By Katalina Mendoza, Enterprise for Youth Program Associate

Being a facilitator with Enterprise’s Reimagine Internship has given me the opportunity to work with amazing Latina and Black women wanting to make changes for their own academic futures and professional lives. Every other Thursday is my favorite day as these young women have reminded me how important self-reflection, speaking your truth, and telling your story can be.

We created a space for the women to think about moments that have made an impact on the person they are today.

The women shared experiences of not having support systems growing up, adults discouraging them from being themselves, being bullied for not fitting into gender norms, and the difficulty of standing up for others despite the risk of negativity and judgment. What makes these incredible women unique and heroic is how they want to use these painful experiences to uplift others.

I was truly reminded of why the work we do at Enterprise for Youth gives youth the empowerment and extra support they need to be the best version of themselves and excel in any space they work in. I am really looking forward to what the rest of the Reimagine Internship has in store for these young women and I am so proud to be part of their journeys.