Meet Our Staff

A native of the southern sector of Dallas, Shalaina Abioye has worked in the humanitarian sector for over 15 years. She has extensive leadership, management and direct service experience. Shalaina was introduced to this sector as a volunteer, after spending six years in the semiconductor industry. The first refugee family she met back in 2007, drew her into this work where her passion grew in increasing protection, impact and reach to the immigrant community, as well as in sharing their stories.

Through her various leadership positions at three nonprofits, a research consulting firm, and serving as a graduate faculty member for 8 years, Shalaina brings extensive strategic planning, change management, and operations experience to the organization. She holds a BBA, a Master of Arts in Diplomacy with a focus on International Peace & Conflict Management, and has completed her coursework for a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership/Development.

When Shalaina is away from work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and son and loves to travel.

Born and raised in Quito, Ecuador, Margarita earned her law degree from Universidad de las Americas. She recently relocated to Texas with her family and brought with her a strong desire to help immigrant communities and empower them to reach their full potential. Prior to HRI, Margarita practiced intellectual

Outside of HRI she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling and writing. She is an avid arts and crafts enthusiast.

Zeyla, a Texas native, is a graduate of the University of North Texas in Denton where she studied International Studies and Spanish. Before joining the team in 2013, Zeyla was a committed HRI volunteer and translator. When she’s not assisting HRI’s lawyers and clients, Zeyla can be found immersed in the arts–having trained in ballet and modern dance for 15 years.

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Naschaly attended the University of Puerto Rico at Carolina where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology. In 2019, Naschaly moved to Texas to obtain her Master of Science in Criminology at the University of Texas at Dallas. She’s passionate about advocating for women’s rights and the rights of those who have been wrongfully convicted. Outside of HRI, Naschaly is passionate about animal rescue, and enjoys weightlifting and any activity that requires being physically active.

Antonio is a Texas native and attended the University of Texas at Arlington earning his bachelor’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice. He then worked in Dallas County, which pushed him towards law in order to help people. He attended and graduated from the University of Massachusetts School of Law. When not working, he likes to spend time with his dog and friends, enjoying some live music, or just exploring the city.