Emilia is responsible for the overall planning, organizing of all aspects of the HOLAS organization. Being from Brazilian and Portuguese decent, Emilia was immersed in rich cultural values and traditions. Currently, she is in her second year studying Law, with minors in Sociology and Political Science. Interested in politics and policy Emilia joined HOLAS to contribute and learn more about creating social awareness about Latino culture, can lead to humanitarian action.  

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“I came to Canada at a very young age but luckily I was immersed into my Brazilian culture and have been blessed to visit my country and family throughout my adolescence. HOLAS to me is a way to diversify my knowledge of the different Latino countries. HOLAS presents the opportunity for everyone to connect with one another and feel as if they have a home away from home. Where all can be free to express, create and contribute to the growth of humanitarian aid in Latin America and the Caribbean. Welcome to the HOLAS family!”

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Alexa is responsible for carrying out strategic plans through overseeing operations, developing functional roles, and assigning responsibilities to committee members. She is in her second year, studying Global and International studies with a concentration in Latin America and the Caribbean at Carleton University. Alexa grew up in La Romana, Dominican Republic, however was born in Toronto, Ontario. She loves spending time with family, travelling, going to the gym and exploring new places. She also enjoys learning about history, culture and current issues  as she has a strong passion for advocacy and humanitarian work. 

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"I moved back to Canada two years ago and wanted to remain connected to my culture which is why I joined groups like HOLAS to not only remain connected to my roots but to also learn about my neighbouring Latin countries. I was drawn to joining HOLAS in my first year, and I was welcomed with open arms and have met many people since. The advocacy that this club does is so important, and my passion for helping the Latin American community is easily translated with the work we do in the community and abroad. I love the inclusive and positive atmosphere within this group- no matter where you come from, what languages you speak, or what your story is, HOLAS welcomes you like a family!”

Keana is responsible for carrying out strategic plans and organization through overseeing internal operations, and ensuring that communication within the team is smooth.  She is in her fourth year, studying Law with a concentration in Government and Policy at Carleton University. Keana grew up in Brampton, Ontario, and is of Peruvian and Salvadoran heritage. She loves playing sports - anything from soccer, running, swimming, surfing and rowing. She also enjoys learning about history, politics and nature, and has a strong passion for advocacy and community work. 

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"I've lived in Canada my whole life, so I try my best to immerse myself in cultural activities and groups like HOLAS to learn and become more connected to by Latin roots. My mother was involved in HOLAS at her university and started it at her work, and this inspired me to do the same at my high school. Naturally, I was drawn to joining HOLAS in my first year, and I was welcomed with open arms. The advocacy that this club does is so important, and my passion for helping the community is easily translated with the work we do in the community and abroad. I love the inclusive and positive atmosphere fostered within this group- no matter where you come from, what languages you speak, or what your story is, HOLAS welcomes you like a family!”

Adriana is responsible for setting up and maintaining relationships with partners and sponsors that contribute to greater student interaction with Latin American organizations and HOLAS. Adriana is in her fourth year of Aerospace Engineering with a specialization in Space Systems design. Although being born in Canada, Adriana is of Salvadoran and German descent. Adriana joined HOLAS to learn more about the Latin American culture and communities as well as provide humanitarian aid to the individuals in need, who are part of these communities.

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“I came across HOLAS by looking for ways through Carleton to learn more about my heritage, as well as engage and interact with those who are as passionate about sharing and learning about Latin American culture. HOLAS has given me the opportunity to aid in taking humanitarian initiatives towards Latin America as well as make new friends while sharing these experiences.”
 

Javiera is responsible for managing HOLAS financing. She is currently in her second year of Forensic Psychology. Javiera was born and raised in Chile,

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Cecil is responsible for creating campaigns and managing H.O.L.A.S.'s marketing. Working closely with the media execs. Cecil is an international student majoring in Economics. Cecil loves to play sports especially basketball and soccer. You can always find him listening to the best afro-beats music and during his downtime watching movies. 

