MANA De North County San Diego

The national organization MANA was founded in 1974; MANA is represented in 21 cities around the U.S. MANA de North County San Diego was founded in 2009 by Co-Founder Gabriela Hooshmand. MANA’s signature program is the Hermanitas Mentoring Program for Latina Teens.  Our chapter has been awarded "Hermanitas Program of the Year" in 2017 and 2021 by MANA National for the quality of our curriculum and going out of our way to stay connected with our mentees during the pandemic. 

What we teach: 

• Building confidence (using the book Confidence Code for Girls) and learning self-advocacy
• Overcoming obstacles in life in order to succeed
• Planning for college and a career, including financial aid
• Setting and achieving personal, academic, and career goals
• Leadership development, including studying Latina role models & practicing public speaking skills
• Health, nutrition, and fitness (including diabetes prevention)
• Prevention education (drugs, alcohol, vaping, sexual diseases, internet safety)
• Positive body image, skin care and natural beauty 
• Cultural appreciation and celebration

Our goal is to adopt healthy living strategies, promote educational achievement, and support personal growth. Our mentors and members create positive changes in the lives of our Hermanitas. Mentors can promote healthier habits, from eating habits to college prep. Hermanitas learn how to plan for the future and for their successes. Changes in attitude, outlook, and feelings of confidence are common outcomes of our programs. We cultivate safe spaces for our Hermanitas to express themselves. We work to inspire other Latinas to join by sharing life experiences and guide students' future successes.  Our mentees can receive a college scholarship upon graduation and most do.