Carolina

Tell us why you became a teacher

I felt the call to teach as a teen, turning dreams into purpose. My mom once dreamed of being a teacher, and I carry that dream with Colombian passion. I’ve taught over 2,000 students in 16 years. Sentí ese llamado desde joven y convertí sueños en propósito. Llevo la pasión de mi mamá y de mi tierra en cada clase que doy.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When I taught cumbia for the first time, I told its story, rhythm, and soul. A student, moved to tears, said, “I want to know the cumbia that made you who you are.” Fue inolvidable enseñar la cumbia. Un niño lloró y me dijo: “Quiero conocer esa cumbia que te hizo así.” Esa emoción me marcó.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d bring Colombian culture into the classroom with books, music, and tech. I’d grow as a bilingual educator to inspire others through identity and heritage. Invertiría en cultura, libros, música y crecería como docente para que otros valoren su identidad y raíces.