Meet the Founding Partners
Meet the passionate duo behind Empower Youth Latinx!
As Founding Partners, they are united by a shared vision to amplify the voices of Latinx youth and create spaces where young leaders can thrive. Together, they bring a dynamic blend of experience in youth leadership, community engagement, and culturally rooted advocacy to drive EYL’s mission forward—by youth, for youth.
Executive Director
Kathryn López Resto
Kathryn López Resto is passionate about empowering Latiné youth through education, mentorship, and career readiness. With a background in community engagement, program development, and youth advocacy, she works to break systemic barriers and create culturally responsive opportunities. She also leads Adventures in Spanish, a Spanish language and culture program, and owns a business specializing in business growth and marketing solutions, helping organizations strengthen their brand and impact. Kathryn holds a B.S. in Conflict Resolution from Portland State University and is committed to fostering opportunities for underserved communities to thrive.
Director of Educational Programs
Kathryn Athay
Kathryn holds Bachelors Degrees in Spanish and Education from OSU and a Masters Degree in Education from Loyola University in Maryland. Kathryn has 15+ years of experience teaching children and mentoring youth through global, grassroots programs largely in Hispanic neighborhoods in the Northwest, as well as coordinating the Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program at the county, state, and regional levels.