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About

The El Camino Leadership Program is a comprehensive training initiative designed to empower emerging Latino leaders in Napa County to take active roles including boards, commissions, and decision-making bodies. Through interactive workshops, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on civic engagement training, participants gain the skills, confidence, and professional network needed to effectively serve their community.

This program addresses the critical under-representation of Latinos in local leadership by providing the tools and support necessary to navigate appointment processes, understand governance structures, organizational leadership, and advocate for their community's interests at the highest levels.

Read Our Impact Report
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hear From Past Participants

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Esmeralda Gil

"What made the El Camino experience so meaningful wasn't just the incredible mentors, the honest conversations, and the encouragement I received from my compañeras, but the space created to slow down and reflect on our own leadership. I left that weekend feeling grounded, more confident in the kind of leader I want to continue becoming, and with a toolkit of skills and perspectives that I carry with me every day. Shortly after the program, I was appointed permanent Executive Director of Puertas Abiertas. El Camino didn't make me a leader, it reminded me to trust the leader I already was."

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Erika Velazquez

“The El Camino program was a meaningful experience that strengthened my confidence, leadership skills, and sense of purpose. As a program for future Latino leaders, it provided valuable mentorship, inspiring connections, and guidance that helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside such talented individuals and would highly recommend El Camino to anyone looking to develop as a leader and make a positive impact in their community.”

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Lupe
Reyes

“I walked away from this workshop inspired, equipped, and connected to a comunidad of passionate professionals. Inspired to leverage collaboration with peers to bring further positive impact to our Latino community. Equipped with tools to offer solutions and strategies to our everyday work. Connected with our own life purpose and to a network of professionals working towards shared solutions.”

Program Facilitator

Juan Lopez and Amistad Associates bring 38+ years of leadership expertise to El Camino. They designed Johnson & Johnson's multicultural leadership program and guided dozens of California organizations in governance. Juan from Amistad Associates is a UC Berkeley graduate and Diversity Pioneer. Juan specializes in developing leadership competencies and creating pathways for underrepresented professionals.

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Apply to our program

Join a community of Latino professionals building the skills, confidence, and networks to lead across Napa Valley, inclduing on boards and commissions. El Camino provides the training and mentorship you need to step into leadership roles that shape our community's future.

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