2024 Latina Empowerment Conference returns to Bakersfield, fosters changemakers in the community

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Whether it was by hug, or simply with conversation, connections were made at the annual Latina Empowerment Conference hosted by the non-profit Hispanas Organized for Political Equality or HOPE at Bakersfield College Friday.

More than 120 Latinas from throughout Bakersfield gained information about different issues including finances, home ownership, and mental health when working in leadership positions. Those are tools they can use to influence others and make a difference where they live.

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“I think it’s very important to have the women that are here and then they get to come together, meet new Latinas, and just work together and create change in their communities,” said HOPE’s Director of Community Engagement Belinda Barragan.

According to the most recent census, 52.9% of Bakersfield’s population is Latino. Bakersfield College’s Norma Rojas-Mora said it is an even larger percentage at the school.

“Seventy percent of our students are Latino, so to be able to provide resources to the community and our students is important,” said Rojas-Mora.

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It’s why Rojas-Mora said it is powerful to have an annual event that is focused on fostering changemakers in the local Latina community.

“To be in a room of women that are like-minded and that are wanting to learn and see how they can take themselves to the next level is always something that you walk away with a high energy and enthusiasm to get out there and continue to do the good work,” said Rojas-Mora.

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