By Elisa Garcia
Who needs superhuman strength when you can have Chica Power? That’s right, Chica Power, the ability to carry strength, confidence and the responsibility to uplift one’s community.
This week 25 chicas became entrepreneurs and pitched their business idea to a panel of ‘sharks’ at the end of Latinitas Power Chica Camp, which is the third week of virtual summer camp where the chicas learned about activism and community leadership.
Throughout the week, the girls were tasked with creating a business that tackled a community problem such as health, housing and education.
Andrea Morales, program leader and co-creator of the curriculum for the week, led lessons surrounding civic activism, technology and financial literacy. All of which helped the chicas create presentations at the end of the week, where they pitched their business idea to their family and friends and Latinitas staff as well.
“I believe that every student we meet has the power to change the world,” Morales said. “I want these girls to know they can do anything, and give them the support and guidance that they need to kickstart whatever projects and ideas they may have.”
For Kirsty Brewster, Morales’ co-instructor for the week, said she was most excited to see how the chicas react to the curriculum.
“I want them to come away from it feeling empowered, even at their age that can create a way to start change,’ she said. “Plenty of kids create their own small business. I just want them to start thinking about helping other people.”
All week long the chicas worked towards some inspiring business ideas such as virtual reality classrooms and real estate tours, 3D printers to print school supplies and underground walkways and bus routes to get around a busy city.
“Last year me and my family went to Canada and because it’s so cold there they have underground tunnels for people to walk,” Celeste said, a camp participant. “I’ve also been to New York City and Washington D.C. and saw they had subways so why not build something underground.”
After pitching their ideas to guest judge Michelle Hererra, a financial coach with RBFCU, there were two groups who stood out the most: AIA Virtual Education and 3D-EPS. Both groups aimed their product towards education for students who don’t have access to the internet and proper school supplies.
“With the school situation right now, I see how blessed my family is with the technology we have,” Hererra said. “Then there’s kids who don’t have access to technology and wi-fi, I think these are ideas that could really be offered to students who need it. That would change the world.”
To see the winners for each category, check out the recap video!
