The Latinx Youth Leadership Conference is an annual event that celebrates Latinx culture and helps Latinx middle and high school students learn to share peace through leadership.  The primary goal of this event is to promote youth development, leadership, and positive cultural identity while enabling teens to see their role as peacemakers and learn individual actions to share with their families, schools, and neighborhoods. Participating youth have the opportunity to meet students from other schools while learning and having fun in cultural workshops, presentations and activities relevant to their lives. What makes this a one-of-a-kind event is that it is planned by and for Latinx youth; a team of high school students meet weekly for 8 months to plan and develop all conference elements.

Please contact Franklin Zumba at franklinz@oportunidad.org or Eloisa Echavez at eloisae@oportunidad.org or by calling 612-872-6165 if you would like more information about the event.

2025 Conference

Our 2025 Latinx Youth Leadership Conference, held on May 16th, at Metropolitan State University, was a resounding success, bringing together 240 students and 35 educators from across Minnesota. This year’s theme, “Mentes Valientes, Futuros Sin Límites” (Brave Minds, Limitless Futures), was chosen by the Latinx Youth Committee, who dedicated months of planning to create an empowering experience. The theme highlighted the resilience, creativity, and limitless potential of Latinx youth, encouraging them to overcome self-doubt and societal barriers.

The conference featured two captivating performances that celebrated Latinx culture: Lincoln International High School Dance Group – After three months of preparation, this talented group represented all Latin American countries through vibrant dance, energizing the audience and fostering a sense of unity and pride. Colombia Live – For the second time in conference history, this Colombia-based group performed traditional dances and rhythms from Colombia’s Pacific and Caribbean regions. They shared the cultural significance of their movements, deepening the audience’s appreciation for Latinx heritage in the U.S. Both performances left a lasting impact, enhancing the event’s celebratory and inspirational atmosphere.

Attendees participated in 10 dynamic workshops led by Latino professionals covering critical topics such as: Healthy Relationships, Immigration & Advocacy, Media Literacy & Misinformation. Additionally, a special workshop for educators, “Knowing Your Rights,” provided essential tools to support students and communities facing immigration challenges. The workshops fostered learning, dialogue, and skill-building, empowering students and educators alike.

The success of the conference was made possible by the generous support of our sponsors: Metropolitan State University (venue & resources), McDonald’s Owners & Operators, Mall of America, and Exchange Club of East Minneapolis. Their contributions ensured a seamless and impactful experience for all attendees. This Latinx Youth Conference was a powerful celebration of courage, culture, and community. Through inspiring performances, enriching workshops, and meaningful connections, the event reinforced the message that Latinx youth possess the strength to shape limitless futures.

A special thank you to our Latinx Youth Committee, whose dedication and hard work—from October 2024 to May 2025—made this event possible. Their commitment ensured an unforgettable experience that will continue to inspire attendees long after the conference. We look forward to next year’s gathering as we continue uplifting and empowering Latinx youth across Minnesota!

Past conference topics have included:

2024: “Más Allá de la Frontera: Unidos Por Nuestra Herencia Latina” (Beyond the Border: United by Our Latinx Heritage)
2023: Sin Años de Soledad (How to Deal with Loneliness and live Happily/mental health)
2022: Adelante Seguimos (Together We Move Forward)
2021: Community Healing & Resiliency
2020: (The conference had to be cancelled due to the pandemic)
2019: Justicia y Sostenibilidad Ambiental (Environmental Justice & Sustainability)
2018: Cuídame, Cuídate (Let’s Take Care of Each Other)
2017: El Pueblo Unido (The People United) – Theme: Social Action/Activism
2016: De Donde Vengo y Adonde Voy (Where I’m From and Where I’m Going)
2015: Express Your Identity
2014: Cultivating My Well-Being
2013: Traditions in Our Hearts, United We Thrive
2012: Growing Healthy Relationships Together
2011: Dancing with the “Sole”, Bailando con El Corazón
2010: Mind Opening Scenes: Artes Visuales
2008: Who am I? Finding Myself to Promote Peace
2007: Our History and Traditions: The Key to the Future
2006: Hip Hop: A Tool for Peace and Social Change
2005: Healthy Lifestyles
2004: An Intergenerational Dialog on Immigration