Cultural/Ethnic

Afrikan Mxn's Collective The Mission of the Afrikan Mxn’s Collective (AMC) is to develop and support a community of strong Afrikan mxn by way of discovering our unique contribution to the struggle on campus and abroad. To collectively realize our full potential academically, politically, socially, economically, emotionally, and spiritually. To network within and beyond the collective to unify and uplift all Afrikan Mxn in our community. To develop and carry out our collective vision for the community through the fostering of self-knowledge and determination. To work with the Afrikan Womxn’s Collective and Blaque to build and sustain solidarity and power for all Afrikan Folx within the Afrikan Student Union.
Afrikan Student Union ASU exists to promote, protect, and serve the interest and educational rights of individual and collective needs of the Afrikan student body, and community within the context of the struggle for Afrikan liberation. This body is inclusive of all people.
Afrikan Womxn's Collective The purpose of the Afrikan Women’s Collective is to provide a safe space for women who identify with the Afrikan diaspora to join together and discuss topics and issues relevant to women of Afrikan descent. The Afrikan Women’s Collective also strengthens social ties, fosters individual excellence, and promotes achievement for black women in community on the campus of UCLA and beyond.
American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) AISES Mission Statement: "The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) is a national, nonprofit organization focused on substantially increasing the representation of American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, First Nations and other indigenous peoples of North America in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) studies and careers."
American Indian Student Association AISA stands as a welcoming association open to all UCLA students, although American Indians constitute less than 1% of the student body nationwide. We have cultivated a robust and supportive community that nurtures American Indian, Alaskan Native, and First Nation students in their educational pursuits at UCLA. Within the Native Bruin community, students unite to advance education and cultural understanding. Together, we challenge misconceptions surrounding American Indian art, language, history, and lifestyles. Our strength lies in our diverse backgrounds; every member enriches our community with unique perspectives, fostering a vibrant environment. At AISA, we've pioneered student-led outreach initiatives like American Indian Recruitment (AIR) and Retention of American Indians Now! (RAIN!), both headquartered in the Student Activities Center. These projects are tailored to empower Native individuals in their higher education journeys. We also host significant events annually, including Native American Heritage Week, the Youth Conference/Basketball Tournament, and the UCLA PowWow. Additionally, we pay homage to the Gabrieleño peoples, the original custodians of the Los Angeles Greater Basin and Southern Channel Islands, acknowledging their enduring connection to the land.
Armenian Law Students Association The objectives of this organization are to provide a means for ALSA members to further their educational and career objectives: 1. To provide a forum where law students of Armenian background or those interested in Armenian culture may meet each other, cultivate ties, and network with peers and alumni. 2. To provide academic support and mentoring, and to further the career goals of the ALSA's members. 3. To coordinate with Armenian-affiliated professional organizations in providing legal services to underserved communities in the greater Los Angeles area. 4. To sponsor programming and events that positively contribute to the scholastic development of legal issues of concern to the Armenian community. This may include lectures, panel discussions, and symposiums. 5. To sponsor programming and events that is of interest to the legal community and particularly, the UCLA School of Law.
Armenian Medical Students Association at DGSOM The Armenian Medical Students Association (AMSA) at DGSOM is dedicated to supporting and uniting Armenian medical students through mentorship, cultural identity, and academic success. AMSA fosters community engagement by providing culturally competent healthcare and addressing health disparities in the Armenian population. Through collaboration with Armenian physicians, mentorship opportunities, and educational events, AMSA connects students with professional networks and advocates for the health needs of the Armenian community locally and globally. We strive to cultivate leadership and advocacy skills, creating an inclusive space for all interested in Armenian culture and healthcare.
Armenian Students' Association at UCLA The Armenian Students' Association (ASA) at UCLA was founded in 1945 and strives to internally create a safe community space for its membership through a variety of cultural, social, and activist initiatives, and externally represent the unified voice of its members. As an organization, it is focused on providing a platform for Armenian-American undergraduates at UCLA to connect with their roots, network with one another, and engage with the greater campus community.
