‘NaFFAA must get younger,’ says new national president Ryan Namata

The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) elected Ryan Namata as its new national president on August 17, during the 15th National Empowerment Conference in Detroit.

Namata, a visionary leader deeply rooted in the Filipino American community, takes the helm with a commitment to steering the organization toward unprecedented growth and impact, says a press statement. “The historic moment marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for NaFFAA.”

Professionally, Namata serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer at the Center for American Progress, a prominent think-tank based in Washington, D.C. With nearly 25 years of experience in human capital management, he has led both domestic and international teams across various sectors, including finance, cybersecurity, and nonprofit organizations. Namata’s expertise in organizational development, leadership coaching, and diversity, equity, and inclusion has made him a respected voice in the field.

As he steps into his new role as national president of NaFFAA, Namata said he is focused on two key priorities: empowering the youth and fostering an inclusive environment for all Filipinos.

“NaFFAA must get younger,” Namata emphasized. “We need to inspire and motivate the next generation of leaders, ensuring that our organization remains vibrant and relevant for years to come.”

He envisions NaFFAA as a central hub for education and dialogue, where Filipinos can connect with their heritage, culture, and the power of unity.

The election also saw the appointment of other key officers, including Chris Rivera as vice president, Giselle Rushford as secretary, Rod Mercado as treasurer, and Mariela Fletcher as national chair. This leadership team, under Namata’s guidance, is poised to lead NaFFAA into a new era of growth and engagement.

Outgoing National President Fletcher expressed her full confidence in Namata’s leadership, stating, “Ryan Namata is the right leader at the right time for NaFFAA. His experience, vision, and unwavering commitment to our community make him uniquely qualified to guide our organization forward. I am confident that under his leadership, NaFFAA will reach new heights and continue to make a profound impact on the lives of Filipino Americans across the nation.”

Namata vowed to build upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessors and lead the organization toward an even brighter future. He is committed to ensuring that NaFFAA remains a vital and dynamic force within the Filipino American community and beyond.

He shared his thoughts on the privilege of serving as NaFFAA’s national president: “It is a profound honor to lead NaFFAA at this crucial moment in our history. The opportunity to serve and empower the Filipino American community is both a privilege and a responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly. Together, we will continue to elevate our voices, celebrate our heritage, and build a future where every Filipino American feels connected, supported, and empowered.”