Voices of Impact was created to give students access to real stories from real people—leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, alumni, and community members—who share the lessons, failures, habits, and ideas that shaped their lives.
Through storytelling, connection, and student leadership, Voices of Impact creates a powerful experience where students learn that their voices, their ideas, and their futures matter.
The mission of Voices of Impact is to inspire students through the power of ideas, human connection, and leadership habits by bringing together schools and communities for a day of storytelling, mentorship, and learning.
Voices of Impact empowers students to:
At the heart of Voices of Impact is a simple but powerful belief:
One idea has power.
Love has power.
And habits have power.
One idea can spark inspiration.
Love creates connection and reminds students that they are valued and supported by their community.
Habits build the discipline, resilience, and character needed to turn dreams into reality.
When students are exposed to powerful ideas, surrounded by a community that believes in them, and guided by strong habits, they begin to see themselves as leaders capable of shaping their future.
Voices of Impact is a conference-style experience hosted within schools where classrooms become spaces for storytelling, inspiration, and dialogue.
Guest speakers from the community visit classrooms to share:
• their childhood and background
• their educational or professional journey
• challenges and failures they faced
• the habits that helped them succeed
• the lessons they want students to remember
Students have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in discussions, and learn directly from people who have walked different paths in life.
The goal is not simply to inspire students for a day, but to give them stories and lessons that stay with them for years to come.
Voices of Impact is designed to be led by students.
Students help bring the event to life through leadership roles such as:
• designing banners representing the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
• creating morning announcements and promotional videos
• voting for the speakers they want to hear
• helping welcome and escort guest presenters
• creating artwork and thank-you gifts for speakers
This process allows students to take ownership of the event and practice leadership in real and meaningful ways.
Voices of Impact is also an opportunity to strengthen the connection between schools and their communities.
Local businesses, alumni, parents, and professionals are invited to participate in the event by:
• sharing their stories with students
• supporting the event through sponsorship or donations
• attending the community breakfast held for guest speakers
When community members take time out of their day to speak with students, it sends a powerful message:
You matter.
Your future matters.
And your community believes in you.
Voices of Impact also honors the life and legacy of Manuel Fernandez, whose love for people, ideas, and community inspired the creation of this event.
Manuel believed deeply in the power of gathering people together to share ideas, learn from one another, and build opportunities for the future.
In his memory, the Manuel Fernandez Memorial Scholarship is awarded each year to a student who exemplifies:
• leadership
• resilience
• compassion
• perseverance
• a commitment to making a positive impact in the world
This scholarship ensures that his legacy continues through the next generation of leaders.
In a world where students often face uncertainty, stress, and pressure, Voices of Impact creates a space where they can:
• hear stories of perseverance and resilience
• see role models from their own communities
• learn that failure is part of growth
• discover the habits that lead to success
Most importantly, students walk away understanding that their ideas, their dreams, and their voices have the power to shape the future.
Voices of Impact was created to rebuild hope, strengthen school culture, and inspire students through authentic human connection.
Through Educating with Love, Lizette Roman now shares this framework with other schools and communities interested in bringing Voices of Impact to their students.
For inquiries about bringing Voices of Impact to your school or community, please contact:
Lizette Roman
Educating with Love
