Bio & Expertise
Mari Eva Mendes (she/her) is a seasoned fundraising and communications strategist with over 20 years of multinational experience in philanthropy, training, and program development.
As LEAP’s inaugural Chief Development Officer, Mari Eva leads fundraising and communications efforts to promote accessible arts education for NYC youth in under-resourced communities. Through MEM Consulting, she coaches and mentors fundraising professionals, delivers keynotes, and facilitates nationwide workshops.
Previously, she transitioned from global marketing to advocacy and fundraising in the UAE and India, founding Maya for Women to support the inclusion of LBQT women in India.
In the US, Mari Eva has held senior roles at organizations like Harlem United, managing a $50 million public health portfolio, NRDC, as the first Fundraising Equity Director, and Girls for Gender Equity as their first Chief Development and Communications Officer.
Mari Eva serves on NTEN’s Session Advisory and Community Equity Committees and was a key member of the Community Centric Fundraising’s Global Council Steering Committee, leading their 2023 international strategic plan.
Growing up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mari Eva’s Black/Global South feminist perspective informs her work. She leverages her multiethnic heritage and experiences to build resources for underserved communities of color. Fluent in Arabic, she holds a triple-major Bachelor of Arts from Bangalore University (India) and professional certifications in Coaching, Counseling Psychology, Sexuality and Gender, Professional Fundraising, Women of Color Leadership, and Restorative Justice Circles.
