"Estrella" means "star" in Spanish, and stars have long been symbols of guidance, hope, and limitless possibilities. We chose the name Estrella Spanish because we believe that learning a new language, like Spanish, can illuminate paths to personal growth, connection, and opportunity—just as a star lights the night sky.
For us, the journey of learning Spanish is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary. It’s about discovering the beauty of a vibrant culture, building bridges across communities, and gaining the confidence to shine in a globalized world. Our mission is to empower learners to reach for their own stars—whether that’s through travel, education, career goals, or simply fostering deeper human connections.
"Estrella Spanish" reflects our vision of being a guiding light for our students, helping them navigate their language-learning journey with inspiration and purpose. Just as the stars remind us that the sky’s the limit, we want every student who joins Estrella Spanish to feel empowered to achieve their dreams with Spanish as their key.
Ellie Zhou
Founder
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Elie is a junior at Westmont High School. She has been learning Spanish since elementary school, and developed a strong passion in bringing Spanish to the global community. In her free time, she loves problem-solving in STEM, research, dancing, investing, engaging in business, swimming, and playing with her dog.
Laya Sunkara
Founder
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Laya is a junior at The Harker School. She has been studying Spanish since elementary school and loves learning and teaching others about the language and culture of Spanish-speaking countries. In her free time, Laya enjoys genetics research, investing, baking, singing, spending time with her friends and family, and writing poetry.
Luz Beatriz Vasquez Martinez
Director of Media Initiatives
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Luz Beatriz Vasquez Martinez is a junior at Westmont High School. She is from El Salvador. She hopes to pursue a career in nursing and learn more English since her first language is Spanish. She is excited to share with others about her culture and the traditions of her country.
Naili Martinez
Director of Media Initiatives
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Naili Martinez is a junior at Westmont High School. She was born and raised in San Jose, but her parents are both immigrants from Mexico. She is currently looking forward to joining the Marines or studying criminology and forensics science. Especially with everything going on right now, she feels it is important for everyone to learn Spanish. Her goal is to share the unique perspective of growing up with a Mexican culture, with Spanish as her first language.
Our Values
Provide unparalleled
Spanish education
Discover culture and build bridges across community
Empower learners to reach
their own stars