When I think of Black Excellence, the first thing that comes to mind is servant leadership. Many historical accomplishments, movements, and changes that Black people spearheaded came from servant leadership. From Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela on the end of segregation to Ida B. Wells and Mary Chruch Terrell advocating for women to vote. For me, servant leadership is one of my best attributes. I enjoy doing the work to accomplish a goal. Often, the idea of serving and being a leader means different things. However, they are connected. A leader hears more than the problems of the people they work with. They hear the needs, complaints, and frustrations that occur. To understand these issues, a leader has to be close to people who understand the community they are working with. Up close, I have seen how others were open to telling me about their experiences as we worked on a project. They would express their opinions on specific issues, and we would collaborate on solutions. It has happened when volunteering at my church youth ministry or reporting on the UH CoogTV news station. Many traits of servant leadership integrate with other aspects known as Black Excellence. I am surrounded by people with more experience and wisdom when I serve. Their advice has taught me so much, and I enjoy learning how to improve myself and my skills. In addition, serving others has curated my resolve to complete a task. Despite the challenges and hardships that might come, the results make the work worth it. In the end, many people benefit from the results. Having worked with the people I’m in, we are working together on something we worked hard for. Countless experiences of determination and grit have helped me thrive in my goals, and I can use examples of how I didn’t give up and reached what I desired in the end. I have learned that servant leadership is a valuable trait for Black Excellence. As a result, I have become more driven to help others while understanding their perspectives. While student leadership is one of my best traits, I could be more daring to take risks. Often, I overthink the outcome of a hypothetical scenario instead of being in the present moment, which has limited the opportunities I have offered. With counseling and help, I realized that I tend to magnify problems that are out of my control. To work on this problem, I am learning to be more strategic about what I can manage. On a practical level, I have become more intentional with my calendar. I mark down what assignments are due from the beginning of every semester. It is a tremendous aid as I know what to expect and can plan for any event, organization, or job that I’m in. Should anything unexpected come my way, I can see if I have the time or if I have to decline the offer. While this idea seems mundane, I have seen the positive impacts in my life. I have had less stress and more energy to follow my passions, and I have found ways to intentionally plan for what I believe are my priorities. An additional benefit of having a calendar is taking action sooner. Physically seeing when a class assignment is due has helped me strategize how to accomplish other goals on time. With a date in mind, I plan when to complete each task, consider how much time it will take, and motivate myself to see it through. Some of the tasks I’ve done before had a short time frame, while others took longer than expected. Having a time frame in mind is helpful when taking risks. Another goal I’ve found helpful when deciding on a calculated task is finding the personal motive—my reason why helps me know if the risk feels personally right or wrong. I will decline if the risk is not for me or reflects my goals. On the other hand, if the risk matches my goals and boundaries, I will accept it. This decision has influenced my educational journey, from applying to journalism as a major to enrolling at the University of Houston as my university. Having these boundaries has given me more control over what I can manage. It has helped me discover what risks I want to take and which I can turn down. While taking risks isn’t my strongest attribute, I have seen progress. With time, I hope to feel more comfortable taking risks and confident with my choices. Every day is an opportunity to uplift my community while achieving my goals. I still have much to learn about embodying the traits of Black Excellence, but I will continue to strive to improve myself for my sake and the community that raised me.

My passion for community service came from the church ministry during my youth. There, I learned the profound impact of empathy and understanding and how actions rather than words can be monumental to an individual and a community. Through the years, my church has done multiple events within our community. Whether it was a school drive for families who couldn’t afford school supplies or catering to families who didn’t have power, my church has found ways to aid those in need. In those times, I had a first-hand experience of learning to see people more than to see their problems. Often, we would talk with the people during events, and they would talk about their experiences, dreams, and how much support they needed. These conversations challenged my ideals and gave me a profound gratitude for my circumstances as I learned how the shifts of life can devastate a person. From those experiences, I knew that to see people for their humanity, conversations led to bringing change in a community. I now often ask the people I meet about themselves, their philosophies, and their backgrounds. When it comes to impacting a community, my church taught me to appreciate every interaction as the solutions are available if I’m willing to listen. Meeting a need can take multiple forms if one takes the initiative. Watching my church send money or donate canned goods taught me that there are various ways to meet a cause; it takes a collective effort from the community to reach the need. Before, it was hard to believe how seemingly small contributions mattered. Over time, I have learned that the intention was more meaningful than complaining over what I couldn’t afford to give. Now, when I give, I look for why I contribute and see how the people benefit more than what I couldn’t do. Creativity can influence how a person serves their community. When people think of volunteering or community service, handing out food, or donating clothes, they often feel that there aren't many ways to give. My church allowed for creativity in its projects, whether allowing the youth to make cards for donations or collaborating with local businesses to support a city-wide event. Looking back, my church coached me on using the available resources and my talents to create solutions. With that knowledge in mind, I have used my love for media to bring awareness to my community's events and uplift their achievements. With the help of my church, I have been able to use my interests in media and news to enroll in a journalism career where I learn how to support my community by bringing attention to present problems. My church influenced the way I see service and community. It has taught me how invaluable it is to support the people around me and how to empathize. As life continues, I will keep their teachings and contribute to any cause I am a part of.

