On a perfect day, the world is aglow, With whispers of wonder, it begins to show. The sun rises softly, painting the dawn, In hues of gold, a tranquil spawn. The breeze, a gentle caress, whispers through trees, Carrying scents of blossoms, carried on the breeze. Birds sing their melodies, a symphony so sweet, As nature's canvas unfolds at our feet. Fields of green stretch out far and wide, Inviting us to wander, to explore with pride. Each step a dance, each breath a song, As we journey through the day, nothing goes wrong. In meadows bathed in sunlight's embrace, We find solace and peace in this open space. Picnics spread beneath the azure sky, As laughter and love soar, reaching high. Mountains rise majestically in the distance, Their peaks kissed by clouds in a divine existence. We climb their heights, our spirits taking flight, In the beauty of nature, we find our light. As day transitions to night's embrace, Stars twinkle above, a celestial grace. Bonfires blaze, casting shadows tall, As we share stories and dreams, one and all. On this perfect day, time seems to slow, As we savor each moment, letting our hearts grow. For in the beauty of this world we find, A perfect day, a treasure of the mind. On a perfect day, when the world is aglow, Nature's beauty in full bloom, a radiant show. The sun rises gently, painting the sky, With hues of gold and pink, it catches the eye. Birds sing their songs, a melodious tune, As flowers bloom beneath the sun's warm boon. The air is crisp, with a hint of spring, As life awakens, on this perfect day we sing. We stroll through meadows, bathed in light, Each step a dance, pure delight. The scent of blossoms fills the air, As we wander without a care. Mountains loom in the distance, majestic and grand, Inviting us to explore, to roam the land. We climb their heights, our spirits soar, In awe of the world, forevermore. By babbling brooks, we pause to rest, Their waters clear, a tranquil nest. We dip our toes, feeling the cool embrace, Of nature's wonders, in this sacred space. Picnics spread beneath the open sky, As laughter fills the air, reaching high. Friends and family gathered near, Hearts full of joy, without a fear. As day turns to night, the stars emerge, A celestial dance, a cosmic surge. We gather 'round fires, under the moon's soft light, Sharing stories and dreams, until morning's sight. On this perfect day, time seems to stand still, As we embrace each moment, with goodwill. For in the beauty of the world we see, The magic of life, forever free.

Being a first generation immigrant and the oldest in the family has definitely shaped my journey. Moving to a new country at the age six was quite an adventure. It was challenging adapting to a new culture, language, and environment. At the time diversity and inclusivity wasn’t as big as it now. Everywhere I went I always felt like the odd one out but as time went on society began to change for the better. Being black and Muslim certainly did not help my situation in the small town of Sioux City Iowa. It was not always comfortable going out back then, people would always glare at me and my family as if we were a different entity brought down to earth from some extraterrestrial civilization. Going to school was also an experience. Academically schools in America were easier but it wasn’t easy to fit in socially. Kids being kids always had questions about my appearance. They would ask me questions like“why do you have that thing wrapped around your head?” and “why are your lips so big and purple?”. The most outrageous one I will never forget is “why are your gums so dark?”Now that I think about as I got older kids were just ignorant and curious, but they’ve grown up to be educated. As I got older, I've had to take on a lot of responsibilities and be a role model for my siblings. With my parents working I had to put aside any extracurricular activities to take care of my four siblings. Beginning my freshmen year of high school I’ve had to pick them up from school, take them home, and feed them until my parents got home from work. I’ve also had to take them religion classes everyday after school as well as the weekends. My mom having to work night shift, I was in charge of making dinner and preparing my dad’s lunch for him to take to work the next day. On top of all that I worked part time on the weekends. Through all this, I managed to have a 3.8 GPA and part take in student council as well as a freshmen mentor program. It hasn't always been easy, but I'm proud of how far I've come. All to say it’s been an incredible opportunity for growth and learning. Embracing new experiences and making connections with people from different backgrounds has enriched my life in many ways. It’s given me a broader perspective and a strong sense of resilience. As for my plans to make a difference, I want to inspire other immigrant youth by sharing my story and providing guidance. I believe that by empowering others and promoting inclusivity, we can create a more compassionate and understanding world. Growing up in Ethiopia, it pains me to see the challenges my fellow Ethiopians face, from poverty to lack of access to education and healthcare. That's why I'm determined to make a difference. My immigrant background has instilled in me a strong work ethic and a unique perspective. I understand the challenges faced by individuals and families who have to navigate a new country and culture. This empathy fuels my drive to create opportunities and support those in need. Through my journey, I've come to realize that making a difference is not just about providing immediate support, but also about fostering long-term growth.Together, I can build a brighter future for Ethiopia, one filled with hope, opportunity, and prosperity. I am confident that I can turn my dreams into reality and make a lasting difference in Ethiopia.