Elena Villanueva

Research Specialist

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Jyväskylä, Finland | Filipino

Superpower: Decoding complex information to uncover the best funder partnerships aligned with an organization’s mission.

Elena Villanueva has experience helping nonprofits and social enterprises with strategic fundraising, including prospect research, grant writing, donor cultivation, and grants management. Prior to Black Fox Global, she has supported 30+ organizations across the U.S., Asia, Latin America, and Africa in areas like education, poverty alleviation, economic empowerment, climate adaptation, and community-led development through Smarter Good.

Her passion for social change stems from eight years of volunteer work with CISV International, leading youth programs on active global citizenship. Elena holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Ateneo de Manila University and a master’s degree in development, education, and international cooperation from the University of Jyväskylä.


My journey into the impact sector began at a young age through my involvement with CISV International, a nonprofit focused on peace education. Over eight years of volunteering in youth programs, I became more aware of global challenges like poverty and inequality, particularly in the Philippines. This experience led me to pursue a career in the impact sector, with a long-term goal of teaching and creating lasting social change.

I’m very passionate about food, sustainability, and nature. I love to cook, explore new restaurants, and learn how food connects to culture, history, and people. My interest in sustainability and sustainable living aligns with my love for being outdoors, hiking in parks and coastal trails, and practicing yoga, Pilates, and barre.