For this first cohort, we worked with young women between 18 and 35 years of age. We made the call through advertising campaigns on social networks and strategic approaches with various organizations working with Afro-descendant women.

The application review team received more than 200 applications. We carefully examined every application and those that met the focal requirements were chosen.

We then used a scoring system for each application based on:

1. Emotional descriptors. Compelling reasons why they should strengthen their anti-racist training.

2. Ability to bring change within their community through the knowledge acquired in the HDA program.