Our Story
In 1986, five insightful local Latinas recognized the significant need for a unifying force – a strong Latina voice advocating for a greater Latina presence and a deeper Latina involvement in the educational, economic, political and social arenas.
These pioneering and resourceful women created that unifying force and voice by establishing the San Diego Chapter of MANA, a national Latina organization whose mission is to empower Latinas through education, leadership development, advocacy and community service.
MANA short for “Hermana”, the Spanish word for sister, is a dynamic sisterhood of Latinas bound together by common history, culture, language and goals.
MANA de San Diego is a 501 © (3) non-profit organization, incorporated in the State of California in 1998. MANA is funded by membership dues, donations and the generous support of sponsors and partners. MANA de San Diego is the largest and most active MANA chapter, with more than 4,000 supporters. TAX ID: 33-0821060.
MANA de San Diego Presidents/Chairwomen
Proclamations/Awards
Over the years, MANA de San Diego has been honored with numerous awards and proclamations from local, state, and national organizations in recognition of our impact, leadership, and commitment to empowering Latinas.
Year | Organization/Entity | Award or Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | City of National City | Proclamation |
| 2011 | California State Assembly | Proclamation |
| 2011 | City of National City | Proclamation |
| 2013 | County of San Diego – Supervisor Greg Cox | Proclamation |
| 2015 | City of San Diego – Office of the Mayor | Proclamation |
| 2015 | U.S. House of Representatives – Rep. Scott H. Peters | Proclamation |
| 2015 | City of San Diego City Council | Proclamation |
| 2015 | U.S. House of Representatives – Rep. Juan Vargas | Proclamation |
| 2016 | City of San Diego – Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer | Kappan Equity and Advocacy Award |
| 2016 | County of San Diego – Supervisor Greg Cox | Proclamation |
| 2016 | San Diego Chapter, Phi Delta Kappa | Recognition |
| 2016 | County of San Diego – Supervisor Greg Cox | Resolution |
| 2016 | HOPE Latina Initiative | National Bright Spot in Hispanic Education |
| 2016 | California State Assembly | Proclamation |
| 2017 | White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics | Leadership Award |
| 2018 | City of Chula Vista | Community Partners Award |
| 2022 | U.S. Department of Justice – FBI | Director’s Community Leadership Award (CFF) |
| 2022 | Health Net | Proclamation |
| 2023 | Classroom of the Future Foundation | Neighborhood Builder |
| 2024 | City of San Diego City Council | Latino Spirit Award – Achievement in Community Empowerment |
| 2024 | Bank of America | Latino Spirit Award |
| 2025 | Latino Legislative Caucus | Proclamation |
| 2025 | California State Assembly | Resolution |
| 2025 | City of Chula Vista | Proclamation |
About MANA National
MANA National came into existence in 1974, as the Mexican-American Women’s National Association, with the mission of giving a voice to Mexican-American women at the national, state and local level. As MANA National grew, the organization evolved into a strong and diverse group of Latinas, from the political, social and professional arenas. In 1994, in recognition of its diverse membership, the non-profit organization voted to change its name to MANA, a National Latina Organization.
Honorary Lifetime Members:
Mary Salas
40th Mayor of Chula Vista (2014-2022). MANASD President from 1993- 1996.
Elisa Sanchez
Founding member of MANA National in 1974. Past MANA National President & CEO, MANASD President 1992-1993.
Josie Silva
Founding member of MANA de San Diego, first president of MANASD 1986-1987.
Help us help Latinas achieve success
Together, through our mentorship programs, scholarships and leadership events, we can make a positive difference in the Latino community.