Las Capitanas

DRAFTED’s Sports Content Creator Brand Ambassador Program

At DRAFTED, we know women of color are still vastly underrepresented in sports media—whether on-air, in the commentary booth, or behind the scenes. That’s why, in Fall 2024, we launched Las Capitanas, a Sports Content Creator Brand Ambassador Program, taking a bold step to reshape sports storytelling.

This ten-week program connects ten dynamic Latina voices, each bringing their authentic selves to celebrate and elevate Latina Sports Culture. Participants will gain access to DRAFTED’s resources and mentorship, building strong portfolios and developing the skills to become the next generation of sports media leaders. Join us in bridging the gap and elevating diverse voices in sports.

MEET YOUR FALL 2024 CAPITANAS

  • Amanda Aleman

    Los Angeles, CA

    Amanda Aleman, a former D1 soccer player with roots in Nayarit and Zacatecas, Mexico, is now a dynamic social media creator working with top sports teams like the LA Lakers and Kansas City Chiefs. She is passionate about amplifying Latina voices in sports and empowering the next generation of Latinas through creative storytelling.

  • ANDREA GONZALEZ

    San Diego, CA

    Andrea, a first-generation college graduate from a Mexican American household, has built a career in marketing and content creation with a passion for storytelling. Currently the Marketing Manager for the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, she’s also planning the Fuerza Latina: GenZ Voting Empowerment Summit while working toward her dream of becoming a sports analyst for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

  • ARACELI MERCADO

    Chicago, IL

    Araceli Mercado, a proud Latina from Chicago, has gained valuable experience in sports marketing through her work with the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. As a Capitana, she’s passionate about showcasing Latina sports culture, inspiring women to get involved, and celebrating the fire and pride of the Latina community in sports.

  • GENEVIEVE RICO

    Bay Area, CA

    Genevieve Rico is a filmmaker with over a decade of experience in both independent and commercial settings, specializing in documentary and narrative genres. She is passionate about creating films that not only entertain, but also inform and inspire, particularly for underrepresented communities.

  • GINETTE JAVIER

    Orlando & Miami, FL

    Ginette, a Dominican-American from Central Florida, has made her mark in the South Florida sports scene, bringing her dynamic personality to roles with the PGA TOUR, Orlando Magic, and ESPN West Palm. With nearly five years of experience in sports radio and as an emcee at major events, she creates bold, spontaneous content while proudly representing Latinas in the sports industry.

  • maria benicio

    Los Angeles, CA

    Maria Paula Benicio, a proud Mexican American from Los Angeles, discovered her passion for sports photography while capturing Sunday league games and eventually documented matches for major teams like Real Madrid. Motivated by the gender gap in sports photography, her goal is to one day lead a communications department for a professional team, work for FIFA, and create a mentorship platform for women pursuing careers in sports.

  • NICOLE Fernandez

    Miami, FL

    Nicole Fernandez is a bilingual freelance sports journalist, content creator, and philanthropist with over 12 years in the sports industry, particularly in baseball. As the founder of Game Time Foundation, which has helped over 4,000 children in Latin America, Nicole focuses on storytelling that captures the essence of individuals beyond their athletic achievements, emphasizing their values and personal journeys.

  • raquel rizo

    Los Angeles, CA

    Raquel, a proud first-generation Latina from L.A., is breaking barriers in sports marketing with her creative flair and expertise in social media content creation. As a full-time working mom, advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and recent honoree by Women in Sports & Events, she’s dedicated to creating opportunities for the Latine community while proudly representing her Mexican heritage.

  • SABRINA TALBERT

    New York, NY

    Sabrina is a New York-based journalist with over five years of experience, focused on amplifying the voices of BIPOC athletes and wellness leaders. Now eager to step in front of the camera, she’s excited to share her journey with the DRAFTED community and inspire other Latinas to pursue careers in sports media.

  • VALERIA OROZCO

    Dallas, TX

    Valeria Orozco, a first-generation Hispanic from Milwaukee, brings experience in photography and social media content creation from her time with the Milwaukee Admirals and Milwaukee Bucks. Now working with FC Dallas on game days, she is eager to make her mark on the Dallas sports industry by leveraging her skills in fan engagement and content management.

STAY IN THE KNOW!

Applications for Cohort 1 are closed but please fill out this form to be on the waitlist for our 2025 programming!