Asian/Pacific Islander Law Students Association APILSA serves as a valuable resource and a significant social support network for law students to succeed academically, socially, politically, and professionally. APILSA coordinates numerous events and activities that educate and inform members about current Asian Pacific Islander issues, and prepares members to manage such issues in both academic and professional legal settings. APILSA also provides a common forum for expressing members’ needs and concerns as Asian Pacific Islander law students. APILSA strives to develop innovative programs that lend academic and peer support, and aspires to continue its long-standing success.
Association of Chinese Americans The Association of Chinese Americans is one of the largest social and cultural organizations on campus representing over 900 members. Our student group is involved in cultural, social, community, and political projects which benefit its members, campus, and community. Our programs are primarily geared toward the unique bi-cultural identity of Asian Americans striving to understand their heritage, history, and experiences. The goal of the Association of Chinese Americans is to educate and raise awareness about Asian American bi-culturality. We'd love to answer any questions you have! acabruins@gmail.com INSTAGRAM: @acabruins https://instagram.com/acabruins?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Association of Hmong Students The purpose of the Association of Hmong Students (AHS) shall be to establish a Hmong identity, promote cultural awareness and be recognized as part of UCLA’s diversity. AHS also addresses the needs and concerns of Hmong students and the larger Hmong community through community organizations, outreach and advocacy. AHS aims to promote higher education, advocate and take appropriate action on issues affecting Hmong-Americans.
Association of Indonesian Americans Founded in 2020, the Association of Indonesian Americans is an organization for Indonesian-Americans, people of Indonesian descent, and people who are interested in the political, social, cultural, or educational aspects of the Indonesian-American community in the United States. This organization was formed out of a need to create a space for a group that is historically underrepresented in many facets of American society. As members of the Association of Indonesian Americans, we feel that it is our duty to not only learn and interpret Indonesian and Indonesian-American history and culture, but to empower Indonesian-Americans and members of this organization by uniting and supporting the Indonesian-American community through political advocacy, social interactions, cultural awareness, education, and outreach.
Backgammon Club at UCLA The Backgammon Club is going to be dedicated to forming a campus community of players who share a passion for this ancient and intellectually stimulating game. Whether an experienced player or completely new to backgammon, this club will offer an inclusive environment for learning and mastering the rules, strategies, and subtleties of the game. Backgammon, a game with over 5,000 years of history, not only serves as an amazing tradition into various cultures but also as a mental challenge that sharpens critical thinking, strategic planning, and decision-making. Its unique blend of skill and chance makes it an excellent tool for developing problem-solving skills under pressure, improve cognitive abilities, enhance pattern recognition, and boost resilience. The club will serve as a platform to connect with fellow students across campus who share an interest in the game, making it easier to find playing partners and form friendships. For people new to the game, there will be tutorials online and in-person when requested. We will hold regular game nights, workshops, and strategy sessions designed to help both beginners and advanced players improve their skills. Additionally, the club will organize friendly competitions and tournaments, offering members the opportunity to engage in healthy rivalry while also improving and enjoying this historic cultural tradition. The club will have backgammon players with years of experience, who are going to be ready to help other club members while enjoying the game themselves.
Bangali Students Association (BSA) @ UCLA Bangali Students Association is committed to providing a safe space for students to educate and increase awareness of Bangali culture, language, and history.
Bridges International Weekly meetings designed to help foster relationships between international and American students, enhancing the overall experience that an international student will have here in America. This is done through free food, fun activities, and friendships.
Bruin Bhangra Bruin Bhangra is a cultural competitive Indian dance team. We perform a style of folk dance called Bhangra that originated in northwest India in the state of Punjab, celebrating the festival of harvest. This high energy, fun workout incorporates western hip hop influence in its traditional and modern mixed music. In addition to competing in competitions across the nation, we, as a committee, also host the largest Bhangra competition in North America every memorial day weekend, tagged "The Super Bowl of Bhangra."
Bruins For Israel Bruins for Israel is an organization at UCLA that seeks to educate fellow students and faculty members with regards to the politics, culture, and history of the State of Israel. Our organization's members include Jews, non Jews, graduate and undergraduate students, and people from all political backgrounds.
