2023 Rising Together, Thriving Together: Unscripted Journeys
Welcome to the 2023 Rising Together, Thriving Together Conference!
Our goal is to use storytelling to highlight the diverse journeys of the immigrant community, foster a sense of community, and equip attendees with new tools, perspectives, and resources to help them navigate their own unscripted journeys. On the day of our conference, you will hear from UCI student presenters, learn about career explorations, learn about first year transitions and graduate school exploration, networking opportunities, and much more!
Check out the conference program below for more information on the workshops happening on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
We hope to see you soon!
Sincerely,
2023 Rising Together, Thriving Together Conference Committee
About the Conference:
The Rising Together, Thriving Together Conference is a unique opportunity for continuing and prospective UCI undocumented students and staff to spend a day together to meet one another, network, and build community within UCI.
Conference at a Glance
- 9:00 am - 9:30 am - Breakfast
- 9:30 am - 10:00 am - Welcome
- 10:00 am - 10:45 am - Keynote Speaker
- 11:00 am - 11:45 am - Session 1 Workshops
- 11:45 am - 12:00 pm - Break
- 12:00 pm - 12:45 pm - Session 2 Workshops
- 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm - Lunch Performances
- 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm - Session 3 Workshops
- 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Closing & Award Ceremony
Help Desk
Need support? Have questions?
Stop by our Help Desk any time during the conference!
Help Desk Hours: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm in the Courtyard
WELCOME & KEYNOTE
9:30 am - 10:00 am
WELCOME | LOCATION: YOSEMITE ROOMS 2070-2090
Join us for a Welcome message from the 2023 Rising Together, Thriving Together Conference Committee.
10:00 am - 10:45 am
KEYNOTE SPEAKER | LOCATION: YOSEMITE ROOMS 2070-2090
Domenica Castillo
Domenica Castillo serves as the executive director at the Museum of Social Justice. Her tenure at the Museum began in 2016 as assistant curator and preparator. In 2020, she became the Museum’s curator leading exhibition research, design, and installation for over a dozen exhibitions centered on social issues, such as immigration, migration, deportation, policing, homelessness, slavery, workers’ rights, and Los Angeles history. In July 2022, Domenica became the executive director of the Museum. She manages the Museum's day-to-day operations, development, and mission while continuing her role as curator in creating exhibitions and programs that tell the stories of the diverse people of Los Angeles. By showcasing the history of social movements from the perspective of marginalized groups, the Museum inspires visitors to engage with social justice principles and advocate for change.
DAY LONG SESSIONS
11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Quiet Room | LOCATION: ROOM 2050
Join our quiet room to help you unwind and destress! Engage in different activities ranging from our relaxation space, meditation space and snacks!
**Creative Room and Quiet Room available throughout the day from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm **
Creative Room | LOCATION: ROOM 3040
Feeling inspired? Join our creative room to express yourself through art! Participate in collage making, enjoy music and much more!
**Creative Room and Quiet Room available throughout the day from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm **
SESSION 1 WORKSHOPS
(select ONE workshop to attend)
11:00 am - 11:45 am
WORKSHOP SESSION 1 - OPTION A: Living with Purpose: Crafting a Personal Mission Statement for Your Life
LOCATION: ROOM 3060
In this workshop, attendees will explore how to define success on their own terms and live a more purposeful life by crafting a personal mission statement. Through guided exercises and discussion, attendees will identify their personal values and priorities, and learn how to align their actions with their vision for their life.
Danae Lee | Personal and Professional Development Coach | Coach4Momentum
Danae's career spans a variety of fields such as nonprofit, education, technology, entertainment, and restaurants. She has coached and mentored individuals ranging in their early teens, college undergrads, people navigating different stages of their career, to professionals who are experts in their craft.
Her work experience, degrees in Sociology, Education & Human Resource Studies, and multiple training and coaching certifications have equipped her with research-based approaches. She anchors her practice in human connection, the growth mindset, and helping people and teams empower themselves.
11:00 am - 11:45 am
WORKSHOP SESSION 1 - OPTION B: From Passion to Profit: UndocuEntrepreneurship 101
LOCATION: ROOM 3070
This workshop is designed to help attendees develop an entrepreneurial mindset. The workshop will cover how to generate income with and without a work permit and provide practical tips and advice to launching your own business.
Genesis Gutierrez | CEO of Harness Magazine
Genesis Gutierrez is a multi-passionate entrepreneur and UCLA alumna with a wealth of experience in marketing and personal branding. As the CEO of Harness Magazine, a digital media company, she has been instrumental in driving the company's success which celebrates and amplifies the voices of women.
Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, Genesis grew up in the US undocumented and spent 4 years in deportation proceedings. She brings a unique perspective and the importance of resilience, determination, and strategic thinking in entrepreneurship. Her work as a coach has helped countless women find the courage and confidence to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals.
11:00 am - 11:45 am
WORKSHOP SESSION 1 - OPTION C: Pathways to UCI: My First Year at UCI
LOCATION: ROOM 3080
In this panel, attendees will hear from current UCI students about their experiences during their first year of college. They will learn about the resources available to them at UCI and strategies for success in college.
Katherine Trujillo | 4th Year Psychology Major and Business Management Minor
Facilitator
Hello everyone, my name is Katherine Trujillo. I am a fourth year at UCI with a major in Psychology and a minor in Business Management. I work as a Student Admin at the DREAM Center, DREAM Scholars Peer Mentor at Student Success Initiatives, and a Co-Facilitator for TeamUp. I love working with student to increase involvement at UCI through workshops, events, and networking. I am looking to purse a career in the field of Industrial and Organizational Psychology and hopefully working for a big company like Nike.
Miriam Olivera | 2nd Year Pharmaceutical Sciences Major
As a first-generation, low-income, and undocumented student navigating the UC system, I had to overcome enough obstacles to get to where I am today. Currently, a second-year pursuing a Pharmaceutical Science degree I have to make sure that being in STEM can set an example to students similar to me that whatever they set their minds to can be achieved even if we have to work twice as hard. I grew up in LA and my favorite thing to do outside of school is exploring Irvine and checking out new places to eat with friends.
Jefferson Herrera | 1st Year International Studies Major
Jeff is a first year International Studies Major at UCI. He was born and raised in Santa Ana, El Salvador. He is currently involved with the DREAM Center as a Community Builder Intern. Outside of the DREAM Center Jeff is also of the SAFIRE ACE program.
Josue Mena | 5th Year Psychology Major
Josue is a first generation college student that transferred from Moorpark Community college. Josue is currently part of the DREAM Center as DPF Coordinator and a board member of the undocumented student led organization SAFIRE. In his time in UCI he also contributed to multiple research projects through a linguistic laboratory on campus. He is looking to pursue a career in cognitive psychology after graduating this spring.
SESSION 2 WORKSHOPS
(select ONE workshop to attend)
12:00 pm - 12:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 2 - OPTION A: From Home to Campus: Navigating College Transitions Together
LOCATION: ROOM 3060
In this session, parents and guardians will gain insights on how to support their student in their college journey. Parents will have an opportunity to connect with other families going through similar experiences and share their own insights and strategies.
En esta sesión, padres y familias obtendrán información sobre cómo apoyar a su estudiante en su camino hacia la universidad. Los padres tendrán la oportunidad de conectarse con otras familias y estudiantes que están pasando por experiencias similares y compartir sus propias ideas y estrategias.
Osvaldo Ruiz Ramirez | 4th Year Neurobiology Major | UCI DREAM Scholars Peer Mentor
Osvaldo is a fourth-year Neurobiology major with a minor in Chicano/Latino Studies. Currently, he's a mentor for DREAM Scholars and enjoys what he does to help out first-years and transfers. As a first-generation undocu-student, he has a passion for health justice and enjoys exposure to the many intersectionalities of health, with an ultimate goal of attending a Physician Associate program.
Jefferson Herrera | 1st Year International Major
Jeff is a first year International Studies Major at UCI. He was born and raised in Santa Ana, El Salvador. He is currently involved with the DREAM Center as a Community Builder Intern. Outside of the DREAM Center Jeff is also of the SAFIRE ACE program.
Yoselin Lopez Tellez | 4th Year Educational Sciences and Sociology Major
Hello, my name is Yoselin Lopez and I am a fourth year student double majoring in educational sciences and sociology. I am a first generation college student born in Mexico. I was raised in Bell Gardens, California and aspire to be a school counselor for undocumented students. The DREAM Center has made a great impact on my college experience, from using all their resources to simply making great friendships and memories. I am happy to be here today supporting my community, and making an impact on parents’ experience through this journey.
12:00 pm - 12:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 2 - OPTION B: Grad School Research Blitz
LOCATION: ROOM 3070
This session will provide a platform for DREAM Center Scholars In Residence to showcase their current research projects. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from graduate students across different fields and learn about the latest research trends and findings.
