Actress-Advocate ESTEFANÍA REBELLÓN (Yes We Can World Foundation) on Educational Equity and Narrative Change
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About this episode
Two truths drive this conversation: images shape policy, and classrooms shape futures. Hollyn speaks with actress, activist, and storyteller Estefanía Rebellón—refugee from Cali, Colombia and co-founder of Yes We Can World Foundation—to unpack how a consent-first media ethic and year-round education are changing the lives of migrant children at the U.S.–Mexico border.
Estefanía takes us from her first days in Miami ESOL to the moment she saw kids stranded without school during the 2018 border crisis. That shock became action: mobile schools, bilingual curriculum, and mental health support that enroll children within 24 to 48 hours of arriving at a shelter. She explains why the team runs all year, adapts to each shelter’s needs, and stretches every dollar—right down to price-scanning supplies—so learning doesn’t stop when headlines fade. We also explore the “Migrant Process” class, where students build pride in heritage and learn to introduce their countries by strengths, not stereotypes.
A major thread is ethical storytelling. Estefania rejects “pity pics,” prioritizing consent and uplifting images so children aren’t forever defined by their hardest moment. That philosophy feeds a broader narrative change effort featuring Latine creators who share vulnerable stories to reach beyond echo chambers and invite honest debate about immigration. We talk about moving from marches to durable systems, building leadership that outlives any founder, and why asking communities what they need should come before designing programs.
If you care about immigration, education access, and the power of narrative to reduce stigma and inspire policy, this is your roadmap. Hear practical ways to volunteer, donate, and amplify work that centers dignity while delivering measurable impact. If this conversation resonates, follow the links below, share with a friend, and leave a review—your support helps us keep elevating stories that move people to action.
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