Norbella Aguilar (she/her/ella) joined the board of Expanding Lives in the summer of 2024, where she leads fundraising efforts. With 22 years of experience in education, Norbella has taught high school and middle school Spanish. She is also the creator of Las Cartas de Frida, a theatrical project that brings to life letters written by womxn, sharing their stories, inspired by the letters of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.

An educator, community advocate, creative, and performer, Norbella’s work is deeply focused on womxn’s emotional healing and growth.

A proud single mother to her beautiful daughter, Valentina, Norbella enjoys spending time with family and friends, dancing, reading, and caring for her cats and plants. She holds an undergraduate degree in Spanish from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master’s in Education from National Louis University.