Hermanitas Program
Our Hermanitas Program Story
MANA de San Diego’s nationally recognized Hermanitas Program empowers Latina middle and high school students to dream bigger, achieve higher, and lead with confidence. Through mentorship, education, and community engagement, our Hermanitas Program provides students with the support, guidance, and opportunities they need to pursue higher education and enter the professional workforce as future Latina leaders ready to drive positive change.
At the heart of the program is our one-to-one Hermanitas mentorship model, where each student is paired with a dedicated mentor—a successful and empowered Latina who has walked a similar path, faced similar challenges, and is now committed to guiding the next generation. (Learn more about becoming a mentor by clicking here.)
Since its launch in 1987, Hermanitas has supported over 600 local Latina students, ages 12 to 18. The program offers a dynamic curriculum featuring monthly educational seminars, community service projects, and career exploration opportunities. Participants are also enrolled in Girl Scouts of America, earning multiple badges as part of their leadership development.
Our Hermanitas Program is intended to serve Latina first-generation and/or low-income students. Eligibility for this program will be determined by both first-generation status and family income.
Please email manasd@manasd.org for more information.
Our applications for the 2026 – 2027 academic year are now closed.
We are currently accepting applications for rising 7th – 9th graders.
Applications are due by Friday, August 7, 2026 at 11:59PM (PST).
More About Hermanitas
Help us help Latinas achieve success
Together, through our mentorship programs, scholarships and leadership events, we can make a positive difference in the Latino community.