“I’ve lived in Ghana most of my life and moving to Ottawa was a big change for me. Hearing about HOLAS and it’s effects on the Hispanic community in Ottawa was something I that caught my attention because I love giving back to the community and joining HOLAS allowed me to learn more about the Hispanic community which I barely had knowledge about. This has allowed me to learn new cultures, food and dancing which I love while also giving back to the global community.”

Veronica is responsible for creating graphics for H.O.L.A.S. social media and interacting with our community online. She is in charge of our Instagram and Facebook pages. She is completing the fourth year of her Journalism major with a focus on sports journalism. Veronica loves everything to do with sports and fitness, being active is one of her favourite past times along side discovering and exploring new places. She has also developed (pun intended) a passion for photography and a love for film, both editing and watching them. 

“I have lived in Canada for over half of my life, and through this my family has made friendships with others that share our Brazilian culture. But when I moved to Ottawa I felt removed from my Latin roots, which makes HOLAS the perfect place for me. The past year changed how we all interacted with clubs, and many Carleton Clubs have not been able to work at their full potential, my goal is to help restart this amazing organization that helps so many people who feel separated from their culture like I did, find a home in HOLAS. Although we can't all meet in person just yet, I will work hard to integrate the community and bring awareness to Latin American issues and culture through our socials.”

Megan is responsible for creating graphics for H.O.L.A.S. social media and interacting with our community online. She is in charge of managing our Instagram and social media platforms. She is currently in her second year of Global and International studies with a specialization in Economics. Originally, from Calgary, Alberta and attended public school in a Spanish Bilingual program. 

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"My friend Alexa, who is now the Vice President of this organization, introduced me to HOLAS in the first semester of my first year. I began working with Veronica, on of the current executives of media affairs, and thoroughly enjoyed the work for the team. Now as an executive myself, I am excited to extend my work for HOLAS. Since I have been taking courses from kindergarten from native Spanish speakers who immigrated to Canada and were very passionate about sharing their pieces of Hispanic culture. I feel privileged to continue to participate and learn from the Latin culture as well as sharing it with others through HOLAS" 

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Ema is responsible for proposing and leading events/initiatives that showcase Latin American culture and bringing awareness to prevalent humanitarian issues. In the fall she will begin her third year in a Bachelor in Commerce, with a concentration in Management. While she was born in Chile, Ema grew up in the US and Uruguay. During her free time, she enjoys taking up new crocheting and sewing projects. Ema joined HOLAS because she is passionate about learning about different cultures and has a great interest in providing humanitarian aid and raising awareness on issues in Latin America and the Caribbean.

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“The warm welcome I received from HOLAS at the international student's orientation calmed some nerves about moving to a new country. Throughout high school, I always enjoyed participating and leading fundraising events that supported local communities in Uruguay. Being a part of HOLAS allows me to continue this by raising awareness on Latin American and Caribbean issues as well as providing humanitarian support and aid.”

Irina is responsible for managing deadlines and ensuring that all executives are aware of the meetings and evens coming up. She is also in charge of the coordinating and execution of different activities at HOLAS.  Irina is from Ecuador, she is in her third year studying Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience and Mental Health. Irina likes music, metal health, tv shows, social issues. 

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"I enjoy sharing Latin culture and would love to help in creating a sense of community for students!"

Maria is in charge of welcoming new members, volunteers and other contributors to HOLAS and its events. Additionally, she is responsible for keeping members engaged in the Latin American community both locally and globally. She is currently in her third-year pursuing a degree in Politcal Science with a concentration in International Relations. She was born and raised in Maracaibo, Venezuela and moved to Canada back in 2016. As a Latina I have always been passionate about Latin American culture, poetry and beauty. 

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“ Since the first time I knew HOLAS, I felt inclined to their values and mission as an organization that helps Latin American countries. I have always been aware of the issues and challenges Latino America faces both socially and politically and HOLAS has been a student organization that serve as a venue to raise awareness of these issues and foster a sense of community for Latinos leaving in the diaspora. I am honoured to be party and contribute to the work HOLAS does”