Introducing José Ignacio Gaona Cardona, President and CEO of ZETA

José Ignacio Gaona Cardona, founding President and CEO of ZETA, has spent his career advancing equity and policy in the digital and advocacy sectors. With over a decade of experience in federal policy, community organizing, nonprofit leadership, and fundraising, José leads ZETA with a clear mission: empowering Gen-Z to shape the future of technology. His journey in public service began early—at just 14 years old, he served as a voting trustee on his local school board, demonstrating his early dedication to advocacy.

Born in rural Michoacán, México, and raised in Fort Bragg, California, José understands firsthand the importance of digital connectivity and literacy. He is also deeply aware of the challenges many face in accessing our digital world. His leadership spans multiple sectors, having worked with federal agencies, the White House, and Congress on initiatives related to technology, climate, civil rights, LGBTQ+ issues, and workforce development. His experience includes managing a $2.5 million annual fundraising program and overseeing advocacy campaigns that have secured billions in policy achievements. Through his work with organizations like the National Wildlife Federation and LULAC, José has built strong networks across industries, uniting communities, decision-makers, and leaders to tackle pressing social and digital issues.

At ZETA, José drives the organization’s focus to promote economic opportunities in the digital economy for new entrepreneurs, build AI as a positive tool, enhance tech & digital literacy, expand digital access, and inform tech policy decision-making. He believes passionately in Gen-Z’s ability to reshape the digital landscape. "We are at a critical point in the evolution of our digital world," he says. "Gen-Z has the intelligence, creativity, and work ethic to build a better world through technology if industry and policy-makers work with us." Under his leadership, ZETA is empowering Gen-Z voices to influence discussions on the future of tech.

Outside of his professional life, José enjoys cooking for friends and family, often sharing his culinary creations on social media. His leadership style is rooted in service to others, reflecting his commitment to uplifting the communities ZETA aims to support. Whether advocating for federal tech policy reforms or highlighting the work of emerging stars in tech, José leads with a vision of inclusivity, ensuring Gen-Z has a seat at the table as the digital age continues to unfold.

His guiding principle? “It always seems impossible until it's done,” a quote from Nelson Mandela that José embraces as he continues to drive ZETA’s mission forward.