Chinese Music Ensemble at UCLA The purpose of our ensemble is to meet a steady growth of interest in China and Chinese culture on campus and local communities by promoting learning, demonstration and performance of Chinese traditional music.
Genocide Relief, Awareness, and Community Education (GRACE) The Genocide Relief, Awareness, and Community Education (GRACE) Organization is committed to preventing, addressing, and seeking justice for all forms of mass atrocities targeting ethnic and religious groups. In a world desensitized by digital media, GRACE attempts to combat the widespread ignorance of genocides by organizing events featuring speakers, survivors, and experts to share their stories and educate UCLA students. Each month, the organization will focus on a specific genocide, dedicating the month to lectures and presentations that explore the culture of the affected group, the nature of the genocide, and the pursuit of justice. Additionally, GRACE will promote donation efforts, educational resources, and petitions. While we recognize that such initiatives cannot resolve the larger issues at play, fostering a passionate student-led community is a crucial step that GRACE undertakes toward addressing the inaction perpetuating genocides worldwide.
Giddhe Diyan Raniyan Giddhe Diyan Raniyan is an Indian dance team that performs a style of dance called Punjabi giddha. Our purpose is to foster a community of amateur level dancers who are interested in learning a new dance style, meeting new people, and connecting with the Punjabi culture.
Grupo Folklórico de UCLA Established in 1966, Grupo Folklórico de UCLA remains committed to the celebration of Mexican heritage through regional music and traditional dances. Our goals are to create positive Latino/a/x role models, promote cultural awareness throughout the campus community, and encourage the youth of Los Angeles to celebrate their cultural roots and to continue on to institutions of higher learning, like UCLA. No experience is necessary to join our group!
Hablamos Juntos Hablamos Juntos is a student-led organization dedicated to empowering Spanish-speaking families by improving children's speech development. Our club provides specialized training for undergraduate students during the fall quarter, equipping them with the skills to teach monolingual Spanish-speaking parents effective strategies to enhance their children’s communication skills. In the winter and spring quarters, these students lead parent training sessions, offering guidance and support to families in need. Hablamos Juntos offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in meaningful community service while developing valuable teaching and communication skills. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, we aim to make a positive impact on the educational and social development of Spanish-speaking families.
Hanoolim: Korean Cultural Awareness Group at UCLA Hanoolim: Korean Cultural Awareness Group is a student club at the University of California, Los Angeles that was founded in 1990 with the vision of spreading Korean culture and awareness across the Los Angeles community. Since its establishment, Hanoolim has played an integral role in bringing Korean culture to UCLA through the numerous events it hosts such as Korean Culture Night, the largest student run Korean production in the nation. As a student organization, we aim to build strong bonds between members and the UCLA community and create lasting memories for our members through social programs. Join us as we create a show that has a lasting impact on our community.
Hermanas Unidas To unite and support Latinas and BIPOC people in their pursuit of a degree in higher education, Hermanas Unidas was founded to promote academics, community service, and collegiate networking, while emphasizing HERMANDAD. 1. Academics: Through an emphasis on academics not only do we empower our minds but our future as well. Group Study Halls, Scholarship/Internship Information, Academic Honor Society, 100 A's 2. Community Service: In the struggle to empower ourselves we must never forget about our communities. Compton Initiative, AIDS Walk, Health and Education Conference. 3. Collegiate Networking: In stressing Hermandad, a family network is created to foster an environment of respect and unity while supporting our own interests and talents. Quarterly Retreats, Statewide Conference, Fundraising Events
Hui O 'Imiloa (Hawaii Club at UCLA) Hui O 'Imiloa seeks to share the "local experience" with the greater UCLA community. From hula and Hawaiian language, to lei making, Hui O 'Imiloa holds various cultural workshops throughout the year and continues to celebrate the spirit of the islands, creating an unforgettable experience for students to gain knowledge and explore the many beautiful qualities of Hawai'i and its culture. A "home away from home" for many UCLA Hawai'i students, Hui O 'Imiloa serves as a family for all and a bridge to our diverse cultural roots. Whether you are an incoming Bruin, a continuing student, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about the Hawaiian and local culture, Hui O 'Imiloa welcomes you to join the 'ohana!
