Dr. Veronica Benavides is the CEO of Bilingual Generation, a quickly growing organization that decolonizes language learning to promote bilingualism in homes and schools. Growing up in Texas, Dr. Benavides didn't speak Spanish, the only language that her grandparents spoke. Later, she realized that the Spanish language was not the only thing missing from her childhood educational experience-she'd never seen herself reflected in the curriculum, period. She has dedicated her career to closing that gap, creating linguistically and culturally affirming learning spaces and resources to support the reclamation and flourishing of heritage languages across global contexts. Dr. Benavides is also a Fulbright Scholar who received her doctorate in education leadership from Harvard University. She has worked and consulted for organizations like The LEGO Group, NYC Department of Education, Gates Foundation, The Leadership Academy, and Bank Street College of Education. She is a published author in several peer-reviewed journals and outlets, including Young Children and Harvard Education Publishing Group. A skilled educator and storyteller, Dr. Benavides is a sought-after presenter at conferences and events across the globe. From intimate settings to audiences in the thousands, she has presented at SXSWEDU, Courageous Conversations About Race Summit, CASEL National Conference, Rockwool Fonden, and Harvard Kennedy School Black Policy Conference. Andres Acosta is a non-binary creator, entertainer, and educator. As a first-generation immigrant and third-generation educator, they love to explore the impact of language on pop culture and society. Andres has used their platform to explore social issues and teach Spanish through comedy and current events. Raised by a Puerto Rican mother and a Honduran father, Andres brings a uniquely multicultural background, which is strengthened by their time spent immersed in the diverse Latine communities of New Orleans, Miami, Boston, New York, and Los Angeles. Andres has worked on Amazon Prime Video's digital production team promoting a Spanish language streaming series. They have also been sponsored by Meta, TikTok, and GIPHY to create exclusive content focused on the Latine community. Andres currently lives in Los Angeles. Addy Rivera Sonda is the illustrator of Strong Mama, Bobby and the Big Valentine, and more. She lives in a little micro-sanctuary with her partner, a rescued sheep, a chicken, and seven cats! She knows imagining the world we want to live in is the first step in creating it. Addy lives in southern Mexico.
