Meet Arantxa!
FCAA is pleased to welcome Arantxa Bonifaz (She/Her) to the FCAA Team. As the Research Associate, Arantxa will be working to expand FCAA’s capacity around all things data. Learn more about Arantxa!
Q: How would you describe yourself?
A: I consider myself naturally curious as I am always seeking new knowledge. In my day-to-day life, I enjoy learning new skills, exploring new ideas, gaining different perspectives, and acquiring new knowledge, whether at work or in my free time. I often seek knowledge through reading, listening to podcasts, or simply talking with people. Particularly, I enjoy meeting new people and learning from their lived experiences and backgrounds. My curiosity also fuels my passion for adventure as I love the outdoors and travelling. On trips, I am especially interested in learning about different cultures, engaging with locals, and savoring new cuisines.
Q: What drew you to this role and to FCAA?
A: Throughout my college career, I was heavily involved in research, working directly with research faculty and taking research courses. In the summers, I also participated in research internships at different universities, further solidifying not only my skill set but also my passion and drive to make a difference in public health through research.
As a recent college graduate, I was looking for positions that allowed me to do just that: make an impact in equity and health through research. The research associate role at FCAA offers a unique opportunity to apply and expand on my research skills while working towards a cause I am deeply passionate about: to foster and advocate for equity in health outcomes and HIV research, programs, and funding.
Q: What does your role mean to you?
A: This role is a perfect blend of my previous education, internships, and research experiences as it reflects the skills and interest in HIV and AIDS research I have developed over the last four years. As a research associate, I will continue to apply these skills while developing new expertise and acquiring new knowledge of the field. Working and collaborating closely with my colleagues, I hope to gain insights and learn from their expertise and experiences as well. Lastly, as a recent graduate, this role holds immense significance for me, as it marks the beginning of my professional career and lays the foundation for my growth and development in HIV and AIDS research.
Q: What are you excited to learn about FCAA and the community it serves?
A: In this role, I am most excited to learn about the current efforts in HIV philanthropy and identify strategies to guide donors and effectively mobilize resources for maximized impact and equity. Through FCAA’s network and board members, I hope to gain insights from professionals in the field into the perspectives, priorities, and realities of the communities they serve. Lastly, I am looking forward to learning from my colleagues and their experiences in the HIV and AIDS and philanthropy fields through meaningful discussions, project collaboration, and engaged research.
Q: Finally, what is something that people may be surprised to learn about you?
A: Something that people may be surprised to learn is that I was born and raised in Lima, Peru and moved to the U.S. at 12 years old. Like most Peruvians, I am a huge fan of Peruvian cuisine and our national soccer team (even though they don’t win very often). In my free time, I try to connect with my culture by attending local Peruvian events and restaurants in the D.C. area and learning how to make Peruvian dishes.