt heard and supported.

Today, Imaltzin takes on a new chapter in her leadership journey. Alongside her continued work as NAI Coordinator, she has stepped into the role of Program Support Manager for SWOP’s Parent Engagement Institute. Reflecting on her growth, Imaltzin shares, “Seeing my evolution at SWOP has made me reflect on the importance of investing in leaders. Had I not been invested in, I wouldn’t be here. I’m grateful for the leaders at SWOP who gave me these opportunities and pushed me to take on new projects and challenges.” Having worked across health, immigration, digital equity, and parent engagement, Imaltzin credits her willingness to step outside her comfort zone for shaping her into a stronger organizer and leader. “If you don’t accept challenges,” she says, “you can’t go as far as you’d like.”

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