By: Ana Gonzalez, Director of Marketing
September 9, 2025
Category: community
From Backpacks to Big Dreams: Mama Lela’s House and Nelson Estevez Inspire IAL Scholars
The first days of school are filled with energy, anticipation, and the promise of new opportunities. This year, our middle school Trailblazers started their journey with more than fresh notebooks and sharpened pencils—they began with a reminder that their community believes in them.
Thanks to Mama Lela’s House, a nonprofit founded by Nelson Estevez, each student received a brand-new backpack to carry them into the year ahead during student orientation week. While a backpack may seem simple, it represents so much more: preparation, opportunity, and the belief that every child deserves to begin the year with confidence.
Nelson, who was born and raised in Inwood, is an actor, filmmaker, producer, entrepreneur, and former collegiate athlete. He currently plays a Secret Service agent on Tyler Perry’s hit show The Oval. Despite his success on screen and in business, Nelson’s roots remain firmly in the community that shaped him—making this gift especially meaningful.
“This is the community that raised me, and through Mama Lela’s House”, Nelson shared. “I want our students to know they are seen, supported, and capable of achieving anything they set their minds to.”
In addition to the backbacks, Mama Lela’s House also made monetary contributions to our Performing Arts and Athletic Departments, further enriching student life and opportunities.
Nelson’s journey—from our very own neighborhood to film sets and national television—is a powerful example for our scholars. His presence reminded students that resilience, discipline, and courage open doors to limitless possibilities.
“When a visible example of success is possible, it enhances the ability to dream, to vision cast, to plan,” says Director of Athletics Jason Marchena. “Nelson provides that visible example and his support through Mama Lela’s House shows he did not forget his roots!”
Mama Lela’s House’s generosity aligns with our mission at Inwood Academy: to empower students to become agents for change through community-focused leadership, character development, and college preparedness.
To our families, students, and staff—thank you for welcoming this moment of community partnership. Together, we are reminding our scholars that they carry more than books on their shoulders. They carry the strength, hope, and pride of Inwood.
