Who We Are

Eight Oído culinary students stand in a kitchen.

We believe in the incredible potential of young people

Oído was born out of a fierce belief that all young people are full of potential and deserve the opportunity to thrive.

We are a community of chefs, culinary experts, entrepreneurs, teachers, and other change-makers from across Mexico and around the world. We are passionate about breaking down the barriers keeping the youth of Quintana Roo trapped in poverty through the life-changing power of education.

Our Mission

To educate and empower young people to achieve their goals through a world class culinary program, competitive internships and mentorship with renowned, global culinary and hospitality leaders.

photo of two girl students outside
photo of student cooking with fire

Our Vision

All youth and children have inherent value and deserve the opportunity to thrive in a way that changes their world for the better forever. We will make this a reality.

Oído is powered by leaders and changemakers. Join our community.

Get Involved

Leadership

Gabe Erales

Executive Director
Bio

ANDY ELLWOOD

Board Chair
Bio

Jennifer Lotito

Board Director/Vice Chair
BIO

Scott Lawton

Board Director (Interim Chair)/Finance Committee/Culinary Advisory Board
BIO

Christian Irabien

Board Director/Culinary Advisory Board
BIO

Craig Hutchinson

Board Director/Culinary Advisory Board
BIO

Corbett Ramsey

Board Director/Finance Committee
BIO

Jason Sobocinski

Board Director/Culinary Chair
BIO

Joe Della Monica

Board Director/Finance Committee
BIO

Lisa Mosby

Board Director
BIO

Steve Farella

Board Director
BIO

Amy Dominguez

Founder Emeritus, Board Advisor
BIO

Andy Pforzheimer

Culinary Advisory Board
BIO

Jonathan Strasner

Finance Committee/Treasurer
BIO

Tom Hendrican

Secretary
BIO

Adiel Dominguez

President, Oído Mexico
BIO

Alejandro Ventura

Board Advisor/Alumni and Community Coordinator, Oído Mexico
BIO

David Dzul

Head Chef Instructor, Oído Mexico
BIO

Jessica Gamboa Yepez

Admin Coordinator, Oído Mexico
BIO

Pamela Chuc

Self-Expression Teacher
BIO

Paty Aparicio

Hospitality Assistant at Casa Hope
BIO

Ricardo Sanchez

Program Director,Oído Mexico
BIO

Sue Morales

Language Teacher
BIO
Gabe Erales

Gabe Erales

Executive Director

Gabe Erales is the Executive Director of Oído Culinary Academy, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower the underprivileged youth of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.

Born and raised in a small border town near El Paso, Texas, Erales’ parents moved to the U.S. from Quintana Roo, Mexico. Immersed in Mexican culture, Erales developed a passion for cooking early in his childhood and started working in restaurants when he was 15 years old. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, where he received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering, Erales recognized that his passion ultimately remained rooted in the kitchen.

In 2010, he enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu and earned the prestigious Stephen Pyles Culinary Scholarship. Following graduation, Erales began his culinary career sharpening his skills in some of North America’s most lauded restaurants, working under Chef Jesse Griffiths of Dai Due and Rene Redzepi of Noma and Noma Mexico. In 2019, Erales joined the team at Comedor as the opening Executive Chef; under his leadership, Comedor was named Best New Restaurant by Esquire and Texas Monthly. In 2021, Erales was crowned the winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Season 18, becoming the first Mexican American to ever win the competition. Looking to open his own concept, in 2023, Erales partnered with Urbanspace Hospitality to open the concept formerly known as Bacalar, a neighborhood restaurant in Austin, TX inspired by the cuisine of the Yucatán Peninsula.

In his spare time, Erales began volunteering with a nonprofit organization known as Hands Offering Hope in 2023, serving as a leader on its Culinary Advisory Board. Passionate about the organization’s potential, in 2024 he was voted by the board to lead the organization as Executive Director. Since taking on this position, Erales, alongside Board Chair Andy Ellwood, has brought the nonprofit into its next chapter with a rebrand to Oído Culinary Academy. With a mission to redefine the possibilities for marginalized youth of the Yucatán region, the program not only equips students with hands-on culinary skills through its two-year accredited cooking school but also invests in their futures with mentorship and professional development.

