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Umoja International Student Fellowship

Explore the Diaspora, Redefine the World

Study Across the Globe. Experience Cultures. Build Leadership Skills. Return Transformed.

Our Mission

Umoja, (a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is a community and critical resource dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences of African American and other students. We believe that when the voices and histories of students are deliberately and intentionally recognized, the opportunity for self-efficacy emerges and a foundation is formed for academic success. Umoja actively serves and promotes student success for all students through a curriculum and pedagogy responsive to the legacy of the African and African American Diasporas.

In attending the Umoja Program it has inspired me in more ways than I can imagine. It has provided me with the opportunity of being introduced to the resources that will assist in my growth toward academic and college success.

Devonta Thomas

Student - Sierra College

I see Umoja as a sisterhood/brotherhood that will last a lifetime. My experience with Umoja has contributed to my life academically, spiritually and emotionally. For me, Umoja represents Black excellence.

Grace Swint

Student - American River College

Before Umoja, I was really isolated and didn't assume any leadership roles. Umoja has revealed the leader in me and I'm grateful.

Terrill Patillo

Diablo Valley College

Umoja International Student Fellowship

Events

UPCOMING

WINTER COORDINATORS RETREAT

January 29-31, 2026

San Diego Mission Bay Resort

1775 East Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109

Purpose: Network alignment, practice sharing, data-informed program planning.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL SYMPOSIUM

March 13, 2026

(Location announcement forthcoming)

Purpose: Regional collaboration and student engagement across SoCal campuses.

NORTHERN CALIFORINA REGIONAL SYMPOSIUM

April 24, 2026

(Location announcement forthcoming)

Purpose: Regional collaboration and student engagement across NorCal campuses.

SUMMER LEARNING INSTITUTE

June 9 - 12, 2026 | Sacramento

Audience: Coordinators, counselors, faculty leads, classified professionals, administrators
Purpose: Intensive learning institute to prepare campuses for the 2026-27 academic year.

PAST

Umoja XXI Conference

Nov 6 - Nov 8, 2025 - San Jose, CA

Student Leadership Summit

Jul 24 - Jul 26, 2025 - CSU Bakersfield

Summer Learning Institute

Jun 11 - Jun 13, 2025 - San Marcos, CA

2025 Washington State Symposium

May 8, 2024 - Highline College

2025 Southern California Regional Symposium

April 4, 2025 - Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science

2025 Northern California Regional Symposium

March 14, 2025 - UC Davis School of Medicine

2025 Winter Coordinators Retreat

Jan 7 - Jan 9, 2025 - San Diego, CA

See All Events

Resources

HBCU Resources

Scholarships

UC Resources

News

Umoja Community Education Foundation Announces XXI Annual Conference: Voices of the Future II in San Jose, California

October 31, 2025

UCEF Expands to Four New Campus Programs!

April 18, 2025

Letter of Solidarity

March 3, 2025

California State University - Bakersfield And UCEF announce groundbreaking partnership to support students

February 10, 2025

Southern California Fires Update: Umoja Coordinators Support Affected Communities

January 25, 2025

Student Application

Umoja is a vibrant community of students, staff, and practitioners at over 70 community colleges! In Umoja, there is a community for every student! We would love to connect with you! Tell us a little about yourself!

Join the Umoja Community on your Campus!

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