Indian Student Union at UCLA The Indian Student Union at UCLA is a non-profit organization that seeks to create awareness of South Asian cultures. ISU promotes cultural education and unity through active involvement in and organization of social and community events.
Iranian Student Group The Iranian Student Group at UCLA intends to unify the Iranian community on campus in pursuit of a deeper sense of cultural, historical and communal identity. We hope to provide a forum, composed of individuals concerned with Iran and the Iranian diasporas irrelevant of background, where students can critically educate one another through educational, cultural, and social events. Los Angeles boasts the largest community of Iranians outside of Iran and the group assumes the responsibility to provide a proud, informed voice to link student concerns and experiences with those in the broader community, California, Iran and beyond.
Jewish Law Students Assn. The Jewish Law Students Association provides Jewish educational, professional, cultural, social, and spiritual programs and resources for the students and community of UCLA Law School, with the goal of creating an awareness of and fostering Jewish life and community at the Law School.
Jewish Medical Student Association (JMSA) The Jewish Medical Student Association (JMSA) supports Jewish life for medical students at UCLA and promotes the study of the Jewish tradition and its contributions to the field of medicine. In addition, JMSA serves to fight antisemitism while practicing allyship to the Jewish community.
K-pop International Student Association (KINSA) The K-pop International Student Association (KINSA) is a multi-purposed club. Our first purpose is to be a social club, letting UCLA students who enjoy K-Pop become friends with one another through our fun events such as learning K-Pop dances, karaoke, Korean BBQ, and attending K-Pop concerts. Our second purpose is to provide new UCLA students, both freshman and transfers a diverse and supportive community. Many of our club members are coming to UCLA from all over the country and the world. We believe our club offers a fun and safe environment free of the pressures of academic and career based clubs on campus. Feel free to check out our socials below! Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/579195255478382/ Facebook page: www.facebook.com/KINSAclub Instagram: @kinsaatucla
Korean Student Association at UCLA The Korean Student Association (KSA) is a student-run organization dedicated to serving the Korean student community at UCLA. Under the mission statement of "United Korean Voice: Legacy, service, and the united Korean student body", we aim to elevate the Korean Bruin experience by providing a supportive and inclusive environment. We do so by providing opportunities through which Korean students can connect, find resources, and build a strong network both socially and academically. Through collaboration with other international student unions and universities, we together reinforce the values of diversity and culture within college communities. We also provide opportunities for students to connect with the larger Korean diaspora through strong relationships with local Korean-run businesses in Los Angeles. Overall, we strive to foster a vibrant, comfortable space through which students can explore and celebrate Korean culture and identity.
Latine Graduate Student Association (LGSA) The Latine Graduate Student Association (LGSA) is an organization that strives to create a safe and welcoming space for Latine graduate students on campus across all departments and programs to come together and form community. LGSA promotes the advancement of Latines in academia and professional spaces and strives to uplift our Latine community, especially in the LA area, through community service projects and initiatives. Through their work and community-building efforts, LGSA members uphold it's four pillars which are Comunidad, Herencia, Growth, and Service.
Latinx Pre-Dental Society at UCLA As only 9% of dentists are of the Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity, Latinx Pre-Dental Society aims at increasing retention rates of pre-dental students from these underrepresented backgrounds. By providing Hispanic/Latinx pre-dental students with exposure to resources, mentorship, and networking, we aim to create a supportive community, and draw attention to the lack of oral care and oral education in underserved communities.
