Aliento Features: Evania Losure
“The only thing more powerful than hate is love.” The words spoken by multi-Grammy-winning artist Bad Bunny during the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show were one of the most-watched events in America. At a time when our country has been divided by politics, beliefs, and personal differences. His message to the audience reminded millions of something simple, love has the power to bring us together.
When watching this exact moment on television, I thought about my own story and the values that have shaped who I am today.
My name is Evania Losure, and I come from a family of immigrants. My journey first began before I was even born, it started with my mother and the sacrifice she made in search of greater opportunities and a better future. Her courage and resilience built a foundation that allows my sister and me to pursue our dreams.
Entering high school as a freshman, I knew I wanted to make an impact, creating a voice for myself and others whose stories often go unheard. That same year, I was introduced to Aliento through the Spanish Latino Club. Although I was still young, I immediately became interested in the organization and its work. I admired how Aliento established a space where students could advocate for their communities, celebrate their identities, and support one another.
As years began to pass, my interest in advocacy never wavered, it grew into a mindset. By the summer before my senior year, I finally decided to apply for the Aliento Fellowship. While filling out my application, I was excited, but also afraid. I questioned whether I was qualified enough and wondered if there were other students who could make a bigger impact than I with stronger qualities. I already had a busy schedule, attending three different schools at once and serving as the Spanish Latino club president. Part of me wondered if taking on another commitment was the right decision. However, I knew opportunities like this do not come often, and something kept pulling me toward the fellowship. I wanted to continue growing as a leader and to create a voice for myself and others, while surrounding myself with people who share my passion for creating change. Although I was afraid of not being selected, I was even more afraid of letting self-doubt stop me from pursuing an opportunity that aligned so closely with my values and goals.
The 2024 election year further motivated me to apply. After the election, I saw how quickly differences in opinions could create tension and division among people. It felt as though many individuals were becoming more focused on what separated us rather than what united us. I saw anger, hostility, and growing conflict, which made me realize how important advocacy and community building truly are. I had seen the dedication and hard work of students, advocates, and organizations like Aliento that continually fight to ensure every voice is heard and valued. I wanted to be part of that work. I wanted to learn how to advocate effectively, build meaningful connections, and help create spaces where people feel seen, respected, and supported despite their differences.
I would be lying if I said Regina and Renata were not a big part of my decision to apply to the fellowship. As Fellowship alumni themselves, they are two friends of mine who I look up to immensely, not only because of everything they have accomplished, but because of the kind of people they are. Their passion, determination, and willingness to help others inspired me from the moment I met them. Seeing them lead with strength and compassion showed me the kind of person I aspire to become, and their example encouraged me to believe that I belong in spaces like the Aliento Fellowship, too.
Throughout my fellowship experience, I often thought about my family and the sacrifices they made to get me where I am today. Every achievement I reach is possible because of the foundation they built and the values they taught me.
As for the fellowship itself, I have strengthened my confidence, deepened my understanding of advocacy, and been reminded of the importance of community. In addition, I met the most amazing people who I now look up to and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them!
While people may hold different opinions, beliefs, or perspectives, I believe every person deserves respect, dignity, and understanding.
Moving forward, I will carry that lesson with me forever. I may have my own opinions and experiences, but I choose to lead with love rather than hate. At the end of the day, we all bleed the same red. If there is one lesson I will take from both my family’s journey and my time as an Aliento Fellow, it is that meaningful change begins when we choose to see humanity in one another.
