Jorge Topete has significantly impacted the Latinx community at Salt Lake Community College through his work at the Dream Center. He provides essential resources and guidance to students, helping them navigate their educational paths and ensuring they have the tools they need for academic success.

Driven by his own experience as an undocumented student, Jorge feels a deep commitment to giving back to his community. He understands the opportunities he has received and strives to support others, especially those who may face similar challenges. His work at the Dream Center reflects this dedication, offering vital resources and support to help students succeed.

Jorge encourages students who wish to support and advocate for the Latinx community to actively engage in events, build meaningful connections, and help where needed. He underscores the importance of immersing oneself in the community and enjoying the process of connecting with others.

“Latinx Heritage Month is a time to celebrate traditions, history and come together to grow as a community.”

During his time as a student at SLCC, Agustin significantly contributed to the Latinx community through his work with the TRIO STEM program. He actively recruited students and introduced them to the various resources available at the college. Additionally, Agustin participated in the Bruin Brains program, which helps students prepare for university transfer by guiding them in developing a project or showcase based on their interests and research. This program aids students in clarifying their next steps in their academic journey.

Agustin’s dedication to supporting the Latinx community is deeply rooted in his personal experiences and a desire to help others facing similar challenges. He feels a strong connection to the community, guided by the principle that “We are part of the community, but the community is part of us.” His motivation comes from a commitment to use his own experiences to assist others in navigating college and achieving success.

For students looking to become more involved in supporting and advocating for the Latinx community, Agustin recommends starting with self-awareness. Understanding one's own background and heritage, combined with a genuine effort to engage with and learn about the community, is crucial for making a meaningful impact.

“Latinx Heritage Month allows us to connect with our roots and our community.”

Carolina has been involved in numerous events that have made a significant impact on the Latinx community. Notable among these are the "Mother Tongue Event" organized by Rosa Maqueda Vicente and Miguel Ángel Oxlaj Cúmez, which emphasized the significance of one's mother tongue in personal identity, and "Unsilenced: A Personal Journey Toward Social Justice for Indigenous People" by Estercilia Simanca Pushaina. In this event, she discussed indigenous rights and her accomplishments, including her work with the WAYUU community in Colombia. This event was impactful not only for the Latinx community but also for the SLCC community at large, as it featured translations between Spanish and English and resonated deeply with the WAYUU community.

Carolina emphasizes that her work is driven by genuine commitment rather than the pursuit of recognition. Having arrived in the USA as an immigrant without her family, she came to appreciate the importance of community involvement. She believes that a community thrives when its members actively contribute and support one another.

According to Carolina, it is essential to understand our strengths and use them to make meaningful contributions. She encourages everyone to reflect on how they can contribute to their community and act, accordingly, focusing on what they can offer rather than seeking personal gain.

“(Latinx Heritage Celebration) is a great opportunity to celebrate and learn about the diversity and culture of our Latinx Heritages.”