Cordero Holmes

Cordero Holmes is a Phoenix native who has roots in the city that go back several generations. He is an enrolled member of Tohono O’odham Nation and a proud community member of the Buckeye Road area. 

What makes Cordero’s story so interesting is that he is the epitome of change and growth. Cordero was sentenced to prison for 10 ½  years at the age of 20 years old, and since his release has been motivated to cause change.

He has worked with the Computing Alliance for Hispanic Serving Institutions out of the University of Texas El Paso, was a student voice on the Maricopa Council on Black American Affairs within the Maricopa Community College District, and was a member of Arizona Department of Education’s Indian Education Advisory Council where he worked with other Native American community leaders and advises Arizona’s Superintendent of Education about policies regarding Indigenous children. 

In addition to these things, Mr. Holmes also visits the Durango Juvenile facility often to speak to the young people, assists the unhoused population within The Zone with food and clothes, and is featured in a PBS documentary produced by Roadtrip Nation titled Being Free where he advocates for women and men currently incarcerated. 

Cordero has developed a love for humanity that has sparked a commitment for racial equity and equality. His courage to persevere through adversity is why he is an exceptional leader, not only for the youth and formerly incarcerated, but for all people who desire to maximize their fullest potential and impact those around them.