Founding Story
From Personal Experience to Community Mission
My name is Isabella, and I am the founder of the Community Leader Academy. I grew up in South Miami surrounded by nature and family gatherings that nurtured curiosity and connection. While confident in my early school years, middle school brought challenges with anxiety and panic attacks. Those struggles revealed how isolation and low self‑esteem can deeply affect young people when opportunities for social and emotional learning are limited.
Inspired by my journey and the experiences of peers, I created Community Leader Academy as a support system. At CLA, we empower students ages 11–16 to connect knowledge, emotions, and relationships—building clarity, resilience, and belonging. My mission is to give young leaders the tools for resilience, belonging, and success in an information‑abundant, ever‑changing world.
Exclusive Workshops
Access expert-led workshops on emotional regulation, leadership, and tech.
Personalized Support
Book one-on-one sessions for tailored guidance on personal growth and success.
Collaborative Projects
Participate in group projects that foster teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Empowering Youth
Our Mission
At Community Leader Academy, we focus on nurturing the next generation of leaders by developing their ability to synthesize information, emotions, and relationships. Our unique approach combines social-emotional learning, critical thinking, and creative expression with responsible technology use, preparing students not only for academic success but for a future that demands emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cross-cultural understanding.
Students
Summer Sessions
Days per Week
Students per Cohort
OUTCOMES
Learning Outcomes
Self-Awareness
Develop introspection through guided reflection, journaling, and mindful practices to enhance emotional intelligence.
Critical Thinking
Enhance problem-solving skills by exploring real-world issues, engaging in creative and collaborative activities.
Identity Formation
Build belonging and confidence by connecting to personal culture, community, and shared earth-based experiences.
Tech Literacy
Learn responsible and ethical uses of technology, including AI tools for creative and collaborative projects.
STAFF
Our Team
Founder & Program Director
Isabella Rodriguez
Isabella’s vision for Community Leader Academy stems from her personal journey. She’s passionate about guiding young people to become confident, emotionally intelligent leaders, fostering a sense of belonging and growth.
- Social-Emotional Curriculum Design
- Group Dialogue Facilitation
- Community-Building Frameworks
Lead Facilitator
Thomas Drake
Thomas brings over 10 years of experience in teaching youth through creative expression and movement. His dynamic approach blends dance, yoga, and critical thinking to encourage student growth and self-awareness.
- Movement-Based Learning
- Social-Emotional Facilitation
- Student Engagement
Shape the Future With Us
Our 2026 pilot program hosts only two intimate cohorts of 15-20 young leaders.
Secure your child's spot in a summer that redefines learning.