By Amanda Fernández, Founder & CEO, Latinos for Education 

Over the past several weeks, we have had the privilege of sharing stories from some of our team members at Latinos for Education. Each one moved me, grounded me, and reminded me why this work is so urgent. The stories reminded me of something I take very personally: Latinos for Education is powered by people whose lived experiences mirror those of millions of Latino students and families across the country. 

When “Cheko” described being dismissed by the very counselor meant to guide him, I heard the echoes of countless young Latinos who are told that their dreams are too big. Yet, like so many of our students, Cheko refused to accept someone else’s low expectations. His journey from a 1.7 GPA to a PhD candidate speaks to the brilliance that our systems often overlook. 

When Mara shared her early years in Houston, arriving undocumented and searching for belonging, she reminded me how deeply representation shapes possibility. Her life shifted the moment she saw a Latino professor at the front of a classroom. Her experience mirrors the reality of thousands of young people who are looking for even one adult who can say, “I see you. You belong.” 

When Manny reflected on translating for his mother in courtrooms and navigating systems that were not built for families like his, he captured the resilience so many Latino children must develop far too early. His path to becoming the first Afro– Indigenous Latino elected to the Salem School Committee shows the power of turning hardship into purpose. 

Each of these stories is deeply personal. More importantly, each one is universal. They reflect the sacrifices, the doubts, the strength, and the hope that define so many Latino families. These stories tie us to the communities we serve and remind us why this mission must continue. 

Our work requires clarity, courage, and collective commitment. The progress we are fighting for, and the leaders we are developing, depend on the support of people who believe that our community deserves to be represented, heard, and empowered. 

This year, during our Meeting the Moment campaign, we set a goal to raise ten thousand dollars and we’ve made tremendous progress, but there is still more to go. Every contribution helps us cultivate Latino educators, grow Latino leadership, and ensure that families have the support and advocacy they need. 

If these stories touched you or reminded you of your own journey or that of someone you love, I invite you to stand with us. Your support helps create the conditions for the next generation of Latino students to thrive, just like the members our team here at Latinos for Education. 

Thank you for believing in this mission and for walking with us as we continue to build the future our communities deserve. 

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Amanda Fernandez is the CEO and Founder of Latinos for Education, the first national organization dedicated to advancing Latino leadership in education. Under her visionary leadership, the organization has expanded from a Boston-based nonprofit to a national leader in education policy, advocacy, and leadership development. Amanda serves on the Massachusetts Governor’s Latino Empowerment Council and previously co-chaired the education committee on Governor Healey’s transition team. She has been recognized with prestigious awards like the McNulty Prize Catalyst Fund and the Innovator of Color Award by ASU GSV. Amanda holds a Master of Science in Adult Education from Fordham University.