Joseph Labagnao Ligunas | Ph.D. Student in Comparative Literature | UCI DREAM Center Scholar in Residence
Joseph Labagnao Ligunas is a PhD candidate in Comparative Literature at UCI. Their research looks at the adaptation and narration of Philippine history in various popular forms to interrogate the construction of Philippine identity, nationalism, and culture. They also currently serve as a Co-Lead for the UCI DREAM Center Scholars-in-Residence program, mentoring and helping undergraduate students regarding post-graduate paths and opportunities.
Barbara Martinez Neda | Ph.D. Student in Computer Science | UCI DREAM Center Scholar in Residence
Hi everyone! My name is Barbara Martinez Neda and I'm a fourth-year PhD student in Computer Science at the University of California, Irvine. My research focuses on the exploration and development of machine learning tools to maximize students' opportunities and success at multiple stages of their undergraduate careers. Outside the lab, I'm a Scholar-in-Residence mentor at UC Irvine's DREAM Center, where I support the post-graduation and professional development of students impacted by immigration laws and policies.
Jesus Alexis Lopez Ochoa | Ph.D. Student in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering | UCI DREAM Center Scholar In Residence
Jesus Lopez is a 1st year Ph.D. student in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department, he is also involved at The UCI DREAM Center as a SIR mentor where he hopes to help students develop their professional skills. His research focuses on characterization of surface morphologies and understanding the charging behavior of Pt for the purpose of fuel cell applications.
M. Liliana Ramirez | Ph.D. Candidate in Anthropology | UCI DREAM Center Scholar in Residence
Maria Liliana Ramirez is a current Ph.D. candidate in the department of Anthropology. She has earned her M.A. at UCI in Anthropology and a graduate emphasis in Law Society and Culture. Prior to UCI, M. Liliana completed her undergraduate studies at U.C. Riverside, majoring in anthropology and minoring in Spanish Language and Literature. There she was a Mellon Mays Fellow where she conducted original research on the double coming out experiences of undocumented queer students. This research became the foundation for her first publication as a chapter in the edited volume WE ARE NOT DREAMERS: Undocumented Scholars Theorize Undocumented Life, published by Duke University Press and won the International Latino Book Award for Non-Fiction. Her academic training and personal experiences have shaped her current research interests in art, politics, and undocumented immigration.
Jaaziel de la Luz | Ph.D. Student in Mathematics | UCI DREAM Center Scholar In Residence
I am a first year Math PhD student and an Scholar in Residence at the Dream Center. I come from Veracruz, Mexico and was raised in California, where I attended UCI as an undergrad and CSULB for my master's. My research interest is in dynamical systems and mathematical logic, but I am very concerned and passionate about helping my community and supporting groups or organizations of similar goals. I sincerely enjoy working with students as a TA and providing mentorship through the SIR program at the DREAM Center.
12:00 pm - 12:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 2 - OPTION C: SAFIRE: The Power of Success
LOCATION: ROOM 3080
Systems of oppression have consistently had a hand in constructing widespread and harmful narratives regarding the undocumented community. As undocumented folks, it is important to deconstruct those narratives and formulate our own by recognizing the power and agency we hold both as individuals and as community members. Join current SAFIRE Board Members for a panel and Q&A session on how they’ve used their success to take back their power and use it to deconstruct these narratives.
Alex Farias | 4th Year Sociology Major | SAFIRE Director of Internal Affairs
Facilitator
Alex Farias is a fourth-year student majoring in Sociology. During her time at UC Irvine, she has been a part of the DREAM Project Fellowship, DREAM Scholars, and SAFIRE. She currently serves as SAFIRE's Director of Internal Affairs and through her position she has helped maintain the connections between SAFIRE and its affiliates on campus. In addition, she is one of the DPF Coordinators at the UCI DREAM Center where she provides resources, guidance, and programming for a cohort of over 70 undocumented undergraduate students. After graduation, Alex plans to continue working with students by pursuing a career as an academic counselor.
Fátima Mendoza | 2nd Year Education Sciences Major | SAFIRE Director of Programming
Fátima is a second year Education Sciences student and SAFIRE's current Director of Programming. Previously a SAFIRE mentee or ACER during her first year, she is now responsible for running SAFIRE's mentorship program (The ACE Program) and creating professional development workshops for its mentees. Moreover, Fátima is passionate about increasing student accessibility to resources and empowering undocumented youth. In her spare time, she enjoys going to coffee shops, exploring museums, making Spotify playlists, and hanging out with her three cats.
