Glensi Coxolcá is a second-year student at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Sociology of Law, Criminology, and Justice. As an Indigenous scholar and advocate, Glensi is dedicated to empowering women and Indigenous communities, with a long-term goal of returning to Guatemala to establish a nonprofit organization that supports these causes.

Growing up in Sololá, near Lake Atitlán, in a family of seven, Glensi speaks Kaqchikel, Spanish, and English. Her passion for advocacy and social justice began during her elementary school years. She earned a scholarship to attend Panajachel International School, where she learned English and cultivated a deep commitment to challenging gender and Indigenous stereotypes. She has since actively participated in workshops addressing gender-based violence, social inequality, and leadership development.

In 2022, Glensi launched “Kaslem Ixoqui” (Woman’s Life), a project designed to support Indigenous teenage girls in developing life plans and self-esteem workshops. Her efforts focused on raising awareness of community challenges while empowering young women to pursue their aspirations.

Since starting her academic journey at the University of Minnesota in 2023, Glensi has demonstrated exceptional leadership and mentorship. She actively contributes to volunteer activities, public speaking, and student support initiatives:

• International Buddy Program Mentor: Guided an exchange student through cultural adaptation discussions.
• Women’s Center Cross-Cultural Group Panelist: Spoke on women’s empowerment and financial literacy.
• SHE CAN Speaker (International Women’s Day 2024): Delivered a keynote speech on the challenges Indigenous women face, inspiring others to overcome self-doubt and embrace leadership.
• Founder of “Weaving Our Strength” (Summer 2024): Established a community empowerment project in Guatemala, training young girls and single mothers in weaving, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and violence prevention. This initiative helped 25 women achieve economic independence and personal growth.

Currently, Glensi serves in several leadership and mentorship roles at the University of Minnesota:

• Section Leader (College of Liberal Arts): Leads weekly lectures for first-year students, promoting an inclusive learning environment.
• Peer Coach (CLA Career Services): Helps students with resumé building, career exploration, and professional confidence.
• Undergraduate Student Leader (Institute on the Environment): Leads initiatives to establish mini-forests in Minneapolis and Saint Paul using the Miyawaki method, promoting environmental sustainability and equitable urban green spaces.

Glensi is also passionate about supporting international students, inspired by the guidance she received upon her arrival at the University of Minnesota. She served as an International Student Peer Leader in the Career Start program and was awarded the Culture Corps Scholarship for her contributions to cultural exchange and student support.

With a deep understanding of her culture and an unwavering commitment to social justice, Glensi aspires to return to Guatemala to lead transformative initiatives that combat inequality, violence, and discrimination, creating lasting opportunities for Indigenous women.