Learn how your Personal Story can drive real Policy Change!

Presenter:

Jeanette Contreras, MPP

Executive Director

Organization for Latino Health Advocacy (OHLA)

Jeanette is a prominent health policy advocate with over 20 years of experience dedicated to improving health outcomes for underserved communities in the U.S. Before establishing OLHA, Jeanette founded the Latina Health Collab, a consulting firm aimed at engaging diverse stakeholders in public policy advocacy. Jeanette has held leadership roles in several national nonprofits, including the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), UnidosUS (formerly the National Council of La Raza), the National Consumers League, and the American Academy of Family Physicians. Jeanette began her career in the legislative office of the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, culminating in over a decade of public service in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She serves on the board of directors for the Hispanic Society for Rare Diseases (Sociedad Hispana de Enfermedades Raras) and HealthyWomen. Jeanette holds a Bachelor's degree in political science from California State University, Los Angeles, and a Master's degree in public policy from American University in Washington, D.C.

Moderator:

Estela Mata-Carcamo

Executive Director

Looms For Lupus

Estela is a passionate advocate for health equity, leading impactful initiatives that blend healthcare policy, community engagement, and patient empowerment. As president and co-founder of Looms for Lupus and Mata Advocacy and Support (MAS), Estela drives awareness for lupus, fibromyalgia, mental health, and community wellness. With over 30 years of healthcare experience and personal insights as both a patient and caregiver, she fosters meaningful connections across diverse communities, bridging industry and patient advocacy voices. Her health care and public policy influence spans local to global platforms, collaborating with organizations like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, National Institutes of Health: All of Us Research program, and Scripps Research Digital Trials Center. Estela also serves on the City of Baldwin Park Stakeholder Oversight Committee.