17 Years of LEAD

The LEAD Conference began in 2007 when Bianca Caban (Harvard Class of 2009) gathered a team of committed leaders within Harvard's Latina community and organized a conference dedicated to facilitating the entrance of young Latinas into the professional world and beyond. 

The first Latina Empowerment & Development Conference took place on December 8th, 2007 and brought together speakers and a community of Latinas with a shared vision of inclusive excellence that spanned many generations, professions, and interests.

LEAD passionately believes that femme-presenting Latines hold a wealth of untapped potential and skills that can benefit society at large. Progress has been made to diversify opportunities for and capitalize on the strengths of minorities. Still, the fact remains that minority womxn, especially femme-presenting Latines, are underrepresented in all leadership positions across all fields. For this reason, the Latina Empowerment and Development Conference is a crucial event for promoting development, expanding one's professional network, introducing mentoring opportunities, and inspiring womxn to reaffirm their commitment to their futures and goals.

LEAD of Harvard College is committed to creating an environment that promotes Latine leadership and empowerment. LEAD connects accomplished Latines, while continuously contributing to an increasingly diverse and talented workplace.