a little about me

The Story of ALA CAMILA

While growing up, I never pictured myself owning my own business, ever. ALA CAMILA was born naturally after a decade of engaging in youth mentorship, teaching, organizing and creative writing.

In the summer of 2016, I was blessed with the role of Peer Learning Facilitator for UCLA’s Transfer Summer Program, a summer bridge for first gen, low income and/or students of color entering the university. I was essentially a TA for an upper division writing course that explored the central themes of self-exploration and identity through an ethnic studies lens. I spent my days, morning to night, sitting 1-1 with students helping them understand the curriculum and craft their lengthy, personal writing assignments.

I kept thinking to myself: “Wait a minute, I GET to sit with students of color for HOURS on end guiding them through their own stories while getting PAID?! Is this real?!”

When I tell you that I was overjoyed to do this work, I mean it.

Of course, the long days were tiring, but I always went to sleep with a sense of fulfillment in my spirit from experiencing the profound depth of the stories I got to bear witness to. I observed different forms of magic and wisdom from each student including moments of vulnerability, care, community, trauma, courage, and gentle progress. And, according to the students, I was naturally attuned to their needs and supported them in successfully surviving their first quarter of upper division college writing.

From that summer on, I started to slowly envision a way for me to combine the best of me, with what I enjoy most in the world: people and their stories.

Creative self expression + self reflection + storytelling + being a guide + witnessing people + provoking growth = my own personal heaven.

And here we are.