Sonia Naranjo | 4th Year Psychological Sciences and Education Major | SAFIRE Director of External Affairs
Sonia Naranjo is a first-generation student from San Lorenzo, Michoacan, studying Psychological Sciences and Education. She is passionate about mentorship and giving back to her community. She joined SAFIRE during her junior year as an ACER and now serves as the director of External Affairs for SAFIRE. Through her position, she has worked to bring outside resources to undocumented students at UCI and bring awareness to the Opportunity for All Campaign. After her undergraduate career, she hopes to attend graduate school to become a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and serve children from underserved communities.
Andy Reyes Llamas | 4th Year Psychology and Business Economics Major | SAFIRE Chair & Director of Advocacy
Andy is a first-generation student graduating in Business Economics and Psychology with a minor in history. They are the Chair and Director of Advocacy of SAFIRE. They have been in SAFIRE since their first year, when they first joined as an ACER. They are also currently one of the DPF Coordinators at the DREAM Center.
Vanesa Cruz | 2nd Year Psychology Major | SAFIRE Director of Finances
Vanesa Cruz is a first-generation college student majoring in Psychology as a second-year student. Her hometown is in San Bernardino, CA. Currently she interns at Corona Norco United Way where they support families exposed to domestic violence, poverty, and homelessness, through free, confidential, and non-judgmental programs. A life goal that Vanesa has is to continue serving underprivileged families and students, especially those impacted by immigration laws.
LUNCH WORKSHOPS
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm
Networking Lunch with Graduate School Students | LOCATION: UPPER COURTYARD
You're invited to network with our graduate students in this Networking Lunch. Meet graduate panelists and current graduate students.
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm
Lunch | LOCATION: UPPER COURTYARD
Enjoy music and join us for lunch in the Upper Courtyard.
SESSION 3 WORKSHOPS
(select ONE workshop to attend)
2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 3 - OPTION A: Finding Your Tribe After Graduation - CANCELLED
LOCATION: ROOM 3050
As we navigate adulthood, it's important to have a supportive community around us. In this workshop, we'll explore the benefits of finding and building our tribe, and we'll provide strategies for identifying and nurturing our communities. We'll also discuss how to navigate challenges and conflicts that may arise within our communities.
Andrea Laguna Morales | Special Projects Coordinator | Cypress College Dual Enrollment Program
Andrea Laguna Morales is a first generation transfer college student, graduated with her B.A. from the University of California, Irvine. She currently works as a Special Projects Coordinator with the Dual Enrollment program at Cypress College. Andrea has a background working in both student services and non-profit sectors which has served her passion to educate her community and empower youth leaders. Currently she is navigating and bringing her experince post graduation in finding her tribe through the pandemic and beyond. Join a conversation around idenitfying and nuturing your community.
2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 3 - OPTION B: Undocu Stories: Unheard Voices
LOCATION: ROOM 3060
Join this session to watch a powerful short film showcasing the diverse and unique experiences of undocumented students at UCI. The film will delve into challenges students navigate and how they are breaking barriers to end generational cycles and achieve their full potential.
Following the screening, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with the producers and directors of the film, as well as hear from some of the students who shared their stories.
Pedro Nieves | Filmmaker and Director
Pedro Nieves is a first-gen student majoring in the Arts. Born in Puebla Mexico, he immigrated to the U.S. at 2 years old. After getting involved with the DREAM Center and Underground Scholars Initiative, he’s now passionate about advocating for underrepresented communities by using his photography and video production skills. He looks forward to applying to graduate school to further hone his artistic abilities and create a name for himself in the art world and give back to his communities.
Flor Morales | Co-Director and Producer
Flor Morales is a proud undocumented student who will be graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Her interests in filmmaking led her to join Pedro's passion project as a way of showing agency and self-advocacy. Using a documentary format, they aim to reflect current perceptions of the undocumented experience as a student, hoping to educate others on the matter and showing that we will continue to thrive aside from the many societal and political adversaries.
2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 3 - OPTION C: Intro to Graduate School
LOCATION: ROOM 3070
This panel will provide attendees with an overview of the graduate school application process and tips for success in graduate school. Attendees will learn about the different types of graduate programs available and the application requirements for each.
Joseph Labagnao Ligunas | Ph.D. Student in Comparative Literature | UCI DREAM Center Scholar in Residence
Joseph Labagnao Ligunas is a PhD candidate in Comparative Literature at UCI. Their research looks at the adaptation and narration of Philippine history in various popular forms to interrogate the construction of Philippine identity, nationalism, and culture. They also currently serve as a Co-Lead for the UCI DREAM Center Scholars-in-Residence program, mentoring and helping undergraduate students regarding post-graduate paths and opportunities.
