STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2024: MAÑANAS CON GANAS BUILDING COMUNIDAD

This free one-day conference will bring together students from Riverside and surrounding areas to provide tools and strategies to overcome institutional and personal barriers impeding the success of underrepresented students. This conference will center on cultivating the unique skills of students as they develop into active community leaders. This conference is intended for 11th & 12th grade high school students and first and second year college students. Breakfast & Lunch Included. SPACE IS LIMITED. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. REGISTER SOON.

This conference will include: Community Networking, Scholarship Opportunities, Dynamic Workshops & Speakers including: College Preparation, Civic Engagement, Financial Empowerment, Healthy Living, Film, Art, and Leadership Development!

• Track 1: COLLEGE PREPARATION (Dr. Kris Acevedo): “Breaking Generational Curses: Fighting the Imposter Syndrome,” a powerful 50-minute session crafted for our men of color students. Led by Dr. Acevedo, a first-generation Hispanic male educator, cancer survivor, and former Division 1 collegiate student-athlete, this workshop is rooted in real-life resilience. Dr. Acevedo's journey includes overcoming academic dismissal (aka being kicked out of college), homelessness, and food and housing insecurity, to achieving success as a college professor, landlord, and real estate investor. This workshop is designed to help you overcome self-doubt and achieve your goals!
• Track 2: CIVIC ENGAGEMENT (Carolina Cardenas): “Pathway to Civic Engagement: Your Start to Public Service” Learn how to engage your community (and your leadership!) by joining us for,”Pathway to Civic Engagement: Your Start to Public Service”. Led by Carolina “Lina” Cardenas, a first-generation UCR Alumna and now Field Representative in the California Assembly, overcame homelessness as she unlocked a forever pathway into public service. Beginning with her roots in student advocacy, Lina found the tools and mentorship necessary to impact her communities through effective communication and leadership development. This workshop is designed to develop your ability to recognize opportunities for civic engagement, leadership development, and making the impact you would like to see in your community’s region.
• Track 3: FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT(Karena Zermendo): "Youth and Money: Preparing for Financial Independence" This workshop is an opportunity for youth to learn how to make the most of every penny so they may achieve financial independence they want - when they need it.
• Track 4: HEALTHY LIVING (Dr. Evita-Rocha): "Become a Mental Health Hero for your Comunidad: Exploring a Career in Psychiatry" Did you know mental health diagnoses are on the rise? Curious about how YOU can be a part of the solution? Let’s talk about it! We will explore the exciting world of psychiatry, what psychiatrists do, and the path to becoming one. Discover if this rewarding career aligns with your future goals. Leave empowered with info and resources to kick-start your psychiatry journey!
• Track 5: FILM (Scott Hernandez): "Exploring Careers in Film and TV Production" Are you passionate about movies and television? Do you dream of seeing your name in the credits or working behind the scenes on your favorite shows? Join us for an exciting and informative workshop designed to introduce high school students to the diverse and dynamic careers available in the film and TV industry.
• Track 6: LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (Eddie Torres)"Building Latino Leadership in the Inland Empire: Para el Ser, Y la Comunidad, For the Self and the Community" This workshop is designed to cultivate and enhance Latino leadership in the Inland Empire, focusing on strategies to empower and uplift local communities. Participants will explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Latinos in the region, engage in discussions on civic engagement, and develop skills in advocacy, organizing, and leadership. Special attention will be given to supporting Latino men, addressing the distinct barriers they encounter, and providing tailored strategies to enhance their leadership potential. Through this interactive session and real-world examples, attendees will gain the tools and knowledge needed to lead with confidence and create lasting change in their communities.

• Track 1: COLLEGE PREPARATION (Ben Vargas): "El Nuevo Hombre: How Toxic Masculinity Influences Us Into Adulthood" In an effort to advance young Latino males into academic scholars, young professionals, and community leaders, it is critical to 1) understand our influences of toxic masculinity and 2) work hard to change these behaviors and beliefs that may have negative effects as we navigate personal relationships, higher education, and the professional workplace.
• Track 2: CIVIC ENGAGEMENT (Carolina Cardenas): “Pathway to Civic Engagement: Your Start to Public Service” Learn how to engage your community (and your leadership!) by joining us for,”Pathway to Civic Engagement: Your Start to Public Service”. Led by Carolina “Lina” Cardenas, a first-generation UCR Alumna and now Field Representative in the California Assembly, overcame homelessness as she unlocked a forever pathway into public service. Beginning with her roots in student advocacy, Lina found the tools and mentorship necessary to impact her communities through effective communication and leadership development. This workshop is designed to develop your ability to recognize opportunities for civic engagement, leadership development, and making the impact you would like to see in your community’s region.
• Track 3: FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT(RCC Financial Aid- Maria & Alexis Urena): "Scholarships 101 – An Inside Guide to College Scholarships" In our workshop, we will cover college scholarships, including what they are, how to find them, and how to apply. We will emphasize important aspects of writing a successful scholarship essay and requesting a recommendation letter. Additionally, we will offer useful tips and timelines to help ensure optimal success.
• Track 4: HEALTHY LIVING -BRING A YOGA MAT(Dr. Bertha Barraza & Wendy Gaines): "Sound Bath for the Body and Mind" The sound bath session begins with softer sounds, gently guiding into an introspective state of relaxation. The practitioner layers and modulates the sounds, including deep, resonant gong vibrations that seem to fill the space completely. Come and enjoy a relaxing experience that may heal your mind and soul. Some studies propose that exposure to specific frequencies may help induce a state of relaxation or calmness.
• Track 5: Art (Franky Castle): “The Power of Art through Struggle en La Vida: Finding Hope in the World of Art” Join us for an inspirational 50-minute session. Led by local artist Francisco Castillo aka Franky Castle, born in Guadalajara, Jalisco Franky immigrated to southern California where he became a graffiti artist during his young years. His street smarts led him to navigate the troubled streets in search of healing and answers leading him to a world of artistic abilities and entrepreneurship. This workshop offers hope and inspiration. It is designed to help the student see their creative and healing potential. Si Se Puede!
• Track 6: LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (Amanda Limon) "Unleash Your Leadership Potential & Discover Your Leadership Qualities" Are you ready to discover your leadership qualities? This workshop is designed to inspire and empower you to step outside your comfort zone and unlock your true leadership potential. We will delve into the essence of leadership, identify your own unique leadership qualities, and equip you with the skills to strengthen your inner leader. Get ready to unleash your leadership potential and become the leader you were born to be!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Riverside City College, 4800 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, United States