Filipino American nonprofit leader and educator Venessa Manzano, founder of the Filipino School of New York and New Jersey, is among 99 women endorsed by Elect Women NJ for local office in the state’s 2026 elections.
Elect Women NJ said its largest endorsed cohort to date represents 20 of New Jersey’s 21 counties. The organization said it selected the candidates following a competitive process and invested in nearly 80% of the women who applied.
The 2026 slate includes candidates seeking countywide, municipal and school board offices. Elect Women NJ said 60 of its endorsed candidates are challengers or seeking open council seats, reflecting a growing number of women running for local office.
Manzano is a nonprofit executive, cultural advocate and longtime community leader who founded the Filipino School of New York and New Jersey in 2008. The organization offers programs in Filipino language, folk dance, history and traditions, serving children and adults in the region.
The school was established after Manzano moved to Jersey City and sought a way to preserve Filipino culture for younger generations. It has primarily served families in Bergen and Hudson counties, where a significant share of New Jersey’s Filipino population lives.
Manzano’s work has been shaped by her own background in community organizing and education. While attending Northeastern University, she co-founded Barcata, the school’s Filipino student organization. She later earned a master’s degree in nonprofit management from Columbia University.
In 2015, the Philippine Consulate General in New York named Manzano among its Distinguished Filipino Women in New York, recognizing her work in education, cultural preservation and community service.
Through the Filipino School, Manzano has helped create a space where Filipino American families can connect with heritage while building relationships across generations. Programs have included Tagalog instruction, traditional folk dance, arts and cultural workshops.
Elect Women NJ said its endorsement process is intended to support Democratic women candidates and expand the pipeline of women leaders across the state. The organization described this year’s cohort as its broadest geographic reach, with women candidates represented in nearly every New Jersey county.
Council members play an important role in local government by setting municipal policy, approving budgets, guiding redevelopment and overseeing public services. Elect Women NJ said council races make up its largest office category in 2026.
Editor’s note: Manzano received a 2011 TOFA-NY Award in the Youth and Sports category at Carnegie Hall, New York.