In his spare time, Erales can be found spending time with his family in Austin, cooking, playing sports, or traveling back and forth to Mexico.

Andy Ellwood

Andy Ellwood

Board Chair

Andy Ellwood is the Chairman of Oído, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation through education. Passionate about mentorship, he actively supports students at Casa Hope, advocating for scholarship funds to uplift the youth of Quintana Roo.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Andy has built and sold three companies and now advises founders and executives on leadership, fundraising, and growth through Crux Point, one of NYC’s fastest-growing coaching practices. His approach centers on authenticity and impact, helping leaders navigate challenges and unlock their full potential.

Fueled by curiosity, community, and a relentless competitive edge, Andy is committed to fostering learning, growth, and lasting change.

Jen Lotito

Jen Lotito

Board Director/Vice Chair

President & Chief Operating Officer, (RED)

As President and Chief Operating Officer of (RED), Jennifer Lotito leads the organization’s strategic and operational growth, ensuring its mission to fight AIDS and the systemic injustices that fuel pandemics. She oversees the expansion of the (RED) brand, driving sustainable funding and global awareness. Under her leadership, partnerships with companies such as Apple, Bank of America, Salesforce, and Fiat have helped generate over $750 million for the Global Fund, impacting more than 245 million lives.

Before joining (RED) in 2008, Jennifer was a Senior Partner at Ogilvy Worldwide, overseeing global accounts for IBM and American Express. A native of Boston, she began her advertising career at Houston Effler after earning her degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Beyond (RED), Jennifer is dedicated to mentorship and social impact. She is the Co-Founder and President of the JML Hope Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on empowering the next generation of leaders. She serves on the Goals House Advisory Board, advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and is a Board Member of Hands Offering Hope, which nurtures future hospitality and culinary leaders in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Additionally, she sits on the National Board and serves as Board Chair of the Tri-State Advisory Board for Defy Ventures, supporting entrepreneurship for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.

In 2023, Jennifer was named a Forbes.com contributor, where she writes on leadership strategy, global health, and corporate social responsibility.

Scott Lawton

Scott Lawton

Chairman of the Board

Scott Lawton is the co-founder and Chairman of the Board of bartaco, a coastal-inspired restaurant known for its fresh, upscale street food and relaxed dining experience. With over 25 years of leadership in the restaurant industry, Lawton blends innovative technology with a passion for exceptional hospitality. His vision helped redefine the guest experience, introducing bartaco’s on-demand dining model and solidifying its reputation as a beloved community staple. This pioneering approach earned bartaco the prestigious MURTEC Breakthrough Award from Hospitality Technology in 2022.

Before becoming Chairman, Lawton served as Chief Executive Officer of bartaco and Uncle Julio’s and as Chief Operating Officer of Barteca, overseeing both bartaco and Barcelona Wine Bar. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Tribeca Grill and Big Time Restaurants. A recognized thought leader in the industry, Lawton continues to inspire the next generation of restaurant innovators.

Christian Irabién

Christian Irabién

Board Director/Culinary Advisory Board

Christian Irabién is a Mexican American chef with a culinary background spanning the U.S., Mexico, Spain, and France. Born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and raised in Mexico and the US, he is the chef-owner of Amparo Fondita, where he showcases regional and traditional Mexican flavors with local and seasonal ingredients.

Amparo Fondita has earned a stellar review from Tom Siestema, food critic for the Washington Post (2023), Michelin Bib Gourmand (2024), a place on Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants (2024, 2025), recognition as one of Washington Post’s Best New Restaurants (2024), and a spot on The Eater 38.

He served as volunteer on-the-field chef for World Central Kitchen 2018 during the Tijuana border migrant crisis and 2019 in DC during the government shutdown.

In 2020, Irabién launched Muchas Gracias!, a pandemic-era pop-up supporting immigrant workers. The initiative earned him the 2020 "Keepers of the American Dream" award and led to his 2022 RAMMYS "Rising Culinary Star" award. He previously served as sous chef at Oyamel by Chef José Andrés.

He is the founder of Hospitality Humans, a nonprofit supporting immigrant workers in the hospitality industry, and co-founder and vice chair of the Latino Executive Network, connecting Latino professionals and businesses. As a Diplomatic Culinary Ambassador with the U.S. Department of State (pre-2025) and James Beard Foundation, he promotes cultural exchange through food.

