Mpact’s Starting Five: Meet the Team
Mpact’s Starting Five: Meet the Team
An African proverb states that “If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together.” Quotes have a way of hitting differently depending on what’s happening in your life, so when Mpact PR re-launched during the pandemic, I knew I wanted to build a solid team of consultants versus being a solo operation.
While there are many qualities to look for in teammates, I’ve always been drawn to colleagues with complementary skill sets and diverse backgrounds, be that in thought, appearance, approach, expertise, and/or lived experiences. This fosters a great environment because we each bring our unique expertise to the table, which collectively benefits our clients and we’re able to learn from each other. It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving.
At the end of the day, working with high-impact organizations, creative organizations, and individuals who are fighting to create a more equitable world can be heavy, so we ground ourselves by creating impact, encouraging each other, and finding slivers of joy all around us.
Without further ado, meet the team:
Founder & CEO, Jacqueline Lara (she/her)
Location: Based in Silver Spring, MD
Expertise: Project management, editing, communications strategy & narrative change
What’s your superpower? I’ve been in high-stress, crisis situations with clients who had to issue statements on behalf of themselves or their organizations, and my ability to remain calm and clear-headed under pressure is key. Relationship-building and finding humor in any situation are additional strengths.
What do you love most about working in communications? Working in communications proves that words are powerful and our stories matter. It’s amazing to work with clients long-term - allowing us to see how intentional messaging and integrated campaigns can spark action, move legislation, shift harmful narratives, and center experts from underrepresented communities.
Consultant, Cabot Petoia (they/them)
Location: Based in Washington, DC
Expertise: Communications strategy, writing and editing, media relations
What’s your superpower? Pumping people up and reminding them they’re experts in their own experience and knowledge!
What do you love most about working in communications? All the brilliant people I get to collaborate with, and the different issue areas I get to learn about.
Consultant, Arron Neal (she/her)
Location: Based in Montreal, CA
Expertise: Strategic messaging, media, and management
What’s your superpower? Facilitating collaboration is my superpower. I help teams understand big ideas and get them working seamlessly together to realize the benefits.
What do you love most about working in communications? What I love most about working in communications is that it’s a valuable asset for every person and organization. Success in life and in work depends on an ability to inspire others to become allies, supporters, and to work with you as collaborators. It excites me when these elements come together, allowing people, teams, families, and organizations thrive.
Consultant, Janna Zinzi (she/her)
Location: Based in New Orleans, LA
Expertise: Media strategy, narrative strategy and messaging, copyediting
What’s your superpower? Bringing the vibes - joy and laughter - and being a hypewoman
What do you love most about working in communications? Supporting folks in clarifying their communications strategy and brainstorming with clients to help their brilliant ideas come to life.
Consultant, Magdaline Hurtado (she/her)
Location: Based in Teaneck, NJ
Expertise: Media strategy, media pitching, digital strategy and project management
What’s your superpower? Building authentic and lasting relationships - I believe a key piece to a strong PR relationship, that ultimately leads to results, is fostering a relationship built on interests, trust, and support.
What do you love most about working in communications? Leveraging storytelling as a catalyst to representation. I love bringing the unique stories clients and their partners tell that represent their communities and finding unique ways to activate them.
Now that you’ve met the team, here’s a behind-the-scenes peek at how we recharge and stay inspired and connected.
Song credit: Runnin’ by The Pharcyde
Before I go, here’s what I’m thinking about:
“Wildcard with Rachel Martin,” Issa Rae on the belief that gets her through 'stupid mistakes and bad decisions'
“The Knowledge Project Ep. #193,” Dr. Jim Loehr: Change The Stories You Tell Yourself
Book I’m reading: “Power Moves” by Sarah Jakes Roberts
Quote I’m pondering: “Everyone must choose one of two pains: The pain of discipline or the pain of regret.” ~ Unknown