Meet the 2026 Leaders

Meet the 2026 Leaders for a New Chicago

In 2026, the Field and MacArthur Foundations recognized eight individuals as Leaders for a New Chicago awardees. These leaders are bringing transformative change to their communities — advancing housing justice; advocating for immigrant and disability rights; ensuring residents have access to trusted local news; and creating spaces for art, storytelling, cultural pride, and neighborhood connection.

Like our previous Leaders for a New Chicago awardees, they are bringing new voices, creativity, and innovation into the decisions and structures that shape Chicago. Meet the 2026 cohort of leaders who are redefining civic leadership and reimagining our city’s future.

Candace Coleman, smiling in an orange blazer, with a city skyline visible through windows behind her.
Candace Coleman

Community Strategy Specialist

Access Living
Infiniti Gant smiling and looking to the side in an outdoor environment.
Infiniti Gant

Organizing Director

Southside Together
Danae Kovac smiling in a white lace top, with greenery in the background.
Danae Kovac

Executive Director

HANA Center
Cheryl Mainor Norman, seated and smiling in a black top, with glasses and gray hair, against a dark backdrop.
Cheryl Mainor Norman

Founder, President & Publisher

Chicago News Weekly and CNW Media
Janell Nelson posing confidently in a blue top with a long feather pendant necklace and a patterned headscarf, set against a dark green leaf-patterned backdrop.
Janell Nelson

Creative Strategist & Director

Englewood Arts Collective
Xanat Sobrevila smiling in a black turtleneck, with lush green foliage in the background.
Xanat Sobrevilla

Co-Founder & Strategic Programs Coordinator

Organized Communities Against Deportations
Ivan Vega, seated outdoors with hands clasped, wearing a denim jacket with pins including a Puerto Rican flag, a tweed hat, and glasses, smiling softly.
Ivan Vega

Co-Founder and Executive Director

UrbanTheater Company
Adriana Velazquez, a woman with long dark hair, smiling in an outdoor headshot wearing a maroon blazer over a black top with sheer, jeweled detailing.
Adriana Velázquez

Co-Director, Parent Engagement Institute

Southwest Organizing Project