He helped develop a culinary education program for La Cocina VA, a nonprofit which trains underserved Latino immigrants for igher-paying hospitality jobs in the greater DC metro area.

 

Craig Hutchinson

Craig Hutchinson

Board Director/Culinary Advisory Board

Craig Hutchinson is the Chef and COO of Olmo Bagels, a New Haven, Connecticut-based bakery that has made waves in the bagel world by winning multiple awards at the New York BagelFest, including top prize "Best of the Fest" and "Schmear of the Year." Craig is on a mission to make New Haven-style bagels as iconic as the city's pizza. Known for their style of creativity and hospitality, Hutchinson has created a standout restaurant that continues to gain national recognition.

Andy Ellwood

Andy Ellwood

Board Chair

Andy Ellwood is the Chairman of Oído, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation through education. Passionate about mentorship, he actively supports students at Casa Hope, advocating for scholarship funds to uplift the youth of Quintana Roo.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Andy has built and sold three companies and now advises founders and executives on leadership, fundraising, and growth through Crux Point, one of NYC’s fastest-growing coaching practices. His approach centers on authenticity and impact, helping leaders navigate challenges and unlock their full potential.

Fueled by curiosity, community, and a relentless competitive edge, Andy is committed to fostering learning, growth, and lasting change.

Andy Ellwood

Andy Ellwood

Board Chair

Andy Ellwood is the Chairman of Oído, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation through education. Passionate about mentorship, he actively supports students at Casa Hope, advocating for scholarship funds to uplift the youth of Quintana Roo.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Andy has built and sold three companies and now advises founders and executives on leadership, fundraising, and growth through Crux Point, one of NYC’s fastest-growing coaching practices. His approach centers on authenticity and impact, helping leaders navigate challenges and unlock their full potential.

Fueled by curiosity, community, and a relentless competitive edge, Andy is committed to fostering learning, growth, and lasting change.

Joe Della Monica

Joe Della Monica

Board Director/Finance Committee

Joe Della Monica is a Private Wealth Advisor and Managing Director of Creative Wealth Group, a Private Wealth Advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Joe has over 28 years of experience advising clients and ranks in the top 5% of advisors at Ameriprise. Joe holds a Certified Financial Planner practitioner (CFP) and Accredited Portfolio Management Advisor (APMA) designation as well as an MBA from DePaul University. Joe has been honored as a Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisor and Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Team, awarded to advisors who provide clients with a high-quality experience and lead the way in the industry.  He currently resides in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago with his husband Mike and dog Charlie, and enjoys sports, traveling, and cooking.

Steven J. Farella

Lisa Mosby

Board Director

Lisa B. Mosby is an accomplished HR leader with a passion for creating world-class employee experiences that drive business results. As the Chief People Officer at bartaco, Lisa has demonstrated her expertise in aligning people strategies with organizational goals, fostering leadership development, and enhancing workplace culture.

Her strategic approach to talent management and keen business sense has led to innovative employee programs that boost engagement, retention, and company growth.

With a proven track record in HR leadership across industries, Lisa is committed to building inclusive environments where employees thrive, contributing to both personal and professional success.

Steven J. Farella

Steven J. Farella

Board Director

BOARD EXPERIENCE
MyTelescope Inc – Board Chair
Global Forecaster

Sinecure.ai – Board Member
Global Talent Discovery

MDC Media Partners – Former Chair
Unit of MDC Partners now Stagwell Global
Full Service National Media Agency

Muscular Dystrophy Association – Former Chairman of the Board & Past Governance Chair
Actively transforming MDA into a modern non-profit

St. John’s University
Advisory Board of The College of Professional Studies – Former Chair
Adding real-world experience to a fast-paced curriculum

The Advertising Club of New York – Former Board Chair
The Voice of Advertising in NYC

Steve is an entrepreneur and a talented executive that sees opportunities, builds teams and technology to accelerate business.  He’s launched businesses and created businesses through the merger of several competing companies.  He’s s risk taker and a leader.

Steve was the founding CEO of Havas Media in the US, called MPG Media. He co-founded and was CEO of the fastest growing independent media agency in the US, TargetCast tcm, which he sold to MDC Partners, now known as Stagwell Global. Today, Steve is a Partner at VFL Investments & Advisory, backing young companies to successful exits.  In addition, he is Board Chairman of MyTelescope Inc and a Board member of Sinecure.ai.

