Ali Lapetina, Executive Director
Ali Lapetina is a teaching artist, visual storyteller, gardener and the Executive Director of Women of Banglatown. With over a decade of experience in community arts and youth development, she is passionate about expanding access to art, nature, and well-being programming for youth in Detroit and Hamtramck. She is dedicated to working alongside communities to create spaces where young people are supported and resourced to imagine and build the kinds of spaces they want to be in—spaces rooted in care, self-expression, and community. A granddaughter of immigrant and first-generation grandparents, Ali grew up listening to stories of leaving one’s homeland and the courage it takes to be the first in a family to forge new paths. These intergenerational experiences continue to inform and inspire her work today.
Iffat Ara, Organizational Development Fellow
Iffat Ara is a first-generation immigrant, oldest daughter, and sophomore at Wayne State University, where she is working toward a career in social work. She has been part of Women of Banglatown since the 5th grade, a space that helped shape her passion for community, care, and advocacy. Growing up in Hamtramck and navigating life as the eldest in an immigrant household, Iffat developed a deep understanding of the importance of support systems especially for young women and families. Her lived experiences continue to guide her commitment to creating spaces where people feel seen, safe, and valued. She is especially drawn to the fields of social work and human resources, where she hopes to center empathy, healing, and justice in everything she does.
Tasnim Dina, Youth Program Fellow
Meet Tasnim Dina, our newest Youth Program Fellow! Tasnim is a senior at Wayne State University, where she’s studying public health. She joined WOB because she’s passionate about creating inclusive, culturally-responsive spaces for young women, especially in the vibrant community of Banglatown. We’re so excited to have her on board and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll make!