Malaysian Students Association at UCLA , The The Malaysian Students Association at UCLA is a cultural student organization open to students and faculty of all nationalities that aims to represent the Malaysian community at UCLA and: 1. Assist in the transition of new UCLA students with Malaysian roots or anyone who interested in joining the club . 2. Promote interactions between members and the community. 3. Promote Malaysian culture to UCLA community. 4. Provide a social support system
Middle Eastern Student Association @ UCLA The Middle Eastern Student Association (MESA) at UCLA is a secular and nonpolitical cultural, social, and educational organization dedicated to uplifting students of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) backgrounds and creating space for meaningful representation in higher education. Open to all Bruins who identify as MENA, are of MENA descent, or wish to engage with the region’s diverse cultures, MESA serves as a hub for connection, empowerment, and learning. We foster a strong sense of community through engaging social events, cultural celebrations, and philanthropic efforts, while also offering academic and professional development opportunities that support our members’ growth both inside and outside the classroom. MESA is committed to bridging cultural gaps on campus, celebrating our shared heritage, and building lasting networks that honor the richness of MENA identities. Through our work, we aim to cultivate solidarity, amplify underrepresented voices, and ensure that MENA students feel seen, supported, and celebrated at UCLA and beyond.
Mixed Student Union Mixed Student Union exists to provide a safe, open environment for people of mixed heritage including but not limited to multiethnic, multiracial, multicultural, transracial adoptee, mixed identity individuals and anyone who identifies with or is interested in the mixed heritage community. We aim to educate and spread a greater understanding of the mixed heritage experience and encourage self-exploration of cultural, ethnic and racial identity. We also strive to counteract social misconceptions of the mixed heritage community by promoting social and political consciousness.
Muslim Union Muslim Union's aim is to lead institutionalized positive change within the UCLA community through increasing the availability of knowledge and understanding of Islam.
NASA (North African Students Association) The North African Student Association aims to foster a welcoming community for the North African students and others interested in the culture and tradition. With endless support for our members, we strive to provide platforms for members to share cultural experiences and build strong connections and friendships. NASA is an inclusive place that promotes cultural identity and awareness as we collaborate with other cultural clubs to provide a fun and engaging community.
Nikkei Student Union (NSU) The mission of the UCLA Nikkei Student Union is to organize social and community service activities as well as to promote Japanese American cultural and political awareness amongst the student body.
Pacific Islands Students Association The purpose of this organization shall be to: Promote the interests of Pacific Island students at UCLA. Promote the identity of Pacific Island cultures on campus. Enhance our awareness of the participation of Pacific Island communities within the Los Angeles area. Foster an understanding and appreciation of various Pacific Island cultures among the members of the organization. Objectives: Sponsor activities on campus and outreach programs/activities in the Pacific Island communities. Collaborate with the University administration and other organizations to affect and maintain satisfactory University policies toward Pacific Island students and applicants for admission.
Pakistani Students Association at UCLA PSA is a student organization committed to providing a space for all students to come together and learn about Pakistani culture, history, & politics. We put on social, cultural, political and philanthropic initiatives for our community of Bruins - whether they identify as South Asian or not! We'd love to have you join our family. Peace. Love. PSA.
Palestinian Student Union The Palestinian Student Union (PSU) at UCLA is dedicated to celebrating Palestinian culture and identity while supporting Palestinian students. Our mission is to create an inclusive community that amplifies Palestinian voices, fosters cultural expression, and advocates for the rights and liberation of the Palestinian people. By providing a nurturing space for activism, storytelling, and cultural traditions, we emphasize the importance of our heritage in empowering and uniting our community.
Pilipino Council of the Mabuhay Collective (PCMC) Founded in 2009, the Pilipino Council of the Mabuhay Collective (PCMC) is a council of students that support, facilitate, and unite the Pilipinx and Pilipinx-American community at UCLA. The Mabuhay Collective is comprised of 15 Pilipinx student organizations based at UCLA: Anakbayan at UCLA, Kabalikat Kore, Kappa Psi Epsilon, Pilipino Recruitment and Enrichment Program, Pilipino Transfer Student Partnership, Pilipinos for Community Health, Pilipinos in Engineering and Science, Pilipinx Living Learning Community, Pilipinx Pre-Law Pipeline, Samahang Modern, Samahang Pilipino, Samahang Pilipino Advancing Community Empowerment, Samahang Pilipino Cultural Night, Samahang Pilipino Education and Retention, and Tinig Choral. The Council, which consists of co-equal Cabinet and Senate branches, brings together its 15 organizations and 900+ students. PCMC is founded on five pillars - academia, culture, politics, profession, and society. These ideas underpin the PCMC motto: “Magkasama Bilang Isa, Mga Tao,” or “Together As One, The People.” In addition to serving as the supporting body of the Collective, PCMC plans events such as Pilipino Welcome Reception, Pilipino-American History Month Celebration, MabuFest, and Pilipino Farewell Reception. PCMC also facilitates the Pilipinos Advancing Leadership Success (PALS) internship on a quarterly basis, allowing student interns to shadow current Cabinet members, participate fully in meetings, and contribute to event planning. PALS interns are able to learn more about topics such as the Pilipinx community at UCLA and beyond, Pilipino history, mental health practices, and outlooks from an Asian-American perspective.
