Gabriella Cortes-Alban

Multisector Strategist: Creating Social Impact through Arts, Public Affairs, and Community Engagement

I'm Gabriella Cortes-Alban, a senior at the University of Central Florida pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in commerce, public affairs, nonprofit management, and performing arts administration. I combine my academic training with a professional career as a performing artist to bring innovative perspectives to fundraising, program development, and public communications.

Born into a Colombian family in Florida, I grew up immersed in culture and community advocacy. Working at my father's medical practice to support uninsured patients and performing traditional Latin music with my mother's entertainment company taught me early on that art and service are not opposites, but complementary colors on the same canvas.

I continued to work across healthcare, education, and philanthropy—mentoring youth, coordinating health education programs, analyzing grants, and curating community events. While each role carried moments of joy, I found my true purpose when these seemingly separate paths converged through the arts, bringing healing to people from all walks of life.

Based in Orlando, I work as an independent artist collaborating with companies such as Eklectic Entertainment, Stepflix Entertainment, and Adanse Productions on corporate, theme park, and live performance projects. Trained in ballroom and Latin styles, I also teach students of all ages, believing that dance and music are powerful ways to channel energy and enrich lives.

These unique experiences provide fresh perspectives that inspire creative approaches to organizational growth, community engagement, and fundraising initiatives, enabling me to consult local businesses and nonprofits with strategic planning and public relations.

Grateful for the opportunities that allowed me to grow, I am passionate about providing equitable support to those who do not have the same. I put this philosophy into action through Sembrando Arte, Cosechando Esperanzas, a project that uses entertainment to fund youth programs addressing mental health through arts and culture.

My vision is to challenge society's black-and-white standards and instead invite people to see life in full color by bridging communities, amplifying voices, and creating change through the power of art.