Prancing Ponies Leadership Academy Graduates
MEET OUR FUTURE WOMEN LEADERS
Eliza Ruiz Class of 2018 Graduates from the Prancing Ponies Leadership Academy
Vanessa Grant (red shirt) Class of 2018, attends a Climate Change conference with Al Gore
Eliza Ruiz Class of 2018 visits Waymo for company tour and ride in driverless car
First Prancing Ponies Leadership Academy Scholar 2017 – Paris
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CLASS OF 2018 – SAN FRANCISCO
VANESSA GRANT
University: University of Messina, Italy
Major: Business/Marketing
Vanessa’s journey as a young diplomat began in 2012 when she received a government scholarship to study Business Administration at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. While in Brazil, she was an active part in research on developing countries such as Brazil, Russia India, China and South Africa (BRICS). In 2014, Vanessa was selected to participate in the Harvard Project for Asian and International Relations (HPAIR) Asian Conference in Tokyo, Japan. She went on to become a part of the organizing committee of the seventh staging of the World Regional Government Summit and has received numerous scholarships to pursue post-graduate studies in Europe. Vanessa is a 2017 Prime Minister’s Youth Award nominee for International Achievement from St. James, Jamaica. Currently, she studies for her master’s degree in International Management at the University of Messina (UNIME) in Italy. She hopes that by joining Prancing Ponies, her achievements can influence the lives of future female leaders.
ELIZA RUIZ
University: UC Santa Barbara
Major: Computer Science
I entered university with the intention to pursue an Art degree, but ultimately switched into the Computer Science program at UCSB. My extensive artistic and technical backgrounds provide me with a unique and solid foundation. I enjoy the more creative branches of programming, such as UI/UX design and human-computer interaction. Following university, I plan on pursuing an MBA to propel myself into a high-level position in which I can oversee and aid the development of impactful technology.
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CLASS OF 2017 – PARIS
IXCHEL Q. RAMIREZ
University: Wellesley College
Major: Undecided
An inquisitive and diligent student with experience in project management and fundraising as a club president for 3 years and volunteer for a not-for-profit soccer camp. Seeking to contribute my problem solving and leadership skills to an opportunity that exposes me to international diplomacy in an embassy.
PAIGE BENTUM
University: Howard University
Major: Music Performance
I am a hard-working musician and activist. I am a passionate singer and have been singing for 10+ years. I have been enrolled in audition-only Advanced Vocal Ensembles. Along with my singing career, I am also an avid leader and activist. I have over 8 years of leadership experience, ranging from being a camp counselor to senior class Vice President. I am now hoping to continue to pursue my passion for music and singing.
MICHELLE MARCIAL
University: University of Southern California
Major: Contemporary Latino and Latin American Studies
Hard-working and passionate student who can meet strict deadlines and work in fast-paced environments. Seeking to help a community based foundation or non-profit reach its milestones.
Read Michelle’s blog about her Academy experience.
UGOCHI EGONU
University: New York University
Major: Journalism and Creative Writing
A poet, journalist, and activist. Work has been published in magazines and literary journals across the nation. Ability to work with a team but also willing to take on solo assignments. A skilled writer with experience in all genres.