Leonora Souza Paula

Focus Areas

Leonora Souza Paula is the Co-Founder of Black Women Shaping AfroFutures (BWSA), a platform created to discuss plans and develop strategies for the future of Black women in the Global South. The BWSA’s primary goal is to uplift the work of Black women’s organizations through the exchange of knowledge and experiences, the strengthening of partnerships, and the co-creation of future-ready opportunities. Black Women Shaping AfroFutures plans to hold an annual forum that will feature thematic panels led by Black women from the Global South.

Leonora holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the University of California, San Diego. She recognizes the power of storytelling and its positive impact on global communities. Leonora is a former co-leader of the Kilomba Collective of Black Brazilian women.

“As a visionary leader, I think strategically and act collectively to mobilize resources that support expanding the impact of women-led organizations.”