Before launching media agencies, Steve built and managed media groups at several leading national advertising agencies including Jordan McGrath Case & Partners, Young & Rubicam, Wells Rich Greene/BDDP and Ammirati & Puris. He began his career at Benton & Bowles. Steve has been recognized by his peers as Media Executive of the Year, Media All Star as well as CEO of TargetCast tcm as it was Media Agency of the Year. He served on several committees at the 4As, has been a speaker at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and at St. John’s University.  Steve was President of the Advertising Club of New York, then chaired its Foundation. He was also Chairman of the Advisory Board of St. John's University's College of Professional Studies for 10 years where he was awarded the Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award in 2007 and was inducted into St. John’s University’s Heritage Circle in 2017.

Steve was also a long time Board Member of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and served as its Chairman. He holds a BS in Communications from St. John’s University and currently lives in Westchester.

Amy Dominguez

Amy Dominguez

Founder Emeritus, Board Advisor

As the Director of Disaster Services at Vibrant Emotional Health, Amy leads strategic oversight of disaster behavioral health responses, engagements, and advocacy efforts. With a distinguished career spanning nearly two decades, Amy has been at the forefront of disaster behavioral health since 2007, serving as a program director and volunteer leader. Her impact extends globally, with professional contributions impacting 10+ countries across five continents.

Amy’s extensive experience encompasses training in disaster behavioral health, fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors, strategic communications, and high-level team management. Recent highlights of her career include training teams in trauma-informed leadership strategies, supporting national responses to refugee crises through cross-sector collaboration, developing child-focused disaster recovery programs in educational settings, and facilitating an esteemed annual conference on disaster behavioral health thought leadership.

A respected trainer, writer, and speaker, Amy specializes in organizational leadership and best practices. She plays an integral role in strategic program development for youth initiatives in Latin America and serves as an advisor to the Board of Directors for Oído, as well as the Advisory Board for the SAMHSA-funded Refugee and Migrant Technical Assistance Center for Behavioral Health. Amy holds a Master’s in Public Affairs from Indiana University and balances her professional pursuits between Mexico and Connecticut, where she resides with her husband, Adiel, and their daughters, Sofia and Lucia.

Andy Ellwood

Andy Ellwood

Board Chair

Andy Ellwood is the Chairman of Oído, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation through education. Passionate about mentorship, he actively supports students at Casa Hope, advocating for scholarship funds to uplift the youth of Quintana Roo.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Andy has built and sold three companies and now advises founders and executives on leadership, fundraising, and growth through Crux Point, one of NYC’s fastest-growing coaching practices. His approach centers on authenticity and impact, helping leaders navigate challenges and unlock their full potential.

Fueled by curiosity, community, and a relentless competitive edge, Andy is committed to fostering learning, growth, and lasting change.

Jonathan Strasner

Jonathan Strasner

Finance Committee/Treasurer

Jonathan has been a part of the Oído (previously Hands Offering Hope) community since his first trip to Kantunilkín in 2019. Immediately, Jonathan knew there was something unique and powerful about the program and the community it serves. Since then, he has served in various roles including as a visiting instructor, on the building committee for Casa Hope, and as a member of the Finance Committee. As Treasurer, Jonathan is responsible for managing Oído's financial health, ensuring transparency, and supporting mission-aligned fiscal decision-making. He works closely with Oído's Executive Director, Board and staff to develop long-term financial strategies while overseeing day-to-day financial operations. Jonathan's professional background includes 10+ years in marketing, risk management, operations, and finance, most recently as a Treasury Analyst for Weiss Asset Management, a Boston-based hedge fund. Jonathan founded His Purpose Publishing, LLC, a faith-based publishing company, in 2023 and Cultura Nativa Shipping, LLC, a high-end retailer of Mayan furniture, in 2020 with two community members he met through Oído. Jonathan holds a BA in Business from Brandeis University. He lives in Winthrop, MA with his wife and their three children.

