Mandi Zapata
Central Texas Co-Regional Director

Mandi has been affected by the system in numerous ways. She experienced the system as child of an incarcerated parent then later, as an incarcerated parent of children. While incarcerated, Mandi shared her story as a participant in the Women's Storybook Project with CBS Evening News. This was her first moment of advocacy, speaking for mothers in prison who understand the value of continued connection with their children. She served 7 years and has been home since May 1, 2019. Her criminal justice involvement has shaped her perspective, and passion. She is not only interested in sharing her experience to educate others but also to encourage those who were formerly incarcerated to have faith that success in society is possible. Mandi currently works as a project coordinator and is active in prison ministry.