Blog
Meet our Fall 2026 Interns: Part 1
Latinas Represent is proud to partner with California State University, Bakersfield to welcome a cohort of student interns this fall. Through this partnership, students gain hands-on experience supporting our work to advance Latina leadership in public service through research, communications, community engagement, and leadership development.
We are grateful to CSU Bakersfield for helping create opportunities for emerging leaders to explore public service, build practical skills, and connect their lived experiences to the work of strengthening representation in their communities.
Itxel Ruiz
Political Science major and Criminal Justice minor, CSU Bakersfield
“Having leaders who share similar experiences and backgrounds can help give our community a stronger voice.”
I was drawn to Latinas Represent and this internship because, in all my years at CSUB, I have not had an opportunity like this. As a Latina woman myself, I am excited to be part of a project that highlights the growing presence of Latina women in politics.
Latina representation in politics matters to me because the Latinx community is often underrepresented in government. Having leaders who share similar experiences and backgrounds can help give our community a stronger voice and ensure our concerns are recognized when important decisions are being made.
One Latina leader who inspires me is Sonia Sotomayor because she overcame many obstacles and became the first Latina Supreme Court Justice. Her hard work shows me that perseverance can break barriers and create opportunities.
Fun fact: I love trinkets and have even started my own collection.
Damara Manjarrez
Political Science and History, CSU Bakersfield
“Representation is how we make our voices heard and our issues seen.”
I was drawn to Latinas Represent because of its mission to make Latina voices heard in public service by increasing Latina representation in public office.
As a Latina myself, I believe representation is how we make our voices heard and our issues seen. Our communities face so many challenges, so it is up to us to get into the spaces where we can create change.
A Latina leader who inspires me deeply is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Her 2019 political campaign inspired me to pursue politics because of her mission and, honestly, because of how powerful it felt to see a Latina be fierce, unapologetic, and win.
Fun fact: I love sitting down with a Disney landscape puzzle while watching movies in the background. I call it my “old lady hobby.”
Matthew Ante
Political Science, CSU Bakersfield
“The government should reflect the diverse communities it serves.”
I was drawn to Latinas Represent because of its work to increase Latina representation in politics. As a Political Science major interested in law and public service, I see this internship as an opportunity to learn and gain meaningful experience.
Latina representation matters to me because government should reflect the diverse communities it serves. Seeing Latinas in leadership can also inspire younger generations to become involved in politics and public service.
I am inspired by Monica Ramirez because she uses her voice to advocate for migrant women and workers who are often overlooked or afraid to speak up. Her work reminds me why I want to become an employment lawyer: to help people understand their rights and feel empowered to stand up for themselves.
Fun fact: I am an adventure seeker who enjoys exploring new experiences and embracing challenges. Whether I am hiking, riding motorcycles, enjoying roller coasters, or jet skiing, I am always looking for opportunities to step outside my comfort zone, try something new, and make lasting memories.