Andy Ellwood

Andy Ellwood

Board Chair

Andy Ellwood is the Chairman of Oído, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation through education. Passionate about mentorship, he actively supports students at Casa Hope, advocating for scholarship funds to uplift the youth of Quintana Roo.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Andy has built and sold three companies and now advises founders and executives on leadership, fundraising, and growth through Crux Point, one of NYC’s fastest-growing coaching practices. His approach centers on authenticity and impact, helping leaders navigate challenges and unlock their full potential.

Fueled by curiosity, community, and a relentless competitive edge, Andy is committed to fostering learning, growth, and lasting change.

Adiel Dominguez

Adiel Dominguez

President, Oído Mexico

Adiel serves as the Youth Director at Hall Neighborhood House, where he has dedicated the past decade to nurturing and guiding young people through various organizations. In his role, he runs a licensed after-school program approved by the Office of Early Childhood in Connecticut, further demonstrating his commitment to providing high-quality care and enrichment. With a deep passion for empowering youth and cultivating future leaders, Adiel is dedicated to aligning the care provided at Hall with the values and aspirations of families.

In addition to his role in youth development, Adiel is a talented fine artist and photographer. He incorporates art therapy into the Youth Services curriculum, using his artistic skills to offer students therapeutic and creative ways to express themselves and address their emotional and psychological needs.

Adiel has also achieved multiple certificates through the Office of Early Childhood in Youth Development, best practices for youth programs, and basic life support certifications, reflecting his ongoing commitment to excellence in his field. Originally from Mexico, Adiel holds a Bachelor's degree in Business and Tourism from CUV Mexico and a Master's in Business Administration from Sacred Heart University. He resides in Trumbull, Connecticut, with his wife Amy, and their daughters.

Alejandro Ventura

Alejandro Ventura

Community Coordinator

Alejandro represents hope made real. As a former student of the Leadership Institute, his story is a testament to the power of believing in young people. Today, in his role as Community Coordinator, Alejandro not only leads but also inspires other young people to take charge of their lives. His connection with local communities is genuine, and his daily commitment to the comprehensive development of new generations is admirable. He is a role model, both inside and outside the classroom.

David Dzul

Chef Academic Coordinator

David is an enthusiastic chef with a deep pride in his Yucatan and Quintana Roo roots. He inspires his students to succeed with motivation and discipline, preparing them for a better future with quality tools and knowledge. In addition to academics, he is an entrepreneurial inspiration, paving the way for each of his students to follow.

Jessica Gamboa

Jessica Gamboa Yepez

Administrative Coordinator

Jessica is a young woman who perfectly balances efficiency and compassion. With a strategic mind and strong work ethic, she manages resources wisely and thoughtfully. But beyond the numbers, Jessica understands that every administrative decision directly affects students. Her quiet yet vital work keeps the organization running smoothly, making sure that each project succeeds.

Pamela Chuc

Pamela Chuc

Self-Expression Teacher

Pamela guides her students to discover themselves through art and self-expression. Her educational approach, focused on authenticity and creativity, allows young people to reconnect with their identity, value themselves, and communicate from the heart. In each class, Pamela instills confidence and helps build not only skills but also self-esteem.

Paty Aparicio

Paty Aparicio

Hospitality Assistant at Casa Hope

Paty is the heart and soul of Casa Hope. With her warmth, attentiveness, and cheerfulness, she transforms the space into a true home for those who visit. Her work goes far beyond everyday tasks: she cares for, listens to, and makes everyone feel welcome. Her genuine hospitality and constant smile are an essential part of the experience for those who come to Casa Hope for the first time.

Ricardo Sánchez

Ricardo Sánchez

Site Director, México

Ricardo is a leader who listens, guides, and transforms. With a blend of human warmth and organizational skills, he has turned every challenge into an opportunity for growth for the team and the young people at the Institute. His commitment to youth leadership is not only professional but deeply personal: he firmly believes in the power of education as an engine of change and in transforming generational roles to provide new resources and goals for young people. In addition to overseeing site operations and finances, Ricardo instills vision, mentorship, and a sense of purpose in the young people he comes into contact with.

Sue Morales

Sue Morales

Language Teacher

Sue is a passionate educator who understands language as a tool for freedom. She teaches English and French with love and patience, opening new windows to the world for her students. But beyond language, what Sue teaches is self-confidence, perseverance, and vision for the future. Her vocation knows no bounds, and her impact extends beyond the classroom.