Having a different outlook on life, a different perspective on identity, and being authentically genuine is difficult in a world filled with fake personas. In the digital world, hiding behind a mask to gain peer recognition is more accessible than being seen as an outcast and discarded. When people are authentically themselves, they have the freedom to be their most authentic selves and gain the respect of others. To me, that is what success is—helping people have the space and platform to be themselves and have the platforms that encourage others to do the same. The Redefining Victory Scholarship is not just a desire but a necessity for me to achieve my goal, as it provides the financial support that people like me need to help others. As a child, it wasn't easy to be myself. People called me weird because I loved to read books and was from a different country. As the oldest, I cared for my brother when my parents worked, studied as nurses, or slept late. While they gave me the support I needed, I navigated my new world independently with little help. It was challenging and often depressing as many media platforms poorly portray immigrant children. What helped me acclimate was the help from my friends, teachers, and church members, who were willing to explain and show me the way they lived their lives. They supported my family when needed, celebrated our accomplishments, and were willing to include us in their holiday traditions. I am deeply grateful for the acceptance and support I received from my community. My friends, teachers, and church members never judged me for my lack of knowledge about American culture or the questions I asked about living in the US. They embraced my Kenyan heritage while helping me adopt traits considered American. This acceptance and support were instrumental in helping me accept my identity as an American and an immigrant and in living as authentically as possible. It was in deep contrast to what I was seeing around my community. Many choose to hide aspects of themselves or are ignored by those with the necessary resources. While it was often a means of survival, I learned that many were unhappy as the parts that they played were draining and didn’t reflect their true nature, regardless of how successful they appeared to be. Many people who seemed strange and quirky were content in their circumstances, even when ridiculed by the masses. As time passed, I realized that living authentically was the only thing that mattered, and there needed to be platforms that celebrated those who were bold enough to do so on media platforms. In a world that celebrates monetary success, it is easy to lose one's self-identity. People can mask around the money earned, the property bought, and praise from others. While the recognition is satisfactory, it is felting and short-lived. Worse, society has conditioned us to maintain appearances; the lack of acceptance makes it difficult for influential people to feel comfortable showing their passions, compelling the public to hide themselves. So when celebrities like Megan Stallion share her interest in anime, regardless of her popularity in the music genre, or Serena Williams creates fashion statements when she competes, it’s fresh air as they shift the narrative of unashamed authenticity. Seeing those who can ignore criticism and succeed in their respective field is the grafting sight, which is the success I want. The Redefining Victory Scholarship is vital in supporting my dream of rephrasing the concept of success. While many platforms invest in diversity and inclusion, adequate coverage still needs improvement. As a journalist and someone who has lived in a space lacking resources, I can investigate unorthodox stories of people doing good within their community that have tangible proof of change. To reach that goal, I need to obtain my degree in journalism. Unfortunately, with the rise of inflation and the constant growth of tuition, paying for my classes is a continuous thought. In addition, journalism and the media industry are highly competitive in terms of acceptance. Regardless of the circumstances, aid for students like me, such as this committee, provides the necessary relief. With the Redefining Victory Scholarship funding my tuition fees, I can spend more time focusing on my studies to earn my degree, which will prepare me for the competitive role of journalism and media. The lift of my financial burden can help me focus on opportunities that require hands-on experience, and I can concentrate on depicting success and the various people who can maintain it in their lives—by extension, living in my view of success in seeing others thrive in platforms that celebrate their authenticity.

