In 2020, Louisa and Alessandra launched the Mestiza Heirloom Project as a way to empower communities of women who are leaving a legacy. This past February, we met with high school seniors at Hawthorn Leadership School for Girls in St. Louis to gift them each a Mestiza piece to empower them on the next step of their journey. Today, we're sharing what each student plans to do after graduation. Read more below!

Nyara D.: "I am very proud to be a graduate of Hawthorn Leadership School for Girls. Right now, my plan after Hawthorn is to attend St. Louis Community College. I would like to attend law school after undergraduate school."

Nila D.: "I am proud to share that I have been accepted by a few colleges! After Hawthorn, I plan to enjoy the summer. I will decide where I would like to attend and what to study during my vacation."

Sarah F.: "After graduating from Hawthorn Leadership School, I will be attending University of Columbia. My goal and hope is to major in Psychology. I'm excited!"

Ariauna J.: "I am happy to share that I have been accepted into the Tiger Program at the University of Missouri, Columbia. As for what I will study, I am still undecided but, excited to discover what I am interested in through general courses and meeting new people."

Bonita S.: "Now that I am a graduate of Hawthorn Leadership School for Girls, I will be starting as a certified nursing assistant. My hopes are to eventually become a registered nurse. Helping community is something that is important to me."

Elaysia R.: "Now that I am a graduate of Hawthorn Leadership School, I will be enjoying the summer break, and taking some time to work. I also will be thinking and deciding what I'd would like to do next."