Pilipino Transfer Student Partnership Our mission is to raise awareness about cultural and academic issues regarding the transfer experience by advocating the needs of transfer students, providing a space for student support and encouraging leadership and community responsibility.
Planners of Color for Social Equity Planners of Color for Social Equity (PCSE) promotes critical thinking and grassroots activism to advance socially just planning. PCSE serves as a support system for all students committed to raising awareness of socially just planning both on campus and within our communities. PCSE strives to fight for social justice in the streets while building a foundation for "revolutionary" planning in academia. As PCSE moves further into the 21st century, it is critical to preserve the hard-fought victories for the inclusion of marginalized voices and to remain vigilant against efforts that could undermine or erode progressive policymaking and critical thinking. PCSE is committed to holding accountable the social justice mission and goals of the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs and its Urban Planning Program. PCSE hopes to foster the growth of planners who will institutionalize equity, equality, and economic justice for all communities. http://instagram.com/pcse.ucla
Puente@UCLA The purpose and vision of this club is to create leadership opportunities, community service, and be a welcome committee to hopeful UCLA students, while creating unity among members who have similar cultural ties.
Punjabis at UCLA Punjabis at UCLA is a dynamic student organization that aims to create a closer linkage with Punjabi culture, heritage, and identity. From the rich traditions to the shared history of East and West Punjab, the club embodies its motto: "Divided by Border, United by Culture." More than festivities, it's a space for cultural exchange, dialogue, and community building. It will constantly work to create a comprehensive approach through which students can be acquainted with Punjabi culture through various initiatives, including cultural workshops, social events, and educational programs. Punjabis at UCLA welcomes people of all backgrounds to share this journey of discovery, honor the shared tradition, address issues, and forge strong relationships.
Samahang Pilipino Samahang Pilipino: 1) educates, organizes, and advocates for the Pilipinx/Pilipinx American community on and off campus; 2) is an inclusive and open environment that promotes diversity through relevant education to cultivate personal and collective identity/growth; 3) works to create a sense of family and appreciation for all cultures as we create progressive social change. We welcome all students, whether you are Pilipinx or simply want to learn more about the culture! You do not need to speak the language or have any background at all, we just want to create a space for students to come and discuss about Pilipinx culture and find a tight-knit community within a big school. Samahang Pilipino has 5 entities: Board, Kabalikat Kore (KK), Samahang Pilipino Advancing Community Empowerment (SPACE), Samahang Pilipino Cultural Night (SPCN), and Samahang Pilipino Education and Retention (SPEAR). SP Board helps to provide relevant programming through general meetings, social events, community and political engagement, and collaborations with stakeholders both internally and externally. KK is our gender and sexuality component, providing a safe space for the exploration of one’s identity and all related intersectionality, learning how to be an ally, and more. SPCN works to put on our annual cultural night show in Royce Hall with a myriad of suites and committees helping/performing on stage and behind the scenes. SPACE is our access project, working with high school and community college students to reach higher education. Finally, SPEAR is our retention project in which peer counseling, mentorship, and an internship are all opportunities for students to gain support for their academic and holistic retention. Again all are welcome and there is no membership fee, application, or audition required. Hope to see you soon! GroupMe link: https://groupme.com/join_group/101849393/XkpGjqrK
