CONECTA Y CELEBRA
Cultivating the next generation of Minnesota Latine leaders con orgullo.
Conecta y Celebra bridges the critical gap between academic ambition and professional power.
Navigating higher education and early career pathways often presents unique, unwritten challenges for Latine and first-generation students. Research highlights that culturally responsive mentorship significantly improves student retention, sense of belonging, and post-grad career outcomes. For mentees, 1-on-1 guidance builds vital social capital and converts lived identity into a distinct leadership strength.
Equally, mentorship offers professional mentors and corporate ERG leaders a strategic avenue for growth. Guiding the next generation sharpens executive coaching skills, expands cross-industry networks across Minnesota, and drives meaningful retention by directly shaping an inclusive workforce. Through monthly workshops, free headshots, and structured pairings, Conecta y Celebra fosters a two-way ecosystem of Latine leadership and collective achievement.
Key Sources & Further Reading
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Culturally Responsive Mentorship & Retention: National Institutes of Health (PMC6980915)
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Transformative Role of Mentorship for Latine Leaders: LinkedIn: Fortaleciendo Futuros
Strengthen Representation — Closing post-grad equity gaps by increasing Latine retention and leadership across corporate, civic, and nonprofit sectors.
Two-Way Growth — Pairing students with seasoned leaders to build career confidence for mentees while refining executive skills for mentors.
Social & Cultural Capital — Leveraging identity con orgullo as a distinct strategic asset to navigate unwritten workplace culture.
Statewide Network — Connecting emerging talent, allies, and corporate ERGs into a sustained pipeline of Minnesota Latine leaders.
APPLY TODAY
Whether you’re looking to mentor or be mentored, there’s a place for you in this growing network of changemakers.
Share your experience, uplift emerging leaders, and help shape the future of our community.
We welcome those with at least 2 years of professional, full time work experience to apply. Applications close September 19, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
Gain valuable guidance, career insight, and connection with professionals who understand your journey.
We welcome enrolled college students in Minnesota, ages 18-24, to apply to our program. Applications close September 19, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
If you are a higher education institution and would like to host us, please contact us at info@latinoleadmn.org.
Together, we’re building networks of support that help students navigate college, career, and identity with confidence and pride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Conecta y Celebra on Campus?
Conecta y Celebra is a leadership and professional development program for Latine college students ages 18–24. The program provides mentorship, skills-building workshops, and a community of support to help students thrive academically and professionally.
Who is eligible to apply?
• Latine college students ages 18–24 • Currently enrolled in a MN college or university • Minimum 2.5 GPA • Commitment to attending monthly workshops (October 2026–June 2027)
What does the CyC ‘26-27 Program start and end?
• October 21, 2026 • November 14, 2026 • January 20, 2027 • February 17, 2027 • March 17, 2027 • April 21, 2027 • May 19, 2027 Sessions typically run from 6–8pm. All dates are subject to change.
What is the time commitment?
As a mentee, you will: • Be paired with a professional mentor who will guide and support you throughout the academic year (October 2026–June 2027). • Meet with your mentor at least three times during the program (in person or virtually). • Attend the monthly workshops focused on professional development, career readiness, and cultural identity. • Engage actively and contribute to a welcoming, supportive Latine community. As a mentor, you will: • Attend a mandatory mentor orientation/training before the program begins. • Mentor 1–3 students throughout the academic year. • Meet with your mentees at least three times during the program (in person or virtually). • Participate in networking and community-building sessions during Conecta y Celebra events. • Workshops are designed for students; however, we will ask mentors to participate in 2–3 of these sessions (including graduation and a Saturday event). Sessions typically run from 6–8pm.
Where do workshops take place?
The workshops that are held in person will be in our offices at 155 Wabasha St. S, Suite 105, Saint Paul, MN 55107. Participants will be required to provide their own transportation. Free parking is widely available. Some sessions will be held virtually, in which fellows will be notified in advance.
Higher Ed Hosting:
Any interested higher education institutions that are interested to host or partner for Conecta y Celebra presentations, workshops, or other forms of support that celebrate and empower Latine communities, please contact us at info@latinoleadmn.org. We would love to work with Latine student groups and staff to reach our audience.
Do I receive college credit?
Not from our end, but we are happy to sign off on any documentation that may give you credit towards your institution.
What is the schedule for the program?
The session schedules will be announced soon.
What is the Deadline to Apply?
Applications for the 2026-2027 cohort are due by September 19, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
How do I apply?
In order to apply, you must submit an application through our application portal. The google forms are available through the buttons below until the application deadline closes.
How many applicants are accepted?
Through a rigorous and competitive process, our selection committee seeks to admit a cohort representing all majors.
How are mentors matched with students?
Matches are based on: • Career interests or major • Personal and leadership goals as indicated on mentor and mentee applications • Compatibility in communication style and mentorship preferences
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The program is free for both students and mentors!
What will students gain from the program?
Students will: • Receive 1:1 mentorship from a professional • Build leadership and career readiness skills • Grow professional networks • Develop confidence navigating college-to-career pathways • Join a supportive Latine community
Can I participate if I am a first-year student or transfer student?
Yes. First-year, continuing, and transfer students are welcome as long as eligibility requirements are met.
What kind of Professions are represented in the program?
The Conecta y Celebra program welcomes all sectors and professions for mentors and all majors for students. That includes private, public, and nonprofit sectors and aims to have a balance of different professions. We try our best to to match students with mentors in their field, but that is not guaranteed.
How many applicants are accepted?
Depending on the amount of mentors participating, funding, and other factors, approximately 20 applicants are accepted each year.
What happens after the program ends?
Students will be invited to join the Conecta y Celebra alumni network, where they can continue receiving professional support, networking opportunities, and involvement in Latine community leadership pathways.
What are workshops like?
• Help students embrace their multicultural identities as leadership strengths • Equipping students with advocacy skills for campus and civic engagement • Strengthen career readiness through resumes, LinkedIn, and storytelling • Provide financial tools and confidence for first-gen students • Budget worksheets, scenario cards, financial resource handouts • Normalizing mental health support and build resilience practices • Prepare students for workplace culture, soft skills, and first jobs • Reflect, celebrate, and set future goals
How is the CyC Program Funded?
Our program is currently funded by a generous DEED youth grant through the State of Minnesota and other generations' donations.
How can I support the Conecta y Celebra Program?
Consider making a contribution or encouraging your organization to support the program financially. This will help cover costs and ensure that the program remains free for all participants, fostering professional growth and community leadership. To submit your contribution please email us at support@latinoleadmn.org If you are a college or university or student group, consider partnering with us at info@latinoleadmn.org.
Do I need to know English or Spanish?
Facilitators, sessions and the corresponding materials, are primarily in English. Students are required to have an intermediate level in order to participate in class discussions and written assignments. Los facilitadores, las sesiones y los materiales correspondientes, son principalmente en inglés. Los estudiantes deben tener un nivel intermedio para poder participar en clase y trabajos escritos.
Whom should I contact for more information?
For any questions or additional information, please contact info@latinoleadmn.org.