Opening Doors to the Life Sciences: A Pathway for El Nido Youth
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- 2 min read
March 24, 2026
This month, 8th–11th grade youth from El Nido Family Centers’ South LA FamilySource Center participated in a hands-on lab day at Compton College through a new partnership with BioscienceLA, a nonprofit working to strengthen and expand the life sciences ecosystem in Greater Los Angeles, through their Sparks program, a youth career exploration initiative focused on the life sciences.
This lab day is one part of a four-part Sparks cohort experience designed to introduce middle and high school students to careers in the life sciences. The program includes:
A kickoff event with a career panel featuring industry professionals
Two hands-on lab days
An industry site visit to expose students to real-world work environments
These components give young people a clearer understanding of life sciences career pathways—a high-growth industry with opportunities to earn a living wage—and how to access them.
Importantly, this work is intentionally connected to local community colleges, including Compton College and Los Angeles Mission College, which offer certification programs that serve as accessible entry points into the life sciences for students seeking alternatives to a traditional four-year degree.
During the lab day, students conducted experiments such as extracting DNA and examining genetic material, working alongside instructors. For many, it was their first time in a college lab setting.
The event also brought together partners and leaders from across Los Angeles County, including representatives from Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell’s Office and the LA County Department of Economic Opportunity, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding access to high-growth and accessible career pathways. Univision was also on site to capture the day. Watch the segment here.
This partnership reflects a broader focus at El Nido on implementing transformative career and life readiness programs for youth, particularly in industries like the life sciences.
A second Sparks cohort is already underway at El Nido Family Centers’ Pacoima FamilySource Center, in partnership with BioscienceLA and Los Angeles Mission College, with additional cohorts and opportunities to follow.
View more photos from the day HERE.
