The document outlines several initiatives by the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to introduce underrepresented youth to computer science and technology careers. The Code as a Second Language campaign works to bring computer programming education to more schools. The ESA and LOFT fellowship selects 20 minority students to develop video games addressing social issues. The LOFT STEM Leadership Symposia provide career guidance and networking for students and professionals in science and technology fields. The Youth Awards recognize innovation through academic achievement and community involvement.

1. HISPANIC HERITAGE FOUNDATION
LOFT INNOVATION TRACK
CODE AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (CSL)
Code as a Second Language (CSL) is a national campaign that works towards
introducing youth to computer programming, technical training and careers
accessible to women and underrepresented minorities. The initiative addresses
America's need for creating a more diverse pool of talent in the tech industry. CSL
provides the opportunity for interested schools to bring CSL programs onto their
respective campuses, since 9 of 10 schools do not teach computer programming. It is
through the CSL site that we will be able to create a more intentional and strategic
connection between technology professionals and schools across the nation. For
more information, please visit www.loftcsl.org.
ESA LOFT VIDEO GAME INNOVATION FELLOWSHIP
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) and LOFT partner to select 20
minority students as Video Game Innovation fellows based on games and apps they
develop to address social change in their community. The fellows, ages 15-25, visit
Washington, DC to meet with Members of Congress and White House
representatives to expose their vision. They are also awarded a grant to further
develop their projects to ensure that we engage youth on their terms.
“There is an innovative tinge to playing video
games – it just needs to be bridged.” – Antonio
Tijerino, President & CEO, HHF
LOFT STEM LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIA
The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) in partnership with the U.S. Army, CVS
Caremark Workforce Initiatives, Exxon Mobil, Google, OCI Group, and Southwest
Airlines (the Official Airline for LOFT) host Latinos On Fast Track (LOFT) STEM
(science, technology, engineering, and math) Symposia in 10 regions across
America. This symposium provides career path guidance, educational opportunities
and connectivity for students and young professionals in the STEM fields. The
program features dynamic, exclusive leadership trainings, led by the Army, designed
to help student-leaders define their role within their schools or organizations and
encourage them to make an impact on their communities.
YOUTH AWARDS- INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
The category of Innovation and Technology for the Youth Awards, sponsored by the
Entertainment Software Association (ESA), awards three students in each of our
ten markets with a bronze, silver, and gold medallion respectively. The Youth Awards
recognize the academic performance, community involvement, leadership, and focus
on the “innovation” track by celebrating the awardees with a high-profile ceremony,
an educational grant, and the opportunity to be selected as the national winner for the
Innovation & Technology at the National Youth Awards ceremony.
LOFTNETWORK.ORG
A platform with a reach of over 10,000
young professionals and “Track”
experts committed to workforce
diversity and advancement of
technology.
COMING SOON:
LOFT LABS
LOFT’s incubator initiative to
support finance and investment
in upcoming start-ups and tech
programs.
ESA Fellow Marilu Duque
Coding Jam in Austin, TX
Hispanic Heritage Foundation
1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 11115, Washington, DC
www.HispanicHeritage.org
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