Elianne Bahena (she/her/ella)

Elianne "Ely" Bahena is a community advocate, civic leader, and justice-driven professional from Chicago’s La Villita neighborhood. A proud daughter of immigrant parents and first-generation college graduate, Elianne draws inspiration from her culture and community to drive positive change across the city.  

Elianne serves as Chief of Staff to Alderman Michael D. Rodriguez in the 22nd Ward, where she plays a pivotal role in connecting government initiatives with the community. In this capacity, she works to ensure that city services, community events, and policy decisions align with the needs of residents, creating tangible improvements in their quality of life. In addition, Elianne was elected as District Councilor for Chicago’s 10th Police District, representing the communities of Little Village, North Lawndale, and Pilsen. In this meaningful role, she works to improve policing and public safety while exploring and advancing effective, community-centered approaches to safety and oversight.

Her leadership extends to philanthropy and civic engagement. Elianne is Co-Chair of HACE's Chicago Auxiliary Board, a member of the Young Women’s Giving Council at the Chicago Foundation for Women, and serves on the boards of Mujeres Latinas en Acción and Urban Warriors. She is Vice President of the 22nd Ward Independent Political Organization and South City Vice Chair of the Young Cook County Democrats.  

A dedicated civic leader, Elianne is an alumna of programs including Emily’s List Ignite Fellowship, LCLAA’s Trabajadoras Fellowship, the Community Leadership Fellowship, and the Chicago Latino Caucus Foundation Leadership Academy.  

Elianne’s dedication has earned her recognition as YNPN’s Young Nonprofit Leader of the Year (2021) and a spot on HACE’s and Negocios Now’s 40 Under 40 lists. She is also a contributing author to Today’s Inspired Young Latinas, Volume IV and Community Latinx Leaders.