Sikh Student Association at UCLA Sikh Student Association provides a platform for all students to excel in a variety of different ways: academics, spirituality, community service and social life. In scholarship we provide academic resources, mentor mentee programs, and internship opportunities. Amongst our members, we provide intense study guides for classes. This furthers our efforts in making each member feel welcome; thus, establishing a safe space in which it is possible to communicate thoughts and have an open discussion. We also co-program with many other South Asian Organizations on campus in order to provide students with other outlets, professional and cultural. In spirituality we have Kirtan nights, set prayer times, meditation, Gurbani and Punjabi classes, and debates on the faith. Additionally, our association provides the students of UCLA with the opportunity to engage in unique community service efforts such as Sikh Relief (who provide assistance by fighting the drug problem in Punjab, help Sikh Political Prisoners, provide relief in Nepal or anywhere else there is a natural disaster) as well as work with the United Sikh Movement to offer langar (free food) to individuals that lack these resources (i.e. Skid Row, Riverside, and other regions in LA). Lastly, we make sure our members feel at home and enjoy the beautiful city of LA by hosting mixers, bonfires, beach trips, hikes, movie nights, ice skating and a range of other fun social activities. From day one, we hope to be efficient with our professional lives but at the same time enjoy our college years through Seva, Simran (prayer and mediation), and Kirt (working diligently). We are partnered with the United Sikh Movement, the official link between SSAs across California, to constantly expand and connect with the Sikh sangat at large.
Students for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity at UCLA (SIDE) SIDE stands for Students for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity at UCLA. This student-initiated organization was created in 2020 to broaden the student awareness and understanding of systemic racism's role in health disparities and healthcare. We aim to provide education to the graduate and School of Dentistry communities so that we are not only aware of these issues but to challenge our own implicit biases. Our mission is twofold in that it also aims to create a safe space where students are heard, valued, respected and protected. This includes developing inclusive events, community service/mission trips to serve underrepresented groups, educational workshops via lunch and learns and promoting multicultural awareness, stewardship and celebration.
SWANA AT UCLA The Southwest Asian/North African (S.W.A.N.A.) Health Alliance at UCLA is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive community of aspiring health professionals with a focus on the S.W.A.N.A. region. The alliance strives to promote academic excellence, provide comprehensive pre-health guidance, and encourage a shared dedication to service. Through mentorship, collaboration, and a commitment to improving health outcomes, members are empowered to make a meaningful impact in both local and global health initiatives related to the S.W.A.N.A. community. Our mission is to bring together students who are interested in health studies and in supporting the underrepresented Southwest Asian/North African (S.W.A.N.A.) communities, both on and off-campus. By spearheading initiatives that highlight important issues in this region, we aim to educate and engage the campus community, creating well-informed advocates for the health and well-being of S.W.A.N.A. populations. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive network and building a sense of community among those with a shared passion for the S.W.A.N.A. region.
TASA- Taiwanese American Student Association Our mission is to spread Taiwanese awareness and culture through community involvement and to build and strengthen the Taiwanese American community on campus.
Teo-Chew Association The Teo-Chew Association shall exist to advocate for the promotion, preservation, and connection of Teo-Chew and Chinese culture for the general welfare of the Teo-Chew and Chinese community.
Thai Student Association at UCLA Serving the community since 1980, the Thai Student Association at UCLA (previously known as Thai Smakom, pronounced “tie sa-ma-kohm”, roughly translated as “Thai association”) seeks to increase the visibility of the Thai and Thai-American culture at UCLA, as well as promote social, cultural, and professional exchanges. We welcome everyone (undergraduate and graduate students, alumni, etc) from any heritage and background. As UCLA’s only Thai student organization, we strive to provide Bruins with experience and exposure to Thai culture through different social, educational, and community service events.
Tinig Choral Tinig, which means “voice” in Tagalog, is a student-initiated, student-run, a capella choir. From Tagalog to Latin to English, from cultural to contemporary pop music, we spill our hearts into the lyrics of our songs. We hold no auditions, and we invite all current UCLA students who have a love for singing. Established 1988. We are a family built on cultural and musical expression!
