Courtesy of Yvette Tello
Interview by
Rita Hernandez
Lina Prado’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leader in nonprofit work is nothing short of inspiring. In a recent interview with Inspiration for Life, Lina opened up about her deep-rooted passion for helping others and the experiences that shaped her path to making a lasting impact in her community.Growing up, Lina witnessed the struggles of underserved communities, and those experiences fueled her determination to make a difference. “I’ve always known I wanted to give back,” she said during the interview. “I grew up seeing the sacrifices people made and the resilience they showed in the face of challenges. It instilled in me the desire to contribute to something bigger than myself.”
Lina’s personal history is one of overcoming adversity. Raised in a modest household, she learned from an early age the importance of community, compassion, and collective action. These values have guided her career and personal life, leading to the founding of her nonprofit organization, which is dedicated to supporting low-income families, providing educational opportunities, and offering essential resources to those in need.Through her work, Lina has been a lifeline for countless families, helping them access food, educational tools, and career development opportunities. “There’s no greater reward than seeing someone take that first step towards a better life because of the resources and support we’re able to provide,” she shared.
As the founder and president of Women in Aviation Alamo City 501(c)(3), Lina has been a tireless advocate for women pursuing careers in aviation, creating a platform for mentorship and growth in an industry where women have been historically underrepresented. Her leadership extends to her role on the San Antonio Airport Advisory Commission, where she has worked to improve local aviation infrastructure and foster economic growth.
In addition to her aviation-focused initiatives, Lina serves as a founding board member of the Southside Education Foundation 501(c)(3), further solidifying her commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for underprivileged students. Her work has directly impacted countless lives, offering scholarships and resources to ensure that students in Southside San Antonio have the tools they need to succeed. Her nonprofit has grown significantly over the years, reaching more families and expanding its services. Lina credits the growth of her organization to the dedication of her team and the unwavering support from the community. She is adamant that her work is a reflection of the collective effort to uplift others. “It’s about the people who believe in our mission as much as I do,” she said. “We couldn’t do this alone.”
Lina’s leadership style is defined by her empathy and vision. She’s hands-on, ensuring that her organization not only meets the immediate needs of families but also creates long-term solutions for lasting change. Her nonprofit offers educational programs, job training, and mentorship initiatives aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty. For Lina, success is measured not just in how many people she helps, but in how many lives are transformed.“Empowerment is at the core of what we do,” she explained during her interview. “I want people to feel like they have the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face.”
As a Latina, Lina is also keenly aware of the importance of representation. She has made it her mission to inspire other young women, particularly Latinas, to step into leadership roles. “It’s so important that young girls see someone like them making a difference,” she emphasized. “I want them to know that they, too, can become leaders and change-makers.” As the mother of two, Lina takes her role as a role model seriously. She is committed to showing young women, particularly Latinas, that they have the power to create positive change in their communities. Lina is now channeling her experience and passion into her campaign where she is running for Bexar County Commissioner, Precinct 1. Her campaign for County Commissioner is not just about leadership, but about inspiring others to step into roles where they can make a difference.
Lina’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Her work has earned her numerous awards and recognition, but she remains humble, insisting that the real reward is the impact her nonprofit has on the families it serves. “The gratitude in their eyes is worth more than any accolade,” she said.Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the belief that everyone, regardless of their background, has the power to make a difference. Lina has used her platform to encourage others to get involved, to volunteer, and to support the causes they care about. “Every action counts,” she said. “Even the smallest gesture of kindness can have a ripple effect.”
As she looks to the future, Lina is focused on expanding the reach of her nonprofit and continuing to address the systemic issues that affect marginalized communities. She is also working on new initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, an area she is deeply passionate about. “The next generation is the key to our future,” Lina explained. “I want to make sure they have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.”
Lina Prado’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they are driven by compassion and a sense of purpose. Her work not only uplifts families but also inspires others to join the cause, creating a ripple effect of positivity and change. Through her leadership, Lina is building a legacy of service, hope, and empowerment for generations to come.