Barbara Martinez Neda | Ph.D. Student in Computer Science | UCI DREAM Center Scholar in Residence
Hi everyone! My name is Barbara Martinez Neda and I'm a fourth-year PhD student in Computer Science at the University of California, Irvine. My research focuses on the exploration and development of machine learning tools to maximize students' opportunities and success at multiple stages of their undergraduate careers. Outside the lab, I'm a Scholar-in-Residence mentor at UC Irvine's DREAM Center, where I support the post-graduation and professional development of students impacted by immigration laws and policies.
Jesus Alexis Lopez Ochoa | Ph.D. Student in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering | UCI DREAM Center Scholar In Residence
Jesus Lopez is a 1st year Ph.D. student in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department, he is also involved at The UCI DREAM Center as a SIR mentor where he hopes to help students develop their professional skills. His research focuses on characterization of surface morphologies and understanding the charging behavior of Pt for the purpose of fuel cell applications.
M. Liliana Ramirez | Ph.D. Candidate in Anthropology | UCI DREAM Center Scholar in Residence
Maria Liliana Ramirez is a current Ph.D. candidate in the department of Anthropology. She has earned her M.A. at UCI in Anthropology and a graduate emphasis in Law Society and Culture. Prior to UCI, M. Liliana completed her undergraduate studies at U.C. Riverside, majoring in anthropology and minoring in Spanish Language and Literature. There she was a Mellon Mays Fellow where she conducted original research on the double coming out experiences of undocumented queer students. This research became the foundation for her first publication as a chapter in the edited volume WE ARE NOT DREAMERS: Undocumented Scholars Theorize Undocumented Life, published by Duke University Press and won the International Latino Book Award for Non-Fiction. Her academic training and personal experiences have shaped her current research interests in art, politics, and undocumented immigration.
Jaaziel de la Luz | Ph.D. Student in Mathematics | UCI DREAM Center Scholar In Residence
I am a first year Math PhD student and an Scholar in Residence at the Dream Center. I come from Veracruz, Mexico and was raised in California, where I attended UCI as an undergrad and CSULB for my master's. My research interest is in dynamical systems and mathematical logic, but I am very concerned and passionate about helping my community and supporting groups or organizations of similar goals. I sincerely enjoy working with students as a TA and providing mentorship through the SIR program at the DREAM Center.
2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
WORKSHOP SESSION 3 - OPTION D: Finding Purpose in Your Professional Journey
LOCATION: ROOM 3080
This panel will focus on providing attendees with insights into different career pathways. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with professionals from a variety of industries. Panelists will share their personal experiences, offer career advice, and answer attendee questions.
Dr. Andres Bustamante | Assistant Professor at the UCI School of Education
Facilitator
Andres Bustamante Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor at the University of California Irvine’s School of Education. He directs the Social, iTerative, Engaged, and Meaningful (STEM) Learning Lab. Andres designs and implements play-based early childhood STEM interventions in places and spaces that children and families spend time (e.g., parks, school yards, grocery stores etc.). He designs these spaces in partnership with local children and families, so they build from and sustain community values and culture, while also maintaining connections to developmental science. He maintains an intentional focus on translating rigorous science from the lab, into meaningful research in the classroom, and the community.
Maria Diaz Gonzalez | Administrative Assistant | UCI School of Education Early Academic Outreach Program
Maria Diaz Gonzalez is a first-generation UCI Alumn with a bachelor’s degree in Education Sciences and a minor in Sociology. She is originally from Mexico but immigrated to the U.S. at six years old and was raised in Los Angeles, California. She continues her journey at UCI as an Administrative Assistant for the Early Academic Outreach Program at UCI School of Education. She looks forward to applying for her master’s in business administration this Fall 2023. In the future, she hopes to go to law school and be an advocate for her undocumented community.
Brenda Heredia | Owner of Quherencia
Brenda Heredia is a fully undocumented woman living near Los Angeles. Brenda was born in Mexico City and came to the United States in 2014 when she was 15. She graduated from CSUF in 2022 with two B.A.s, one in Business Marketing, one in Spanish, and a Translation Certificate. Brenda has her own business, Quherencia, where she sells candles and beaded jewelry. She also works at the 562Flea, where she plans events and supports other small businesses. Brenda has been interviewed by VoyageLA and Fierce by Mitú, and you can find her candles at Plantiitas Market in Long Beach.
CLOSING
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Awards and Recognition | LOCATION: YOSEMITE ROOMS 2070-2090
It's time to celebrate and party!
In this closing session, we would like to honor those who made powerful impact on this community. Join this session for our awards ceremony.
