Amanda Defran is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with over a decade of experience supporting high-performing teams and managing complex operations across the tech, nonprofit, and government sectors. She is known for her ability to bring clarity to ambiguity, streamline workflows, and keep fast-moving projects on track without losing sight of the details.
Her background includes executive support, cross-functional project coordination, and process improvement in environments ranging from startups to large-scale defense programs. Amanda’s work style is defined by adaptability, strategic thinking, and a collaborative spirit.
As a first-generation Mexican American raised by an immigrant parent, Amanda developed a deep understanding of resilience, hard work, and systemic inequities from an early age. Witnessing her family work twice as hard for fewer opportunities shaped her commitment to equity and access. This perspective led her to pursue a degree in Women’s Studies, with a minor in Chicano Studies, where she continues to deepen her understanding of the communities she serves and the broader social systems that impact them.
"Ways to Dismantle Machismo"
In this featured Planned Parenthood Pacific Southwest blog post, Amanda Defran explores five actionable ways to challenge and dismantle machismo in our communities. Drawing from both cultural insight and lived experience, she outlines practical strategies for promoting emotional expression, equitable responsibilities, inclusive language, and active allyship.
The piece encourages readers to reflect on how everyday behaviors can either reinforce or resist harmful gender norms and offers accessible steps toward building more respectful, affirming, and gender-equitable communities.