Elizabeth Lanning’s early journeys to different parts of the world, many of which alongside her father,  made a profound impact on her passion to listen and deeply connect with humans of diverse cultures and traditions. It also helped cultivate the empathy and love that propels her life’s work. The first Project Propel urban garden began in 2013, stemming largely from her graduate research among riverside communities in Metro Manila. Harnessing her background in Social Work and Public Health, Elizabeth promotes a vision of holistic health for all, and the importance of being responsible stewards of Earth’s abundance. She fervently believes that an integrated approach to development is the key to sustainable positive change. One of her favorite aspects of Project Propel is witnessing women empowered by informed health choices, and in turn teaching their families and leading the community at large!

Amanda S. Barizo has been based in the Philippines since 2012 and joined the Project Propel team in full capacity in 2019.  She combines her experience in international non-profit management and her work as a global health educator to help bring the mission and vision of Project Propel into realization.  Coming from a family of educators, she is a firm believer in empowerment through education. Amanda is driven by a sense of responsiveness to those most affected by systemic imbalances—societal, economic, or environmental. In Project Propel, she finds joy in listening and learning from others.  She also loves planning, organizing, and all things involving systems, numbers, tables or charts! 

Roberta Plantak was instrumental in establishing Project Propel as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in the United States, before moving to the Philippines in 2016.  She has a diverse background in international political science, children’s wellness and advocacy, and non-profit marketing and fundraising.  Roberta’s infectious energy inspires and propels action within the local communities, while she brightly reflects the spirit and mission of Project Propel to the donor community through fundraisers and marketing campaigns. While in the Philippines, Roberta spearheaded program development, community organizing, and she continues to keep the Project Propel network engaged and growing. The Fresh Perspectives (children’s arts & writing program) and the EcoWings (sustainable, eco-conscious livelihood) both came to fruition thanks to Roberta’s drive and passion for women, children & the environment.

Sara-May Colón grew up throughout the globe, and her exposure to different cultures, customs, and climates has contributed to her remarkable adaptability.  During her board visits to the Philippines, she has immersed herself among the indigenous mountain tribes, and also stayed with community members living along the San Juan River during flood season.  Sara’s diverse skill set stretches far beyond her formal education & work experience in Business, Theology, and Art. Whether it be on projects or during strategic meetings, her positive & team-building spirit, as well as her keen ability to problem-solve, organize, and mobilize others, have been a true asset to the organization.  We also have the Project Propel logo thanks to her graphic design skills!

Boryana Alexandrova is a professional photographer and cinematographer, who as a board member offers her gifted field of awareness and discerning eye, both around the conference table and behind the camera. Based in New York City, she first travelled to the Philippines in 2018 for the first Project Propel face-to-face board session.  While in the Philippines she engaged with community members, documented programs and program members, filmed in-depth interviews with Project Propel volunteers and staff, and used her skills to accurately capture and portray the heart and vision of Project Propel.