New Mexico– The New Mexico Dream Team, the largest immigrant youth-led organization in New Mexico and an affiliate of United We Dream, has welcomed Fernanda Banda as their new Co-Executive Director. Fernanda was formerly a part of United We Dream’s organizing team where she worked tirelessly to support our affiliate organizations and their memberships. In response to this exciting news, United We Dream and the New Mexico Dream Team released the following statements:
Greisa Martinez Rosas, Executive Director of United We Dream, said:
“This is a moment filled with promise and purpose. Fernanda Banda brings a rare combination of strategic brilliance, deep organizing roots, and the kind of moral clarity that moves people to action. Alongside Felipe Rodriguez—New Mexico Dream Team’s brilliant Co-Director, the members of the New Mexico Dream Team will continue to lead with the urgency and courage of a generation refusing to wait its turn—reminding us of the power of young voices to transform systems. Together, they represent a new model of leadership—rooted in vision, integrity, and a deep belief in collective liberation. NMDT is more prepared than ever to grow and lead. United We Dream is proud to walk alongside them in this work.”
Fernanda Banda, Co-Executive Director of the New Mexico Dream Team, said:
“Rejoining NMDT in this new capacity is a full-circle moment for me. I began my journey here in 2019 as a member, stepped into leadership through the Advocacy team, and later served as the Campaigns Manager. I have refined my vision and strategy with United We Dream over the last two years and now return with a renewed and sharper commitment. We are the leaders we’ve been waiting for! I’m stepping into this new role with a steady spine and a deepened belief in the power of organized youth. All my heroes are immigrants, and all my courage comes from them. I’m excited to continue building lessons, laughter, and love with this community. In this serious moment for my people and the future of our youth, I intend to meet it with clarity, courage, and compassion.”
Felipe Rodriguez, Co-Executive Director of the New Mexico Dream Team, said:
“I am fortunate to lead alongside Fernanda. She is a shining example of the New Mexico Dream Team’s leadership development. Her commitment and talent, shaped by her experience as an immigrant, have been honed by our rigorous training and political development. I am excited to see how we take the New Mexico Dream Team to the next level.”
