Maru Cortazar is a nonprofit executive and strategic advisor specializing in Latin America with more than 20 years of experience in access to justice, pro bono leadership, civil society strengthening, and human rights. As Executive Director of Appleseed México (2005–2026), she led the organization’s growth into a national leader in pro bono mobilization, building alliances with international donors and more than 70 leading law firms as members of Appleseed’s Pro Bono Network in Mexico. Her expertise spans governance, institutional development, migration, child protection, fundraising, and cross-sector partnerships. She currently serves on the Advisory Board of New Perimeter (DLA Piper) and advises initiatives focused on legal empowerment and social impact.