OCELOTL IS:
Nahuatl for Jaguar
A female-led, Oakland-based, non-profit organization focusing on youth development, healing, and the creation of strategies and curriculum that empowers young people.
The Bringer of Rain
Two California-born women of mixed heritage collaborating to bring youth voice and cultural relevance to education and mental health
Creating a culture of empowerment
Revered and feared the by the Mexica and believed to embody empowerment and change
Power into Purpose
One of the most important animals for the ancient Mexicans, the Jaguar embodies all the elements of the four directions. Air, Fire, Earth, and Water. A mammal who gives birth on land and cares for her young, a nocturnal hunter, and an excellent swimmer, she also climbs into the trees. A creature, who is intuitive and fearless, she embodies personal empowerment.
She is our alebrije, guide, and protector. Our mentoring logo shows a Zapotec warrior (a replication of a codex from Museo Nacional de Antropologia in Mexico City) carrying a baby ocelotl. We hold and care for our young people with reverence and respect for who they are about to become. Power into Purpose.
