Meet the 2021 Leaders

Meet the 2021 Leaders for a New Chicago

Our collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation recognizes leaders who are redefining civic leadership and reimagining our city’s future.

In 2021, we recognized 10 individuals as Leaders for a New Chicago awardees.

Tony is pictured smiling against a light backdrop. He's wearing dark rimmed glasses and a patterend shirt with dark blue and green colors. He has tatoos on his arm.
Tony Alvarado-Rivera

Executive Director

Chicago Freedom School
Bandon is pictured smiling against a dark blue backdrop. He is wearing a light blue denim shirt with a silver chain neckace
Brandon “Chief Manny” Calhoun

Co-Founder

The Era Footwork Crew
Malik is smiling against a light background. He is wearing a pink collared shirt and a blue tie with pink checks.
Malik Gillani

Co-Executive Artistic Director

Silk Road Rising
Monica is smiling against a dark blue background. She is wearing a black top and a necklace with a large dark pendant
Monica Lynne Haslip

Founder & Executive Director

Little Black Pearl
Maira is pictured smiling against a light background. She is wearing a rust, long-sleeved top.
Maira Khwaja

Director of Public Strategy

Invisible Institute
This is a profile picture of Meida against a light backdropo. She is wearing a white blouse over a dark top.
Meida Teresa McNeal

Artistic and Managing Director

Honey Pot Performance
Grace is pictured smilng against a light backdrop. She is wearing a patterned, long sleeve, top and silver dangle earrings.
Grace Pai

Director of Organizing

Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago
Aislinn is smiling against a light backdrop. She is wearing large gold hoop earrings and a patterned shawl with blue and orange colors.
Aislinn Pulley

Co-Executive Director

Chicago Torture Justice Center
LaSaia is pictuerd smiling against a light background. She is wearing a dark floral jacket over an olive top with glases and a necklace.
LaSaia Wade

Founder & Executive Director

Brave Space Alliance
Damon is pictured smiling against a light backdrop. He is wearing a dark, long sleeved shirt.
Damon A. Williams

Co-Director

#LetUsBreathe Collective