SHINE Ambassadors
Youth Wellness Conference
First Generation Wellness
The SHINE Ambassadors Youth Wellness Conference is a student-led event created by youth, for youth. Centered on the theme First Generation Wellness, the conference brings together first-generation students from across Napa County to explore mental health, identity, and pathways to opportunity.
Students selected this theme after recognizing their shared experiences navigating school, family expectations, and systems that were not built with first-generation youth in mind. Through workshops, activities, and conversations with first-generation mentors and professionals, the conference aims to create a welcoming space where youth feel seen, connected, and empowered.
Conference Goals
• Normalize conversations around mental health and wellness
• Affirm first-generation identities and lived experiences
• Connect youth with mentors, professionals, and community resources
• Provide practical tools that support well-being, confidence, and future goals
Day-at-a-Glance Agenda:
9:00-10:00 AM- Registration Opens and Light Breakfast
10:00–11:00 AM — Keynote Address/Opening Address
11:00–12:00 PM — Breakout Session #1
12:00–1:00 PM — Lunch
1:00–2:00 PM — Breakout Session #2
2:00–3:00 PM — Breakout Session #3
3:00–3:40 PM — Closing Remarks & Reflections
3:40–4:00 PM — Dismissal
Breakout Session Strands:
Breakout sessions will run concurrently across three learning spaces:
Studio A – College & Career Pathways
Topics may include career exploration, financial access, scholarships, and navigating postsecondary pathways.
Studio B – Mental Health & Wellness
Topics may include mental health education, prevention, advocacy, and wellness skill-building.
Studio C – Hands-On & Experiential Learning
Interactive workshops focused on creative expression, movement, and holistic wellness.
Keynote Speaker
Isela Garcia White
Isela Garcia White, LCSW is a Latina licensed clinical social worker, speaker, and founder of Lotus Bloom Therapy, a California-based virtual therapy practice. A Bay Area native, she has over 20 years of experience supporting students and adults across school, community, and university mental health settings, with a strong focus on first-generation and historically marginalized communities.
As a first-generation professional herself, Isela is deeply committed to addressing the academic, professional, and family pressures, as well as the systemic barriers that shape the experiences of first-generation students and professionals. Her work centers on redefining strength, normalizing help-seeking, and reframing wellness as something that is essential rather than conditional.
Isela currently works in university mental health and offers culturally responsive, trauma-informed workshops and talks in collaboration with schools and community organizations. She is honored to serve as the keynote speaker for the SHINE Ambassadors Youth Wellness Conference and to support youth in meaningful conversations about first-generation wellness, resilience, and belonging.
Venue & Hotel Accomodations
Pre-Conference Workshop
Napa Wellness Center Tours
On March 4th, join us for a full day of tours and learning from Napa Valley Unified School District’s Wellness Team, including tours of NVUSD’s school-based wellness centers. A limited number of spaces are available. $75 per person.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Gold Level
Sponsor the Youth Wellness Conference
Invest in First-Generation Wellness
The SHINE Ambassadors Youth Wellness Conference is powered by community partnership. By becoming a sponsor, you are directly investing in the mental health, leadership, and future success of first-generation youth across Napa County.
Your support helps us:
Provide free access for 100+ high school students
Offer culturally responsive workshops and keynote programming
Provide meals and wellness activities
Create a safe and affirming space for youth
The Heart of Community Learning.
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