Lynnette Pérez Pizarro

A businesswoman driving change and Latino representation

Philadelphia, PA. –  Lynnette Pérez Pizarro’s leadership is measured not only by her professional achievements but also by her impact on the community and her commitment to the next generation of leaders. With a career spanning finance, corporate leadership, and advocacy for equity, she has built a path to success based on hard work and determination.

From an early age, she knew she wanted to create meaningful change in historically underserved communities. Her career in accounting and corporate leadership has allowed her to grow professionally while also opening doors for others.

“True empowerment comes not just from economic growth but from advocating for systemic change,” she affirms. Throughout her career, she has learned that success is not just about personal advancement but about creating spaces where everyone can thrive.

One of the most significant milestones in her career was her recognition by ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals For America), where she received the prestigious Women of ALPFA Award, the highest honor within the organization. “This award validated my commitment to mentorship and empowerment. It was a reminder that my work is making a difference,” she says.

Another key moment was receiving the ERG Leadership of the Year Award, which helped her realize the impact of her work in increasing Latinx representation in corporate spaces. “That’s when I truly understood the importance of making our community visible—not just in leadership positions, but also in its economic influence,” she recalls.

Educating Clients
Currently, Lynnette serves as Controller at Novak Francella CPA, a firm specializing in labor unions and nonprofit organizations. Her role allows her to advise clients on financial compliance, but what she is most passionate about is the company’s philosophy: “We don’t just do the work for our clients—we teach them how to do it themselves,” she explains.

Her commitment to Latinx professional development led her to become involved with ALPFA, a global organization with over 40 professional chapters and 250 student chapters. From her first experience with ALPFA, she was drawn to its mission and has held various leadership roles, from Membership Director to President of the Philadelphia Chapter.

Committed to increasing Latinx representation in corporate spaces.

Lynnette Pérez Pizarro tiene una trayectoria de resilencia.

Don’t Be Afraid
Today, Lynnette leads Women of ALPFA at a national level, a program dedicated to empowering Latina women across industries. “We want future generations of women to have access to mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities,” she says with pride.

Throughout her career, she has faced challenges common to Latina women in corporate America: stereotypes, lack of representation, and limited access to mentorship and promotions. However, instead of letting these obstacles hold her back, she used them as motivation. “It’s crucial not to be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and build connections with people who can help you advance,” she advises.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are also central to her work. At a time when many companies are cutting back on DEI initiatives, Lynnette emphasizes that diversity is not just a social commitment but a business strategy. “Companies that prioritize diversity see a positive impact on their bottom line. The key is creating inclusive cultures and providing real opportunities for diverse talent to grow,” she explains.

Her leadership also extends to the National Conference of Puerto Rican Women (NACOPRW), an organization with over 53 years of history. NACOPRW is currently undergoing a restructuring process to strengthen its impact and expand to new cities. As part of its initiatives, it is organizing its upcoming annual conference in Puerto Rico in November 2025, a key event for the Puerto Rican community in the U.S.

Beyond her work in leadership and mentorship, Lynnette has been actively involved in humanitarian relief efforts. She was part of a coalition of organizations that raised over $500,000 to aid Puerto Rico after Hurricane María, allocating funds to microloans and essential supplies for the island’s reconstruction.

Success Comes from Confidence
When asked about the advice she always shares with aspiring leaders, her response is clear: “Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Success comes from believing in yourself and building relationships that propel you forward.”

For Lynnette, continuous learning and expanding one’s horizons are essential for professional growth. “Don’t limit yourself to what’s happening in your city. Seek opportunities, learn from different industries, and, most importantly, don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Go out and create them,” she emphasizes.
With a career defined by resilience, leadership, and social commitment, Lynnette Pérez Pizarro is a prime example of how Latina women are redefining success in corporate America and beyond.

Por: Martin Alfaro
Fotos: Simón Bolívar | Hispanic Media