Meet the Team
Gideon Cionelo
Gideon Cionelo
Founder & Director
Gideon is a Filipino-American lawyer who formerly taught at a children’s home in the Philippines. He looks forward to helping students in the Philippines pursue their dreams.
Matthew Welk
Matthew Welk
Treasurer & Director
Matt spent 3 years teaching and working at a children’s home in the Philippines. He saw firsthand how once these kids mature, they aren’t provided with any avenues to better themselves or their future. He knows what a true life-altering opportunity Filipino Futures offers and is proud to be a part of the team.
Liza Lawson Risoldi
Liza Lawson Risoldi
Secretary & Director
Liza is a Thai-European American who worked in Arizona public education for 12 years. She is passionate about creating equitable educational access for all youth. Currently, she is an Assistant Attorney General in the Consumer Protection and Advocacy Division of the Arizona Attorney General's Office.