Latino Network: 2026 Student Leadership Conference Hosted by UCR

Step into your power at “Celebración de la Educación, Salud y Emprendimiento. Celebrating Education, Wellness & Entrepreneurship. LEARN. THRIVE. LEAD." a high-energy, one-day youth leadership summit designed to equip the next generation of Inland Empire changemakers with the tools to build their future. Hosted at UC Riverside in partnership with Latino Network, the School of Business Building, Undergraduate Education, and Governmental & Community Relations, this free conference brings together students for an immersive experience centered on total personal and professional growth.

Built around three core pillars—Education, Wellness, and Entrepreneurship—this summit goes beyond traditional academic lectures to offer a dynamic space where culture, community, and ambition intersect. Anchored by a high-energy keynote performance from nationally acclaimed empowerment speaker Ernie G, attendees will experience an unmissable blend of real-talk motivation, humor, and transformative storytelling. Through hands-on workshops, expert mentorship, and actionable panels, young leaders will learn how to navigate higher education, safeguard their mental health, and launch sustainable businesses in a rapidly evolving economy.

This conference is intended for 11th-12th grade high school students and first/second year college students. Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.

For questions, please contact event organizer Alexandra Leon at [email protected]

Info: Check-in at the School of Business Building, grab some light breakfast and check out our table partners! Plus, early arrivals may have an opportunity to take a photo with Scotty!

Info: Known as one of America’s premier empowerment speakers, Ernie G brings his signature blend of humor, raw storytelling, and real talk to help you break through self-doubt, overcome imposter syndrome, and step into your full power. If you’re ready to laugh, be inspired, and walk away with an unstoppable drive for your future, this is the one session you cannot miss.

Info: Session Title: Beyond the Degree: Business, Career Journeys, and Thriving in the Age of AI! Description: Curious about what life actually looks like after college? Join a dynamic panel of UCR MBA alumni as they pull back the curtain on their professional journeys, career pivots, and real-world business experiences. They’ll dive into how technology and Artificial Intelligence are rapidly reshaping the workplace—and give you the ultimate playbook on how to future-proof your career before you even graduate.

Info: Success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about nurturing your mind, honoring your journey, and staying grounded along the way. Led by Dr. Esperanza Arce, this transformative session offers a empowering space designed to ignite your inner motivation while providing real-world tools to protect your mental well-being. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of school, managing family expectations, or stepping into elite academic and professional environments, Dr. Arce will guide you through overcoming self-doubt, managing burnout, and turning your lived experiences into your greatest source of strength. Come gain the clarity, inspiration, and mindset needed to thrive on your own terms.

Info: Demystifying Financial Aid: FAFSA, CADAA, and Securing Your College Funding! Don't let money stand between you and your college dreams! Financial aid can feel complicated, but this workshop breaks down FAFSA and CADAA into simple, stress-free steps. Get expert guidance on navigating application updates, uncovering "hidden" grant and scholarship opportunities, and building a solid financial roadmap for your college journey.

Info: Your Blueprint to UCR: Navigating Admissions, Applications, and Campus Life! Ready to take the next big step in your educational journey? Meet directly with UCR Admissions specialists to get an insider’s look at what it takes to join the Highlander family. Whether you are a high school student or prospective transfer, this workshop walks you through requirements, application tips, personal insight questions, and everything UCR has to offer.

Info: Stand Out & Get Hired: Mastering LinkedIn, Networking, and Interview Confidence! Your personal brand is your superpower! Join the UCR Career Team for a hands-on crash course in building a killer professional online presence. Learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract recruiters, craft a narrative that highlights your unique strengths, and master the interview techniques needed to land internships, jobs, and leadership roles.

Info: Success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about nurturing your mind, honoring your journey, and staying grounded along the way. Led by Dr. Esperanza Arce, this transformative session offers a empowering space designed to ignite your inner motivation while providing real-world tools to protect your mental well-being. Whether you’re navigating the pressures of school, managing family expectations, or stepping into elite academic and professional environments, Dr. Arce will guide you through overcoming self-doubt, managing burnout, and turning your lived experiences into your greatest source of strength. Come gain the clarity, inspiration, and mindset needed to thrive on your own terms.

Info: Demystifying Financial Aid: FAFSA, CADAA, and Securing Your College Funding! Don't let money stand between you and your college dreams! Financial aid can feel complicated, but this workshop breaks down FAFSA and CADAA into simple, stress-free steps. Get expert guidance on navigating application updates, uncovering "hidden" grant and scholarship opportunities, and building a solid financial roadmap for your college journey.

Info: Your Blueprint to UCR: Navigating Admissions, Applications, and Campus Life! Ready to take the next big step in your educational journey? Meet directly with UCR Admissions specialists to get an insider’s look at what it takes to join the Highlander family. Whether you are a high school student or prospective transfer, this workshop walks you through requirements, application tips, personal insight questions, and everything UCR has to offer.

Info: Lead the Change: Grassroots Advocacy, Public Policy, and Community Power! Want to make a real impact in your community? Public policy isn't just for politicians—it's a tool for anyone who wants to create change. This session breaks down how regional policy works, how young leaders can drive social and economic justice in the Inland Empire, and how to turn your personal passion into advocacy and leadership.

Info: Closing Keynote/Giveaways: laptops, gift cards– Alex Cortez, President of Latino Network

Event venue & nearby stays

UCR School of Business, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

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