Fifty-three fellows from communities across the U.S. were selected to participate in the 2022-2023 National Leaders of Color Fellowship cohort to build on the legacy of creating an intersectional, intergenerational, and multiracial movement on behalf of cultural equity across the field. During this no-cost eight-month fellowship, fellows receive access to specialists in the field, strategic learning objectives to deepen thought on anti-racist and culturally-oriented leadership practices, and national-level network and cohort building.
André Zhang Sonera (he/him) serves as the Deputy Director of Operations and Strategic Partnerships for the Indiana Arts Commission. Originally from San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, André received his Master’s in Public Affairs in Policy Analysis from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University. His previous work experiences at the White House, the New York City Mayor’s Office of Operations, the Office of the Indiana Lt. Governor, and the City of Indianapolis Mayor’s Office have nurtured his passion for public service and government.
In his spare time, he proudly serves as a Big Brother for Big Brothers Big Sisters and sits on the IndyHub Foundation Board of Directors.