Our Cofounders
Erika Estudillo De Ponce
Born and raised in Mexico City, Erika comes from a lineage of resilient women entrepreneurs who courageously migrated to the U.S. in 2000, overcoming countless challenges as newcomers. Like many immigrant women, Erika faced the daunting reality of leaving her family and life behind, learning a new language, adapting to unfamiliar cultures, and navigating systemic barriers.
Erika’s entrepreneurial journey began at 19 when she launched her first business while pursuing her education. Balancing studies, entrepreneurial ventures, and a rising corporate career, she secured her first management role at 21 and earned a seat on an executive team by 29, She thrived in the business world despite significant disparities and biases, including the struggle to be taken seriously as a young woman leader.With a master’s degree in Business from Pepperdine University’s prestigious Presidential and Key Executives program, Erika combines academic excellence with her lived experience to champion women’s empowerment.
Deeply attuned to the unique challenges women face in launching and growing businesses, Erika founded NowUs to transform her passion for equity into impactful action. As a transformational leader, she is committed to inspiring others to find purpose and fulfillment in their professional journeys, driving meaningful change in their lives and communities.
Ryan Bangsund
Raised in the ethnically diverse community of Salinas on California’s Central Coast, Ryan grew up with friends from all walks of life, inspiring an early appreciation for diversity and inclusion. Witnessing firsthand the inequities his friends faced compared to his own path, Ryan gained a deeper understanding of the challenges impacting underrepresented communities.
Now living in the multicultural city of Long Beach, Ryan, an MBA graduate of Pepperdine University’s esteemed Presidential and Key Executives Program, is driven by a renewed purpose to create meaningful change. With a successful career as an engineer, Ryan has worked in the manufacturing industry alongside mentors and peers at the forefront of technological innovation. His expertise spans research and development, project management, and leadership.
Ryan’s journey reflects the power of allyship, proving that men can be champions for equity and inclusion. He hopes using his skills to uplift underserved communities inspires others to take action and make a difference in creating a more equitable world.
NowUs in photos