Underrepresented Graduate Students in Psychology Underrepresented Graduate Students in Psychology (UGSP) is a group dedicated to supporting and advocating for psychology students from racial, linguistic, geographic, or socioeconomic backgrounds that are currently underrepresented in graduate education. UGSP is designed to provide valuable social support to these students whom may otherwise find it difficult to pursue their graduate studies. Through activities, mentorship, and community outreach, we hope to provide a community that encourages the potential and promise of those from underrepresented groups. By promoting and improving multicultural training in psychology, we hope to not only increase ethnic minority student recruitment, retention, and graduation but also improve intergroup relations within our department. UGSP operates with the following branches: UGSP Brown Bag Committee This committee organizes a lecture series that is open to all graduate students. These talks are given by faculty members and post-doctoral students from underrepresented backgrounds or whose research focuses on diversity issues. Each Brown Bag lecture includes both a research presentation and a career development component. This speaker series allows graduate students to network with prominent faculty members from underrepresented groups, hopefully fostering a sense social connectedness and community within the Psychology Department. UGSP Undergraduate Outreach Committee This committee organizes panels for undergraduate students to learn about various aspects of the graduate student experience. We hope to galvanize interest in graduate school by offering examples of successful underrepresented students from their own university. We also hope that this will provide undergraduates with the opportunity to connect with graduate students so they feel comfortable asking questions about diversity in graduate school. UGSP High School Outreach Committee As members of underrepresented groups, we find it imperative to give back to our communities through teaching, education, and service. UGSP will target high schools in low-income neighborhoods and will hold lectures for both parents and students about getting into college. UGSP Transfer Outreach Committee This committee is dedicated to providing resources and improving the experiences of the diverse group of transfer students at UCLA. A central goal of this committee is to serve transfers as they navigate their undergraduate experience and provide tools and information as they set future goals by creating/hosting events and building community between undergraduate and graduate students. UGSP Social Committee The Social Committee plans and coordinates various events each year, typically off campus. Our goal in organizing these events is to foster a sense of community among UGSP members. It is a chance for students to interact with people that come from diverse backgrounds who share similar experiences.
UNICA (Unión Centroamericana de Estudiantes) We, the members of UNICA (or Unión Centroamericana de Estudiantes) envision a resilient Central American Diaspora supported by a lively and visible student-led movement that actively works to serve the community. Our mission is to empower Central American students at UCLA by building community, and informing members on political, historical, and culture through social events.
United Afghan Club We are an organization that will promote cultural diversity and awareness on campus. We intend to introduce the Afghan culture to non-Afghans and become a social, cultural, and educational hub for Afghans to get to know one another better. In the process, we will learn more about our ancestral origins and traditions, develop a sense of pride and unique identity, and assist others in the community through educational empowerment. In doing so, we aim to promote a positive image to other Americans about the oft-misrepresented and overlooked Afghan people and their heart-warming traditions.
United Khmer Students United Khmer Students is a student-run organization dedicated to fostering a positive environment for Khmer students and Khmer culture at UCLA. The club serves to act as an active voice for the the greater Cambodian community and to advocate for its relevant issues. Due to the lacking representation of Khmer people, UKS feels itself to be a necessary component within the UCLA community. UKS not only provides a social environment for Khmer and non-Khmer students alike, but works towards creating a politically and culturally active space. The club is consistent with cultivating cultural education and traditions for its general membership as well as providing leadership opportunities for members to be involved within their communities.
USAC Cultural Affairs Commission The Cultural Affairs Commission is one out of the fourteen offices in USAC, the Undergraduate Student Association Council. The mission of the Cultural Affairs Commission (CAC) is to put on quality programming with cultural, political, or social relevance that is accessible to all students. The commission is focused on “edutainment” (education + entertainment), arts activism, fostering community spaces centering marginalized communities and student-run programs that: ignite dialogue regarding current events, facilitate an exhibition of creativity, and promote cultural opportunities on campus.
Womxn of Color Collective, The The Womxn of Color Collective is dedicated to creating a safe space and a community within the UCLA School of Law where the unique experiences, opinions, challenges, and successes of womxn and womxn of color are shared, discussed, and developed. Our mission is to promote the empowerment, inspiration, and personal and professional development of womxn and people of color in the legal field.