08/20/2025
✨ Behind every movement are visionaries. Meet three of the inspiring founders who shaped GATE Global
Dr. Cresly Taylor
A respected TESOL instructor and special education teacher in NYC, Dr. Taylor has dedicated her career to inclusive pedagogy, curriculum design, and educational leadership. As an author and mentor, she has empowered diverse learners and inspired educators to embrace equity and cultural responsiveness. Honored at the 2025 Empowerment Awards, she continues to shape globally minded educational communities.
Elddry Castillo
From a full-time mom and clerk to Program Director of the Adult Literacy Program at Children’s Aid in New York City, Elddry embodies the immigrant dream. Her ESOL teaching journey began as a volunteer and blossomed into award-winning leadership. With multiple teaching awards (2016–2021), a Master’s in Educational Management, and ongoing PhD studies in Development Administration, she is a role model for resilience, family strength, and community service.
Ria Serrano
A proud Filipino-American and community architect, Ria’s journey from cashier to fashion/tech professional to civic leader exemplifies resilience. Through leadership roles in JCI, PACCAL, and numerous cultural and humanitarian organizations, she has built programs in senior wellness, youth engagement, women’s empowerment, and international relief. Her legacy is woven into the fabric of Filipino-American civic life in Jersey City and beyond.
Together with their fellow founder, Dr. Rosemarie Parreno, these leaders brought to life a vision: to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for multicultural individuals through education, training, and empowerment.
💙 Their stories remind us that change begins with passion, service, and a commitment to community.
Learn more: www.gate-inc.org
