Leonardo
Leonardo Sosa has mentored over 1,500 youth to become technology ambassadors, and he has trained over 100 instructors on best practices in a technology and leadership curricula across the country since 2003. In 1995 he launched Youth-Net, the first youth technology program serving the Mission. In 2003 he developed a San Francisco base for Digital Connectors, and later expanded the program in 12 West Coast cities. Digital Connectors, which combined technical training and service learning, became a national movement since 2010.
Mr. Sosa has shared his insights on the digital divide at seminars, technology conventions, and tech companies. He is currently the technology manager at the Digital Opportunity Center for MEDA, a multi-tiered resource that connects community members to computer training, broadband access to low income families that receive free/reduce lunch, wireless access, support for job searches, financial education, and many other services.
Mr. Sosa holds a California teaching credential, multiple Microsoft Office Certifications, a CompTIA+ Certification and an associate of science (information technology) from CCSF. Mr. Sosa’s personal and professional history gives him extensive insight into the challenges that confront Latino youths aiming to succeed as first-generation college students. He is an enthusiastic role model whose professional path illustrates the wide range of career opportunities that begin with technical training. Mr. Sosa came to San Francisco from Guatemala in 1984. He taught computer applications at Mission Language Vocational School, City College and other programs around SF, Bay Area and across the state. Since 2003 his greatest passion is directing leadership and tech training program for low- income youth in the Mission. His extensive contacts in San Francisco’s tech industries are invaluable to youths striving to bridge the digital divide and make a place for themselves in the most exciting sector of the region’s economy.
Leo Sosa launched the Mission Techies Program back in January 2014 which empowers young adults ages 17-24 from underserved, disconnected and at risk to launch a Career in the Technology Sector. Since the program started 33 young adults are working currently in tech jobs with companies like Facebook, Pandora, Jones IT, Echo Tech, Eden Tech, Geek Squad, UCSF, Twitter, Riverbed Technologies, Love Height Computers and Comcast just to name a few.
Organization
Mission Economic Development Agency (MEDA)- Rooted in the Mission and focused on San Francisco, MEDA’s mission is to strengthen low- and moderate-income Latino families by promoting economic equity and social justice through asset building and community development.
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