Semillas

Mission

The mission of Semillas, which means "seed"; in Spanish, is to empower women. Women in Mexico are empowered when we know and can defend our human rights. As Mexico's only women's foundation, Semillas makes grants to women's organizations to protect reproductive rights and health, win freedom from violence, gain labor rights, and achieve economic autonomy through income generating activities.

Programs

Semillas has two main programs: the Programa Donativos Semilla – Seed Grant Program (PDS) – identifies and funds projects created and directed by women in themes such as: human rights; gender violence; reproductive rights; sexual diversity; labor rights; economic autonomy; and institutional strengthening. The Programa de Desarrollo de Recursos - Resource Development Program (PDR) raises funds from individula an institutional donors, while promoting a culture of investment in social change.

Current Projects on GlobalGiving

Community Center for Sex Workers in Mexico

Personnel Overview

Emilienne de León Aulina - Executive Director, Semillas
Emilienne has worked as a consultant to NGOs and women’s groups in Mexico for more than 15 years, assisting with their institutional development and strategic planning skills. She is a noted speaker on women’s human rights both in Mexico and abroad. In 2005 Emilienne received the honor of being recognized as one of the 21 Leaders for the 21st Century by Women’s eNews.

María del Carmen Morales - Seed Grant Coordinator
Carmen is an expert consultant in organizational development and strengthening, and has extensive experience in capacity building and market research for women’s grassroots and economic sustainability projects. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and has been with Semillas since 2000.

Personnel Statistics

Emilienne de Leon,
Executive Director
Founded in 1990
Employees: 16
Volunteers: 2