OUR CEO & FOUNDER

Daiquiri Ryan Mercado, Esq.

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From organizing her first protest at age twelve to selling her multi-million dollar business at age 30, Daiquiri Ryan Mercado has always gone with her gut to do the right thing. A first generation lawyer by training and writer and storyteller by heart, Daiquiri’s multifaceted skill set is the foundation of her idealist perspective and pragmatic approach. 

Her passion and “why” behind advocacy and justice-based work can be found within a deep lived experience and understanding of the power of diverse communities. Though a Tejana through and through, Daiquiri’s upbringing in a multi-racial, multicultural, and mixed-ability home influenced her values and choices from a young age. Her abilities grow from these experiences, with subject-matter expertise in civil rights, digital equity, media diversity, DEI&B, and community-first messaging.

As the Founder & CEO of éxito & co., Daiquiri helps lead a comprehensive, unique approach to community engagement and marketing strategy and campaigns that’s rooted in community. She also serves as head exitosa, doing … well a little bit of everything as most entrepreneurs do. 

Daiquiri lives in Alexandria, Virginia with her husband, José, her son, Gael, and their two dogs, Lupita and Lucy. 

Working From: DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia)

Ties to: Texas, New Mexico, Arizona State University, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association 

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OUR EXITOSA TEAM

Evelyn Nieto

Director of Operations & Senior Account Manager 

Evelyn Nieto Nevarez is an efficient latina whose passion for social justice and administration have intersected in many ways throughout her career — starting in the third grade at Harris Elementary where she was an empathic recess mediator who helped find win-win solutions for playground disputes using scripts and checklists she took very seriously. (Looking back, she’s not sure if she enjoyed the healthy and predictable dialog or the paperwork submission basket more.) Since then, she’s worked on a diverse array of projects with private companies, non-profit organizations, local government, and state universities.

Each position she’s held has been dedicated to advocacy, research, and community – all things which fuel her energy for any project she has the opportunity to work on. Evelyn is best known for embracing the journey and reveling in the joy of being alive. Some of her targeted ads and social algorithms include: dog mom hoodies, bird watching tips, astronomy memes, lego builds, and google spreadsheet jokes. Currently living in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona there’s no patio or dog park she hasn’t visited.

Working from: Phoenix Arizona

Ties to: Arizona & Chihuahua, Mexico  

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Maria Coleman

Director of Advocacy & Senior Account Manager

Maria Mercado, a dedicated advocate and proud resident of Sacramento, CA, embodies the spirit of resilience and compassion. Born to hard-working immigrant parents, her upbringing in South Sacramento shaped her into a fierce advocate for the underrepresented. 

As the Director of Advocacy and Senior Account Manager at éxito & co., Maria blends academic insights with hands-on experience to lead initiatives for positive change. Having been nurtured by the close-knit community around her, Maria learned early on the importance of standing up for justice. Her fresh perspective and commitment to inclusivity make her a powerful force in championing social justice and equity. 

As a recent graduate from UCLA, she brings a well-rounded understanding of the intricate and intersectional issues that affect historically and intentionally marginalized communities. Maria is a leader, driven by a deep sense of empathy, enabling her to make significant strides in advocacy. Her journey reflects the strength and determination of a new generation of advocates working towards a more just society.

Working From and Tied to: Sacramento, CA 

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Shaunté Glover

Visual Storyteller, Photographer, & Videographer

Shaunté Glover is a multidisciplinary artist based in Phoenix, Arizona, whose creative journey spans photography, film, printmaking, and sculpture/installation. Holding a degree from Arizona State University, Glover is known for her compelling exploration of identity and representation. At the heart of her practice lies a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, particularly those of Black women, using art as a catalyst for visibility and community empowerment.

Working from and Tied to: Phoenix, Arizona

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Cami Ortiz

Designer & Storyteller

Camila (she/ella) is a product visual designer and illustrator specializing in brand design and visual design systems. She aims to collaborate with companies prioritizing mindfulness, mental health, and sustainable design in their products and internal practices. With eight years of experience, she’s worn various hats, including packaging designer, art director, senior visual designer, and creative director.

Working from and Tied to: New York