Meet Our Team

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.

Be’Jan G. Edmonds was born and raised in Indiana. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Marquette University Law School and earned her Bachelor’s from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she majored in Global Studies and Political Science.

Be’Jan started her law career as an Assistant City Attorney in Madison, WI before transitioning to pursue her true passion in practicing immigration law with her most recent role as Managing Attorney at an Illinois based legal services provider. She brings experience in various areas of immigration law, supervision, and nonprofit practice.

Her immigration experience includes removal proceedings, asylum, Afghan parolee support, U visas, 601a waivers, Adjustments of Status, Advance Parole, Motions to Reopen cases, and SIJS.

Outside of her love for this work, Be’Jan likes to spend her free time watching scary movies, spending time with her five younger siblings, traveling, and trying new recipes. She also loves learning about other cultures and even studied abroad three times due to her love for experiencing other customs and broadening her understanding of the world.

Ana Galindo serves as the Finance and Operations Coordinator at Human Rights Initiative of North Texas, where she supports the organization’s finance, operations, human resources, and administration. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit finance, grants management, and public-sector accountability, Ana brings a detail-oriented and mission-driven approach to her work. Prior to joining HRI, she held finance and grant roles at the International Rescue Committee and Dallas County Juvenile Department.

Originally from Honduras, Ana is bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about supporting immigrant and refugee communities through strong organizational infrastructure. Outside of work, she’s a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys exploring new cuisines from around the world and cherishes spending quality time with her family.

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.

Melody Pomraning brings over 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and mission-driven strategy—with a passion for building partnerships that drive lasting impact. She specializes in individual and corporate giving, foundation fundraising, and cause marketing, using a relationship-first approach rooted in empathy and impact.

Throughout her career, Melody has led efforts across nonprofit, legal advocacy, and human rights sectors, deepening her commitment to equity-centered missions. She holds an MBA in Leadership and Marketing and a BA in Psychology.

When she’s not working, Melody enjoys live music, weekend getaways, and discovering new local spots with friends and family.

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.