Two tests from different classes are due one week from now, a group project presentation needs to be submitted, and during all the turmoil, there’s a party I promised my friend I would go to. Everything feels overwhelming and constricting mentally and physically; it seems as if there’s little space to breathe. Anxiety has been an experience I am intimately aware of and has been detrimental to my overall well-being. My anxiety usually occurs when I start to overthink a scenario, typically during classwork or interactions with others. The pressure to accomplish multiple tasks makes it difficult to choose an assignment. In my mind, it seems there’s little time to complete everything orderly. With the pressure to complete everything while time slips by the second, I’m left in a jittery state. I cannot focus on one task at a time; my heart runs a thousand miles a minute, and staying in place seems impossible. Similarly, interacting with people who feel like strangers puts me in unease. I’m unable to detect how an interaction would go or misinterpret a social cue another person gives for something different. This challenge has warped how I would present myself in front of others, formal or informal. The idea of opposing an idea or stating opinions different from others would terrify me, and I would keep quiet in most conversations. I would only contribute if it were in a group project or to answer questions in a conversation that was for me. My battle with anxiety was depleting and harmful to my overall health. What’s more, it drained any desire to live as authentically as possible as I lived in fear of facing rejection. To combat this, I decided to start writing. Through verbalizing my thoughts, I could prioritize what mattered at the moment and better communicate my expressions to other people. When I enrolled at the University of Houston, I was able to sign up for therapy. The counseling sessions were vital as they gave me practical tools to handle multitasking on assignments and personal relationships with my peers. Over time, I could set the necessary boundaries that benefited me. It helped me regain my voice as I had control of my life. With time, therapy, and articulating how I feel, I have been able to handle my anxiety and fuel it for the better. As a university student, a degree matters to me as it proves the hard work required to gain one and opens up opportunities. Growing up, my parents had to find ways to make our household thrive while they worked late shifts or spent the entire day studying for nursing school. My parents earned their associate's degree through the years, and my mom became a registered nurse. These moments were tangible, as we could save money, move into a house, buy the cars my parents wanted, and even plan a cruise vacation for my senior graduation. Seeing how my parents improved our family’s living standards through education taught me that earning a degree will significantly benefit those around me. Living in their position, I see how attaining my degree will open doors for my journalism career. I know that the work to gain it will be extraneous, but if I can combat my anxiety to live the healthy life I dreamed of, I can achieve the degree that matters to me.

Doctor. Lawyer. Engineer. For any immigrant child, those are the only career options afforded to them by their parents. To have a career plan that differs from any of these options is controversial for many people, and the children who choose this path face a challenging journey. Thankfully, as a college student pursuing journalism, I’m equipped with the tools necessary to face this issue as my life has prepared me for this moment. Before my high school graduation, my parents and I discussed my career path. They explained how my choice was unexpected to them, and they understood where the idea of journalism came from. In addition, my interests seemed too creative for it to be realistic in supporting myself as an adult. While they will ultimately help my choice, they wonder how I can live sufficiently in a competitive, unstable, competitive career. The conversation was heartbreaking as I knew my parents wouldn’t fully agree with my choice, even with their support. It reminded me of my constant struggle since age five and how my parents viewed what was the best future for me. Our ideas on what that looks like and have debated this subject for as long as I can remember. As disparaging as that realization was, I was prepared for this response as I had dealt with this. As a child, I faced much criticism from my peers. It would amaze other students that I was a high achiever in my class or that I acted differently from them because of where I came from. Over time, I learned to trust myself as I knew I was talented. The skills I earned came from dedication, the sacrifices I took to explore the options presented to me, and the drive to have a better life compared to how I lived. For the past 14 years of living in America, I have learned that the immigrant stereotypes attached to me didn’t define me as a person. It motivated me to speak on behalf of children who relate to my experience. I knew that there was little representation for many minority groups, and the immigrants in those groups were severely unprotected. I discovered a difference between being African and Black in America. While both groups share the same skin color, their life experience and culture are opposites. Unfortunately, the media portrays these people as uneducated, dangerous, and impoverished. Since the media is where information and entertainment thrive in society, the stereotypes create a demeaning and toxic environment that makes it challenging for children to aspire to live the life of their dreams as they do not have examples to follow. Because I know what it is like to live in a world where I couldn’t find role models who looked like me, I want to help the next generation have the people to inspire them through journalism. I can bring the representation in spaces lacking it and handle the setbacks that come with them. As devastated as I was when my parents told me they disagreed with my career choice, I trusted in my resolve. I faced opposition in choosing the right decision before. If anything, it motivated me to pursue my dream—not only for my sake but for every immigrant fighting for their dreams to flourish despite their problems.

