The Collective Identity at the University of Southern California
Ages 18-26
The Program That Started It All
From four USC students meeting in a coffee shop to a thriving, recognized student organization at USC’s Cultural Black Center for Student Affairs (CBCSA), The Collective Identity Mentoring has grown into a powerful community of belonging, empowerment, and transformation.
We serve undergraduate and graduate students, and all are welcome in this space. The response has been phenomenal, showing just how needed and valued this community is. At this age, we have found that guest speakers are especially impactful, as youth on the USC campus have an abundance of questions about the next steps in their future.
Our Confabs: Where Real Conversations Spark Transformation
Every cohort that begins with The Collective Identity starts their journey in our foundational Confabs. These are not traditional workshops that talk at participants. Instead, we talk with them. We are eager to hear their voices, their thoughts, and to create a space where we can challenge and be challenged in the beliefs we each hold.
The purpose of each Confab is to create peer support and spark thought-provoking discussions. These conversations are grounded in listening, sharing, and mutual respect. As part of our Confabs, we always include a meal, because we know that food has a way of making people feel welcome and at ease. And honestly, what college student is going to turn down a free meal, right?
Support Our Mission And Feed the Conversation
Our Excursions: Where Shared Adventures Create Lasting Bonds
At The Collective Identity, we know that connection is built not just in conversation, but in the moments we share out in the world together. Our excursions are designed to give mentees the chance to try something new, step outside their comfort zones, and create memories that deepen the trust and friendships within the group.
Each excursion is about more than just the activity itself; it's about the laughter on the way there, the stories shared over a meal, and the way we see each other differently after experiencing something new together. And with many more adventures ahead, we can't wait to see where the next journey will take us.
Conversations With Changemakers
Our guest speakers have quickly become one of the most anticipated parts of our program. Based on the feedback and enthusiastic participation of both the USC student body and our TCI mentees, we have seen how these sessions leave a lasting impact. Each speaker brings their unique expertise, personal stories, and practical insights, creating moments that both inspire and inform. These conversations not only broaden perspectives but also give our mentees tangible tools and encouragement to pursue their goals with confidence.
Our Guest Speakers
Miranda Hall — TCI Board Member who joined us for an unfiltered, honest conversation about sex, consent, and empowerment, helping our mentees navigate relationships with confidence and clarity.
Julius Tennon — Actor, producer, and President of JuVee Productions, who inspired our mentees by sharing his journey in Hollywood, including practical steps on breaking into the entertainment industry and how to sell a script.
Autumn Burke — Former California State Representative who led an impactful session on the power of a Black woman’s vote, addressing political questions from the next generation of Black women leaders.