A smiling Black woman executive with her arms crossed, looking happy and confident. She is wearing an orange shirt and a beige cardigan.

about

You deserve guidance that acknowledges your identity, culture, and unique journey.

Your boldest dreams in work and life are indeed possible—let’s explore together how to make them happen.

Dr. Lynette Fraga sitting on an orange couch outside, taking notes. She is smiling, wearing pink glasses and a colorful floral dress.

A note from the Founder + CEO

Over the past 30+ years, I’ve experienced the challenges of nonprofit leadership as a woman of color.

My hard work was made even harder by the pressures of perfectionism, the systemic stumbling blocks of sexism and racism, and the lack of resources for my organization, as well as myself as a growing Latina leader. For many years, I looked for the right type of support and guidance, but didn’t find it.

Fiercely Forward exists to benefit women of color as you lead organizations committed to making your communities, your nation, and the world better.

It’s my honor to help you face down the very real obstacles that stand between you and success. I’m here to support you to be the incredible change-agent that you can be.

¡Tú puedes hacer esto! ¡Y puedes hacerlo con fuerza y compasión para ti y tu misión! Ferozmente hacia adelante!

Dr. Lynette Fraga smiling, sitting on steps in front of a building.

About Dr. Lynette M. Fraga

Coach, Consultant and Speaker

CEO + Founder of Fiercely Forward


Dr. Lynette M. Fraga is a leadership coach, strategic consultant, and speaker with over 30 years’ experience working in mission-driven organizations, including community-based and national non-profits, higher education, federal programs, and a tech startup.

Dr. Fraga worked in C-suite nonprofit leadership for 15 years, ten as CEO of Child Care Aware of America, a large national nonprofit advocacy organization with 200+ staff and a $126 million budget. Dr. Fraga can also be seen and heard in the board rooms of several nonprofit organizations committed to children, family, and community.

Dr. Fraga’s career has centered on children, families and communities, particularly those facing systemic and institutional barriers. With a degree in Special Education and Rehabilitation, a Master’s in Human Relations, and a PhD in Family Life Education and Consultation, she has worked on the front lines in foster care, youth detention facilities, and domestic violence shelters. She has also been a classroom educator in child care programs and universities, and an advocate on Capitol Hill.

As a mission-driven executive, Dr. Fraga is committed to human-centered work—putting people at the center of solutions, and honoring diverse perspectives to address complex problems.

An expert at helping leaders from every seat navigate social, organizational, personal, and professional change, Dr. Fraga works at the intersection of: nonprofit leadership and change management; racial, social, and economic justice; and identity and self.

Dr. Fraga received her coaching training at the internationally renowned Co-Active Training Institute (CTI). Her coaching specialty and focus is working with women of color nonprofit leaders and changemakers.

Dr. Fraga finds joy every day, walking in familiar or newly discovered parks, reading a great book or listening to her favorite podcasts, traveling (or planning travel), and laughing, eating, storytelling and experiencing new adventures with family and friends.

Work with Dr. Fraga to move your leadership fiercely forward!

  • Coaching

    Nonprofit BIPOC leaders and allies need and deserve space to think, reflect, strategize, and consider their goals—as a whole person—with time, intention and support.

  • Consulting

    Individualized, strategic advice for nonprofit organizations to reach tangible milestones and produce impactful results—while honoring diverse perspectives, and promoting equity, inclusion and belonging.

  • Speaking

    Dr. Lynette Fraga is a seasoned nonprofit C-level executive and engaging, motivating speaker with 30+ years of wins, losses and hard-earned lessons.

Dr. Lynette Fraga smiling, touching her necklace, standing outside of a brick building, and wearing a colorful, floral dress.

Kind words

"Lynette helped me understand what strengths and solutions I could bring to any challenge, and tackle what felt like impossible hurdles.

I attribute many of my successes to her partnership coaching skills, which have led me along the way. I will forever have the tools, skills, and insights that guide me to becoming a more confident and effective leader. Her commitment and passion for equity set her apart!”

—Michelle McCready