Conversations with Mayboll Carrasco

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mayboll Carrasco.

Hi Mayboll, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My career has always been deeply rooted in my lived experiences as an immigrant, an eldest daughter, and a first-generation college graduate. When my family arrived in the United States, we faced immense challenges, including a period of homelessness. These early struggles instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility and a lifelong commitment to uplifting the voices of society’s most vulnerable members.

I began my career in international development with the Nicaraguan Health Ministry, where I helped secure over $100 million in funding for public health initiatives focused on HIV, TB, and malaria across Central America. This work was especially personal for me, as I lost my uncle to AIDS in 2011, which deepened my commitment to health equity and community empowerment.

Alongside my development work, I discovered a passion for teaching. I have taught Political Science in Nicaragua and in the United States, educating hundreds of students over the years. Teaching is incredibly personal for me; school changed my life. It gave me the strength to dream bigger than my circumstances and the tools to pursue those dreams. Through my teaching, I strive to empower students to recognize their voices in society and politics, inspiring future generations to believe in their ability to lead change.

After returning to Los Angeles, I continued my work in the nonprofit sector, leading fundraising, corporate partnerships, and planned giving strategies for organizations like the Black AIDS Institute and the Assistance League of Los Angeles. Today, as the Director of Major and Planned Giving at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, I have the honor of supporting an institution that played a pivotal role in my own childhood. The Museum was a place of wonder and courage for me, reinforcing my belief that no dream is too big, regardless of where I come from.

Throughout my career, whether in classrooms or communities, in Central America or Los Angeles, my purpose has been to connect generosity with mission, to create spaces of hope and opportunity, and to ensure that the most vulnerable voices are not just heard but empowered to thrive.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has not always been smooth. There are always challenges when working toward big goals, especially as a woman of color and a first-generation immigrant. Institutional barriers like racism and sexism have been very real throughout my journey. There were times when I questioned if I belonged in certain rooms or at certain tables because of the way I was treated or overlooked.

But through it all, I had to constantly remind myself that nothing I have achieved was given to me — it was earned through hard work, resilience, and commitment. Even when it was difficult, I had to believe that I deserve to be in those spaces and that my voice matters. I carry with me the voices of all the people who are not always represented, and that gives me strength. Every step forward has not just been for me, but for the communities I represent and care deeply about.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At the heart of my work is a commitment to building opportunities for people and communities to thrive. I specialize in major and planned giving, corporate partnerships, and foundation relations, helping organizations grow their impact through strong, lasting relationships. I have also spent years teaching Political Science, which allows me to empower students to recognize their voice in society and in shaping the future.

I am most proud of the trust and community I have built throughout my career, and the tangible outcomes that trust has made possible, from securing major funding for healthcare initiatives in Central America to supporting nonprofit organizations and cultural institutions here in Los Angeles. What sets me apart is that my work is deeply personal. Coming from a first-generation immigrant background, I understand firsthand the importance of access, opportunity, and representation. I approach every project, every partnership, and every student with the belief that change is not only possible but necessary and that we each have a role to play in making it happen.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding a mentor can be life changing, and my own experience is a testament to that. As a Political Science student, I was fortunate to find a mentor in Dr. McLendon, whose Political Theory courses empowered me during one of the hardest times in my life. I was facing serious challenges at home, including domestic violence. While he never knew the full story, his classes gave me the courage to believe I could change my circumstances. His mentorship gave me the strength to leave a difficult situation and pursue my career in Latin America.

Even while I was working and teaching abroad, I continued to seek his advice. When I returned to Los Angeles, he was there again, offering guidance that helped me secure my first teaching job in the United States. That kind of steady support, even from a distance, taught me the real meaning of mentorship: it’s about seeing potential in someone even when they are struggling to see it themselves.

As a fundraiser, I have also been fortunate to learn from incredible leaders like Toni Newman, former CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, who saw in me a relationship builder, someone who could not only connect with donors but also tell the stories of the communities I advocate for with authenticity and heart. Leaders like Toni helped me sharpen my voice and reminded me that fundraising is not just about securing resources, it’s about honoring the dignity and strength of the people we serve.

All of these experiences have shaped how I mentor others today, whether it is my students in the classroom or young professionals early in their careers. I want to be the kind of mentor who gives people the courage to chase their dreams, cheers them on, and offers real insight on creating their own path to success. I know from my own life that not everyone follows the same road, I certainly didn’t, and I want to give others hope that even when the journey feels lonely, even when the hardships are invisible to others, they are worth fighting for. Their dreams are worth every sleepless night and every moment of uncertainty.

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayboll-c-78b95450/