The Central Valley is home to about 900,000 migrants and their families, whose labor helps keep the region running.
For some, stepping into public leadership can still feel far away.
Sol Rivas knows that feeling.
A Merced County resident and alumnus of New American Leaders’ Ready to Lead program, Rivas said self-doubt has made her question whether she belongs in rooms where public decisions are made.
“I can relate to individuals who have never imagined themselves as civic or political leaders,” she said. “Leadership can feel intimidating, especially when you don’t see many people who look like you or share your experiences in those roles.”
Rivas is helping recruit Central Valley residents interested in public office for the program aimed at migrants, refugees and their children.
The three-day training set for Sept. 11-13 is open to Central Valley residents 18 and older. No previous political or organizing experience is required.
Jessica Delos Reyes, director of communications for New American Leaders, said the Central Valley is a critical area for the organization’s work.
“The region is one of the world’s most productive agricultural areas, heavily reliant on immigrant labor,” she said. “Despite their contributions, immigrants in California face significant underrepresentation.”
Expanding their pipeline to the Central Valley, Delos Reyes said, aims to empower migrant communities and ensure their voices are heard.
“Participants learn how to use their personal stories and immigrant experiences to explain their values, speak to voters, build a stump speech, fundraise and respond to hostile media,” she said. “The training also includes a panel with local elected officials who can talk about what it is like to run for office.”
For Rivas, the need for more pathways into leadership in Merced County is evident.
“I see a population that is incredibly diverse, including many immigrant, first-generation, and working-class families,” she said. “Yet our local leadership does not always reflect those demographics. When I look at our Board of Supervisors, I see opportunities for greater representation, including more women and individuals with immigrant backgrounds.”
Several barriers can keep people from stepping forward, Rivas said. She listed family responsibilities, financial constraints, a lack of political networks, and uncertainty about how government works as factors that can make leadership feel out of reach.
“That is what makes programs like New American Leaders so important,” she said. “They help people recognize that their lived experiences and community connections are valuable leadership traits.”
In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Rivas attended the training.
“One of the things that stood out most was being in a space with people who shared similar lived experiences,” she said. “It helped me envision whether running for office was something I wanted to pursue or to think about when the right time might be.”
The training, she said, helps participants network, gain new skills and practical knowledge, and explore pathways to civic engagement.
“They will hear directly from elected officials and community leaders who have had similar journeys and can share lessons learned,” Rivas said. “They leave with a network of peers, mentors, and supporters who understand their experiences and are committed to helping one another succeed.
The program is not limited to people who already see themselves as future candidates.
Rivas said it could also appeal to people who want to serve on boards or commissions, organize in their communities, advocate for policy changes, or simply become more involved.
“You do not need to have all the answers or know exactly what your next step will be,” she said. “If you care deeply about your community and want to make a difference through civic engagement, public service, advocacy, or leadership, this program is designed to help you grow and connect with others who share that.”
Looking five years ahead, Rivas said success would mean seeing more immigrants, refugees and first- and second-generation Americans serving on boards, commissions, advisory groups and in elected office.
“Change doesn’t happen overnight,” Rivas said. “But it starts when ordinary people decide to take a step forward and recognize that their voice matters.”
The priority application deadline is July 27, and the final deadline is Aug. 17.
Accepted participants pay a $150 registration fee. The organization offers limited scholarships for people who face barriers tied to registration, travel or lodging.