CAMILA FIGUEIRAS MERIGGI

MAKING HISTORY

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When Mila began her studies at AMDA, she quickly noticed something deeply disheartening—the Latinx community was the only cultural group without representation. Rather than accepting this absence, she chose to transform it into a mission. She started gathering voices, stories, and signatures from fellow Latinx students and presented a formal petition to the school. Months later, her vision became a reality: AMDA approved the creation of The Latin Alliance—the first Latinx student organization, and the first student-led alliance in the history of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy.

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ONE PURPOSE

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The Latin Alliance was born from a single, powerful intention: to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space where Latinx students—many of whom left their homes and countries to follow their artistic dreams—could find a sense of belonging. A space to feel seen, to feel home. A place where unity transcends borders and where heritage is honored, celebrated, and shared.

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ONE VOICE, MANY STORIES

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Through artistic expression, The Latin Alliance raises the voice of the Latinx community within the industry—spotlighting its vibrant roots, traditions, and values: hard work, respect, commitment, passion, perseverance, and resilience. It also serves as a platform to explore and discuss vital political, social, economic, and cultural issues affecting Latin America and the Latinx diaspora.

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FAMILIA

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“We are one big FAMILIA,” Mila shares. “We have each other’s backs. We work together to drive change and amplify the presence of Latinx voices in the performing arts. I created this space to give my brothers and sisters the chance to be seen, to stand tall, and to represent—with pride and love—where we come from.”

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LEADING THROUGH ART

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Throughout her time at AMDA, Mila served as the President and visionary behind The Latin Alliance. Elected every semester by her peers, she directed, choreographed, produced, and conceptualized all of the alliance’s artistic initiatives—from intimate showcases to two iconic flash mobs in the heart of Times Square during Hispanic Heritage Month. Her leadership turned vision into movement.

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A LEGACY OF EMPOWERMENT

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Mila is regarded by her community as a leader, a changemaker, and an example of what it means to honor your roots while reaching for your dreams. The Latin Alliance became more than an organization—it became a lifeline for students, offering hope, comfort, inspiration, and a powerful reminder that they are not alone.

“I always tell them,” Mila says, “fight for your dreams—because no one else can do it for you. With the values we stand for, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.”

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Today, she is honored that her FAMILIA is still carrying the torch forward, building on the legacy she began, and continuing to uplift, celebrate, and represent the Latinx community with pride and purpose.