Many manga series adapt to anime form, from the makings of Dragon Ball and Bleach to the current Jujust Kaisen and Black Clover series. While many manga adaptations have been changed well into anime series, Demon Slayer is one of my favorites. When a brother’s only hope is to save his only sister from execution as a demon, his journey expands to others who fight against the oppressive bullying of the demon lord and his minions. Everyone who fights has their reasons; some of the worst monsters are not what they appear to be, and kindness comes in setting boundaries of what is right. Tangiro Kamado and his sister Nezuko embark on a journey to change Nezuko’s demon state to that of a human. Their cause is rare as no demon has ever achieved such a goal, and many doubt it’s possible, but not deterred, the two siblings pursue their mission. The series shows how each sibling fights to stay together, Nezuko fights against the urge to eat humans to maintain her humanity, and how Tangiro becomes a stronger fighter while maintaining his morals with every opponent he faces. Over time, the other demon slayers trust the two siblings and see them as reliable in ending Muzan's reign of terror and saving many innocent humans from facing the horrors they endured because of him. In contrast, each demon is as despicable as their master. They spread fear, haunt the lives of survivors, and live for their selfish agendas. It’s understandable to villainize them when introduced, but by their defeat, the demons recognize the humanity they lost. The backstories explain why they were monsters, but one can understand how their tragedies shaped that mentality. By the end of the series, I felt compassion towards each character while acknowledging that everyone had to take accountability for their part. When the Magna shifted to the anime space, Ufotable did an incredible job. The scenes aligned with the manga so well with the source material; they had breathtaking visuals, vivid fight scenes, and emotional moments. What’s more, each arc accurately portrayed the main characters highlighted. From the Unwavering Resolve Arc to the Hashira Training Arc, I understood each character with a new outlook. What's more, the fight scenes enhanced each character’s ideology. The fights had a purpose, and the anime illustrated how they progressed the story. With each battle, I was addicted as I wondered how the show planned to envision the outcome. By the time each combat ended, I cheered for the protagonists while mourning every demise I witnessed. As a continuing series, Demon Slayer continues to amaze me in a way most series can’t do for me. It taught me that I can confront those who purposely harm others while learning to understand their motives. There is power in accountability and proving myself to those who doubt my dreams while supporting others striving to achieve a similar goal for their reasons. While I might never wield a Katana to fight an Upper-Rank Demon for the sake of humanity, I can find inspiration to find my unique purpose and give it to others. Demon Slayer is more than a book series that translates to a fantastic show; it’s a story that inspires others to find hope amid darkness.

According to the Pew Research Center and the United States Census Bureau, in 2022, there were 45.3 million black people and immigrants in the United States, which equals 27.4% of the country's population. As a child, I felt like an outsider as I was Black, but I was not born in this country. Instead, I immigrated from Kenya when I was five. Through time, I learned that being Black was multifaceted and that I could identify with both minority groups. I gladly accepted both identities, embraced their similarities and differences, and how they molded me today. Black people in America and Africa share many values. For instance, they are both family-oriented. When one person accomplishes a goal, it favors the community, as they have put their time, effort, and sacrifices to help that individual. In times of crisis, families come together to support those in need. They will go out of their way to ensure the distressed are cared for. Another trait they share is the spirit of hospitality. Because of a strong sense of community, both groups go out of their way to guarantee that their guests are well-adjusted and comfortable. Whether visiting a home or receiving advice on approaching a new location, the generous spirit for others comes in many forms. Alternatively, both groups have dealt with horrific atrocities and misunderstandings. From colonization to forced enslavement, Black and African people understand how prejudice and generalization negatively impact them. The stereotypes are misleading and damaging, limiting the majority of the group as they characterize a few. For instance, both peoples have a variety of tribes, beliefs, and lifestyles that are different. Saying all Africans enjoy spicy food or have loud personalities because of a specific region is similar to saying all Black people enjoy fried food or rap music. Despite the biases both groups face, they live as authentically as possible. By being themselves, they change narratives and give platforms to those underrepresented. Of my 19 years of living, 14 have been in the United States while occasionally visiting Kenya. At first, it was challenging to know who I was as I was conflicted about how many traits I identified within either category. After much research and living, I embraced my immigrant traits while adopting my American lifestyle. Spending my time balancing the two worlds, I realized that there were many people like me. People who have multiple personalities that seem to conflict with each other and find it difficult to distinguish who they are. This discovery led me to journalism for underrepresented people, especially those who do not have the platform to speak for themselves. The media has so much power over how a group of people is perceived. When it correctly portrays a group of people, many benefit from it and gain opportunities that weren’t present before. Majoring in journalism is a path for me because the privilege of living in a different country while maintaining the traditions of my home country allows me to bring a different outlook that is needed. I have the personal experience to understand the dichotomy of a person’s life while being open to learning from them. Likewise, as a minority, I know where many people come from and want to allow them to tell their stories. Thanks to my identity as an African American, I want to give back to both of my communities and help the next generation learn how incredible their uniqueness is.

