CONECTA Y CELEBRA
ON CAMPUS
Youth mentorship, leadership, & professional development program
Conecta y Celebra on Campus brings mentorship directly to students.
Students engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy free professional headshots, and share in a community celebration that highlights Latine excellence in education and leadership.
Strengthens Latine representation in higher education & professional spaces.
Cultivates intergenerational mentorship and leadership.
Celebrates cultura, identity, and collective achievement.
Creates pathways for long-term connection & community impact.
How to Apply
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.
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.
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 (September 2026–May 2027)
What does the CyC ‘26-27 Program start and end?
The program begins with an orientation on September 16, 2026, and officially begins on October 21, 2026 to May 19, 2027. Program dates may change, in which case participants will be notified.
What is the time commitment?
- The program meets one evening per month - Students are required to meet with their mentors at least 3 times throughout the duration of the program. - Third Wednesday of every month, 6:00–8:00 PM - Runs September through May: [September 16, 2026: (Orientation), October 21, 2026: Session 1, November 18, 2026: Session 2, January 20, 2027: Session 3, February 17, 2027: Session 4, March 17, 2027: Session 5, April 21, 2027: Session 6, May 19. 2027: Session 7]
Where do workshops take place?
718 N Washington Ave STE 401, Minneapolis, MN 55401 All workshops are held in person at our North House office on the 4th Floor. Participants will be required to provide their own transportation and parking. Some sessions will be held virtually, in which fellows will be notified in advance. However, fellows should expect all sessions to be in person. The orientation, last session and graduation require in person attendance.
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?
- Orientation: Wednesday, September 16, 2026 - Session 1: Wednesday, October 21, 2026 - Session 2: Wednesday, November 18, 2026 - Session 3: Wednesday, January 20, 2027 - Session 4: Wednesday, February 17, 2027 - Session 5: Wednesday, March 17, 2027 - Session 6: Wednesday, April 21, 2027 - Session 7: Wednesday, May 19, 2026
What is the Deadline to Apply?
Applications for the 2026 cohort are due by May 15, 2026.
How do I apply?
In order to apply, you must submit an application through our application portal. You may resubmit an application, in which the selection committee will review your second application. If you were not selected in previous years, you are encouraged to reapply. The application for 2026 will be later announced.
How many applicants are accepted?
Through a rigorous and competitive process, approximately 18 applicants are accepted each year. Our selection committee (made up of program alumni and community members) seeks to admit a cohort representing the business, nonprofit, and government/public sectors.
What is the mentor/mentee commitment?
- Students must meet with their mentor at least three times during the program year (can be in-person or virtual). - Mentors must have 2+ years of full-time work experience. - Mentors and mentees are required to attend orientation at the start of the program. - Mentors must also attend a mentor training prior to being matched.
How are mentors matched with students?
Matches are based on: - Career interests or major - Personal and leadership goals - 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 CyC welcomes all sectors and professions for mentors and all majors for students. That includes private/business, non profit, and public sector/government 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 15 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 click the link here: https://secure.everyaction.com/-WC3Go0JmEyKJ3uOSX_YrA2 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.