About Mariana
I am a…
Change Agent, Concerned citizen, Connector, Educator/Teacher, Environmentalist, Global soul, Life mentor, Parent, Project manager, World traveler
Bio
I immigrated to the US 16 years ago and started working at Los Gatos High School library. Post-pandemic the school opened a Wellness Center and I was hired as the Coordinator. I work with several groups of students in peer-to-peer education. Previously I lived in Canada and I grew up in Brazil.
I'm passionate about
Fostering acceptance of diversity and helping youth harness their superpowers of connection with one another.
An idea worth spreading
We all know teenagers would rather talk to and listen more to their peers than to adults. We also know teenagers absorb "viral" behaviors through social media. By creating a relationship of trust and a real bond with teenagers, we can guide them into spreading healthy behaviors, instead of harmful ones.
Areas of expertise
Education, Equity, Wellness, Youth
The TED story
I started watching TED talks after I immigrated to the US and in my role as peer-to-peer education advisor, I've helped youth organize TEDx events for the past 7 years.
Things you might not know
Learning different languages and crafts, like macrame and crochet.