Introducing the 2026–27 Levante Leadership Institute (LLI) Youth Cohort! 🌱 We’re shining a spotlight on our incredible youth leaders this year. Get to know the stories behind our scholars, their North Carolina roots, and what makes each of them unique: 🌟 Meet Melissa, a senior from Sampson County with Mexican roots! 🇲🇽 A future linguistics and chemistry major who is passionate about learning new languages, currently studying Italian. Hoping to raise awareness about the challenges farmworkers face. 🌟 Meet Jacqueline, a senior from Sampson County with Mexican roots and a proud fourth-year Levante Scholar! 🇲🇽 She is passionate about advocating for farmworker rights and enjoys volleyball, spending time with her siblings, and exploring her artistic side. 🌟 Meet Angel, a high school senior from Duplin County with Honduran roots! 🇭🇳He enjoys reading, soccer, jiu-jitsu, and video games, and hopes to pursue a career in medicine. 🌟 Meet Miranda, a high school junior from Johnston County with roots in Mexico and Texas! 🇲🇽 As a returning Levante Scholar, she hopes to build confidence, find her voice, and create change for families like hers while growing as a leader in her community! 🌟 Meet Ivan, a high school junior from Wayne County with Guatemalan roots! 🇬🇹 He enjoys playing soccer and is eager to learn more about agriculture and its impact on society during his second year in Levante! 🌟 Meet Jared, a high school freshman from Sampson County with Mexican roots! 🇲🇽 He enjoys playing soccer and spending time talking with his brother. He hopes to give back to his community and make a positive impact, with plans to pursue a career as a dental hygienist! 🌟 Meet Angelo, a high school junior from Sampson County with Mexican roots! 🇲🇽 He enjoys playing soccer and working out at home, and hopes to make the most of Levante's activities and opportunities to help prepare him for college! 🌟 Meet Iván, a junior at an early college with Mexican roots who is working toward his Associate in Science! 🇲🇽 A soccer midfielder, he hopes to strengthen his leadership skills and gain confidence speaking up about global issues through Levante.