Our flagship initiative, Somos Carolina, creates inclusive learning experiences for Southern Latinx students to grow as scholars and leaders by encouraging them to embrace their cultural identity, become innovative problem-solvers, and thrive as critically-conscious civic leaders in their communities. Our coaching program and high school chapters support students through our pillars: Latinidad, Learning, and Leadership.
Latinidad
Know history. Know self.
Students examine Latinx identity, culture, and history to deepen their understanding of self, community, and the world.
Students advocate for opportunity, representation, and justice for the Latinx community, while uplifting Blackness and Indigeneity.
Learning
Protect youth potential.
Students practice self-awareness and critical reflection to explore their values, mindsets, and choices.
Students make intentional choices that mirror their core values and build on their strengths and community cultural wealth.
Leadership
Cultivate thriving communities.
Students reflect on their journey and practice storytelling as a means of collective healing and transformation.
Students use their talents to create systems that recognize, honor, and serve the diverse needs of Latinx immigrant families.
Meet
Our Team
Coaching Program
La cultura cura.
Semillas Summer Coaching Program
Semillas is our summer coaching program for rising Latinx 9th-12th graders hosted July 12-30, 2021 in Cary, NC. Students will receive education, high-touch support, and accountability to affirm and nurture their Latinx identities and leadership. The 2021 summer coaching program will be serving Latinx students from Orange and Lee County School Districts.
Semillas will be hosted in-person July 12-30, 2021 in Cary, NC.
Transportation and meals are provided at no cost to families.
We are looking for students that identify as…
- rising 9th-12th graders
- Latino/a/x or Hispanic
- First- or second-generation immigrants
- Future first-generation college students (having parents who did not attend college or whose college degrees are from outside the U.S.)
We are looking for students that are…
- Curious – Willing to learn and get out of their comfort zone
- Dedicated – Interested in creating change in their community
- Eager – Desiring growth and personal development
- Friendly – Seeking a community of fellow Latinx students
Students from the following schools are eligible for Semillas 2021:
- Cedar Ridge High School
- Lee County High School
- Lee Early College
- Orange High School
- Southern Lee High School
Throughout Semillas, students will be immersed in a loving and inclusive environment where they will…
- Learn about Latinx history in North Carolina.
- Identify their core values and super powers.
- Discover the transformative power of storytelling!
Registration is open enrollment and spots will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Students, sign up now!
Teachers, nominate a student!
De aquí y de allá…
High School Chapters
Join a Somos Carolina high school chapter!
Interested in building a community of like-minded students ready to embrace their culture and think about their futures?
Somos Carolina Chapters are student-led chapters dedicated to uplifting Latinx leadership to cultivate thriving schools and communities.
Students develop place-based leadership initiatives and build a support network in their educational spaces centered around Latinidad, Learning, and Leadership.
This focus allows students to engage within a community that:
affirms their cultural identity and immigrant roots
cultivates a positive relationship with learning
prepares them for next steps after high school as leaders in their communities and college campuses.
We’re hiring coaches!
Know history. Know self.
Are you interested in working with Latinx youth?
We’re on the hunt for talented and motivated people who are interested in working with rising Latinx 9th-12th graders during the 2021 Semillas Summer Coaching Program in Cary, NC from July 12-30. Coaches will facilitate group and 1:1 sessions about culture, identity, and storytelling with Somos Scholars, and foster a positive learning environment to build an inclusive culture of support, accountability, and innovation.
Somos Carolina made me appreciate my personal experience and the collective experience of Latinx students in education.
Gladys Alvarez