Meet the new wave of winemakers sponsored by “Stay Rooted in California” – a scholarship program developed by The Roots Fund and Naked Wines
“I want to be a part of something bigger.”
Luis Cendejas, UC Davis Winemaking student,
“Stay Rooted” Scholarship Recipient
Naked Wines and The Roots Fund are proud to support Luis Cendejas – one of eight recipients of the “Stay Rooted” Scholarship in 2020-2021.
Growing up in Napa Valley, Cendejas was able to see the wine industry “up-close” – and it inspired him to pursue a future in winemaking. “I’ve been lucky enough to spend time in both the vineyard and winery,” Cendejas said, acknowledging it was all a part of the experience growing up in Napa. “I was surrounded by the wine industry.”
Now in the undergraduate Viticulture and Enology program at UC Davis, Luis is using his scholarship funding to focus on school. “I’m honored and excited,” he said. “I want to be part of something bigger than myself – I’m hopeful to one day become a winemaker.”
“The Roots Fund has made me realize there are more people like me trying to make it in the wine industry,” he continued. “It’s given people hope and support in a world so filled with doubt.”
About our partner: The Roots Fund was created to empower communities of color by providing resources and financial support through educational scholarships, wine education, mentorship, and job placement. Naked has pledged a 5-year commitment to The Roots Fund and the advancement of the BIPOC community in wine.