Benjamin Perez “Amplifying First-Gen and Latino Voices Through Media”

Title: Founder
Organization: Perez the Advisor
Age: 38

Benjamín is an educator, advocate, creator, first-gen, podcaster, and a Salinero from the 831. For the last six years he has been creating content on social media under Perez The Advisor which brings awareness on topics such as higher education, mental health, masculinity, assimilation, the first-gen experience, the college experience, Greek Life, and the Latino diaspora. He blends humor into his content to bring the Latino community together. Throughout his journey as a content creator he’s had the privilege of hosting workshops for high school and college students, being selected as the keynote speaker for multiple graduation ceremonies for Latino/x students, and led professional development sessions.

With over a decade of experience advancing student success for historically underserved communities, he has dedicated his career to supporting students through equity-centered programming, student engagement, leadership development, academic advising, and culturally responsive leadership. He has provided direct advising to students navigating complex academic and personal challenges, including issues related to persistence, financial barriers, and sense of belonging. He has focused on a student-centered and culturally responsive approach to advising, grounded in an understanding of systemic barriers and the importance of advocacy, trust-building, and holistic support.

He’s a first-generation college graduate and now a first-generation professional. He’s an alum of Hartnell College & San José State University. He was born & raised in the Salad Bowl, Salinas, Ca. He’s the son of immigrants from México which he is very proud of. He has been adopted by the Bay Area and currently resides in San Jose, CA with his beautiful family of 4.