Applications for the 2026 cohort are now closed -  Sign up to recieve application updates

Empowering Women, Cultivating Leaders

La Collective Elevate encourages, empowers, and supports a community of ambitious women to create opportunities for generational leadership.

About Us

What La Collective
Elevate is all about

We are a community of professional women from an array of backgrounds looking to grow and network. Whether you're a woman navigating the early stages of your career or an established professional ready to take your career to the next level — La Collective is here to help you elevate to new heights. We host professional networking and personal development events in Chicago for women at all professional levels. We pay individual and collective successes forward to La Collective’s community and programming.

The Benefits

The Perks of Joining

La Collective Elevate

Elevate is a 12-month mentorship cohort of inspired leaders looking to level up. The program empowers a community of strong women as they become better equipped to lead and break barriers in their respective industries.

One-on-one coaching

Unlock your potential for growth with personalized, one-on-one sessions from an esteemed woman, providing invaluable coaching expertise.

Supportive community

Develop relationships with women across roles and industries, fostering growth through valuable connections and shared experiences.

Elite network

Connect with executives, business owners, artists, industry experts, and elected leaders with diverse networking opportunities.

Free perks

Enjoy complimentary La Collective merchandise and free admission to our signature events for a premium experience.

Exclusive access

Join monthly cohort meet-ups for an exclusive networking experience at diverse and enjoyable locations.

Monthly modules

On diverse topics, like:

  • The Importance of Setting Healthy Boundaries

  • Developing Your Leadership and Influence

  • Networking and Effective Communication

  • Effective Negotiation Skills

  • Cultivating Self-Discovery and Empowerment

  • Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

“I feel that receiving professional guidance has been instrumental in helping me make the right decisions. Additionally, the inspiration from my mentors is motivating me to invest more in my personal development and career growth.”
Nicole Rodriguez

Nicole Rodriguez

Elevate Cohort Class of 2025

“The speakers have been incredible. They have so many different approaches to sharing their story and their gifts. And I love my mentor.”
Erica Perez

Erica Perez

Elevate Cohort Class of 2025

“I’ve enjoyed the gatherings, hearing from and learning from each other. I love the encouragement I leave with to live into my calling. I liked being given a number and seated that way last meeting. The experience never fails, and the attention to detail in food, table settings, and creative experiences never fail.”
Delilah Ortiz

Delilah Ortiz

Elevate Cohort Class of 2025

“I love this! I can't wait to grow and one day become a mentor in this cohort myself.  Thank You so much for the opportunity.”
Shana Sanders

Shana Sanders

Elevate Cohort Class of 2025

Building the next generation of leaders today

Community

Meet Our Cohort Leadership

Surrounding yourself with the right women can profoundly influence your personal and professional growth.

Connect with executive leaders, executive directors of nonprofits, successful business owners, elected officials, nationally renowned artists, financial experts, expert consultants, and more.

Cristina Vera Bridges
CEO of Vera Creative and Founder & President of La Collective

Cristina is an award-winning communications strategist with 25 years of expertise in leadership, marketing, and community engagement. She is the founder of La Collective and Vera Creative.

Aaja Corinne Magee
CEO of Aaja Corinne The Brand

Aaja Corinne Magee is a personal branding strategist and strategic positioning and messaging specialist with over fifteen years of professional experience in the fashion, beauty, marketing, and communications industries.

Rebeca Huffman
Social Media Influencer

Rebeca Huffman is an independent consultant and social media influencer leveraging 20+ years of professional experience in fundraising and organizational development.

Norma Hernandez
State Representative, 77th District

Norma Hernandez's concentration is in Community Development, seeking to help improve the well-being of all members of society, especially those living in marginalized communities by implementing proper strategies that can enhance quality of life and economic growth.

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Meet the  Cohort Class of 2026

Congratulations to Elevate’s Class of 2026! These remarkable women have taken the next step toward personal and professional growth.

Elevate’s Class of 2026
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