En Confianza Cohort
In Puerto Rico, we say “en confianza” when we invite someone to feel comfortable, let their guard down, and be themselves. It’s about creating a sense of ease and connection, even when we may not have known each other for very long.
En Confianza Cohort is an 8-week small-group virtual experience for heritage Spanish speakers who are ready to reconnect with their language, build confidence in their Spanish-speaking identity, and create sustainable habits for their lifelong language journey.
Together, we'll make space for our different language stories, practice using Spanish in real and meaningful ways, and remind ourselves that we don't have to be perfect to belong in the conversation.
✨ Apply early for priority consideration.
Curious?
You might be a great fit if...
✔️ You understand more Spanish than you speak.
✔️ You replay conversations in your head, wishing you had said more.
✔️ You worry about making mistakes or being judged.
✔️ You want to connect more deeply with your family, culture, or community.
✔️ You've tried apps or classes, but still don't feel confident speaking.
✔️ You're ready to practice in a supportive, encouraging community.
If you found yourself saying "that's me," you're in the right place.
Imagine if...
Instead of saying:
"I understand Spanish... but I don't speak it."
You could say:
✨ I'm proud to use my Spanish."
✨ "I can have conversations with my family."
✨ "I can participate without worrying about mistakes."
✨ "I know how to keep a conversation going."
✨ "I feel confident introducing myself."
That's what En Confianza Cohort is designed to help you do.
What is En Confianza Cohort?
En Confianza Collective is a virtual, intimate, application-based learning experience that combines conversation practice, language coaching, reflection, and community.
This isn't a grammar class.
It's a space to build both confidence and communication skills to use Spanish in your everyday life.
Together we'll focus on:
🌿 Speaking with confidence
🌿 Building practical communication skills
🌿 Learning through real conversations
🌿 Understanding (not fearing grammar)
🌿 Strengthening your connection to language, culture, and identity
🌿 Letting go of perfectionism
What's Included?
Over eight weeks, you'll receive:
✨ Weekly Virtual Live Small Group Sessions
✨ Four highly curated Sana Circles for reflection and confidence-building
✨ Four Proficiency-Based Language Learning Sessions
✨ One Individual Coaching Session
✨ ACTFL-informed Language Evaluation
✨ A Personalized Language Growth Plan
✨ Workbook & Journal Prompts
✨ Session Recordings
✨ Private WhatsApp Community
Why an Application?
En Confianza Cohort is intentionally small. Rather than filling seats on a first-come, first-served basis, we thoughtfully curate each cohort to create a supportive environment where everyone can participate, learn, and grow together.
Applications help us understand your goals, ensure the cohort is a good fit, and create the best possible experience for everyone involved.
Important Dates:
Application opens
January 4th: Applications reviewed
September 8th: Reach out to all application submissions
Testimonials
LUPA Talks has been integral to growing my confidence and connection to my language and culture this year. For most of my life, I've felt like I was the only one who struggled with the emotional aspects of being "so close, yet so far" from my second language and culture, and being a part of the LUPA community and Spanglish sessions has let me know over and over again that there are others in the same boat. Xiomara is so intentional and works so hard to make it a shame-less, open hearted space for all of us to learn, heal, and grow together, and I could not be more grateful for the space to process and practice Spanglish together.
Alex O' Connor Ramírez (Oregon) [Spanglish Sessions]
Through LUPA Talks, I've had the opportunity to be exposed to core concepts about the Spanish Language in a welcoming environment. More than that, it has allowed me to explore the cultural roots of my family and to cultivate a sense of belonging.
Tony D. (Maryland) [One on One Sessions]
Working with LUPA Talks has been an affirming and life-changing experience. Prior to the sessions, I did not speak Spanish or Spanglish out of fear of my level of language proficiency. Both of my parents were Puerto Rican but they did not raise me in a Spanish-speaking household. I am deeply grateful for the experience with LUPA Talks and highly recommend the Spanglish Sessions.
Virginia (New York) [Spanglish Sessions]
Investment
Pay in Full
$800
One time
Payment Plan
$450
2 monthly payments (Beginning & Midpoint of program)
Not at all.
En Confianza Cohort is designed for all levels of Spanish learners who want to become more comfortable using Spanish. It is best for those who identify as heritage Spanish speakers.
Online via Zoom.
Each cohort is intentionally limited to approximately 8–10 participants to create an engaging, supportive learning environment where everyone has space to participate.
January 20th-March 10th 2027 (Wednesdays 8pm ET)
Sessions will be recorded and shared exclusively with the cohort participants.
It is not a requirement for participation, but heritage Spanish speakers are prioritized.
Meet Your Host
Xiomara Rivera Pagán, Ph.D.
Founder of LUPA Talks, Dr. Rivera Pagán brings 15+ years of experience supporting multilingual learners and shaping language programs across the U.S. and beyond. Her doctoral work focused on how language policy impacts outcomes for multilingual learners of English. She’s presented locally and internationally, and serves on the board of Cultura Plenera and performs with Los Hijo 'e Plena, organizations rooted in Puerto Rican culture and community.
Interested but not ready to sign up today?
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