In a world filled with diverse people, ideas, cultures, and perspectives, there is a belief that one culture is the standard everyone follows, the dominant rule everyone should abide by. The only way to break the mold of being single-minded and open up to others is by traveling and stepping outside the comfort zone to grow fully as an individual. Traveling for me has taught me how different people can teach me life lessons that I wouldn’t know, and it showed me that there are many similarities that we have in common. When I moved to America from Kenya, everything was foreign to me. I discovered that the United States is a diverse country with multifaceted attributes in race, ethnicity, political ideals, and regionalism. In this country, each state had customs that were familiar to its people but appeared weird to those living elsewhere. Similarly, when I visited my home country, many people would see me as an American more than a Kenyan. People assumed that I lived a very wealthy lifestyle compared to them or that I didn’t understand how they lived. These experiences taught me to let go of the judgemental ideas I’ve had with the people I meet and to ask questions on topics I didn’t know about previously. Living in a different country and going through different international airports to see my relatives made me realize that the world was bigger than me. With my exposure to traveling, I became interested in learning another language, Spanish. I knew what it was like not knowing my native language and how difficult it was for others to understand me. Living in Texas, I knew Spanish was the second dominant language spoken and decided to learn how to say it. This desire taught me about the lives of many Hispanic people, how rich and distinct many of the countries are, and how similar their history was to my culture. With time, I improved my Spanish to communicate with the tour guides when I traveled to Cozumel, Mexico. The trip inspired me to continue my education at the University of Houston and apply for a study abroad program in a Latin American country to live with the people who spoke the language and learn their way of life. Traveling has enlightened me about how different and similar people are. By venturing outside my comfort zone, I have learned to appreciate cultural differences as they make a person. Traveling has proved that knowledge can come from anywhere if I accept it, and it can lower the levels of hate and bigotry as one has to put oneself in the lives of someone else. I hope travel is the norm in my life and is accessible to many people, as it can bring perspectives and solutions that didn’t exist before.

I’m a sophomore student pursuing journalism to bring representation to underrepresented people in the media. This scholarship is financial aid and a lifeline for me and my parents, who are struggling to pay off my tuition. Financial hardships for a better life are not a foreign concept to me. I grew up as a Kenyan American immigrant. My parents worked as nurses daily to financially support our family while studying at night to get their certificates. Their goal was to ensure that my brother and I had everything we needed to flourish and expand our knowledge. They managed to raise us and pay for our education, the bills, and the mortgage while working with the little they had. As a result of their investment in me and my contribution to my education, I have been able to enroll in the University of Houston and am pursuing a degree in journalism. To give back to the sacrifices they made while pursuing my dream career, the Nyadollie Scholarship will help me lift my parents' burden of paying for my education, allowing them to focus on using their money to fulfill their dreams. This scholarship is beneficial as it supports those who want to change their community. As a child, it was hard to feel seen in the media as an immigrant, a black person, and a woman. The many facets that embodied my life could have been explained better or as a joke. To find the heroes that looked like me, I had to search for them. When I found people like Trevor Noah, Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong'o, Megan Thee Stallion, and many other celebrities who looked like me, I saw opportunities I didn’t know existed. These people showed how proud they were to be their authentic selves and change their respective industries, and what’s more, they inspired me to dream grander. When I graduated, I knew that I wanted to encourage other minorities to find heroes who represented them as well, which led me to photojournalism. Many beauty standards come from the media, from fashion and makeup styles to body image and hairstyles. Like the entertainment industry, the beauty industry dictates how people see themselves. The problem is that many beauty standards cater to the majority groups, whether with fair skin or a slim waist. Many minority groups do not follow the mainstream of beauty and feel passed over. As a photojournalist, I aspire to bridge the gap for the underrepresented. By reporting stories and illustrating the people written, I want to help others be in the spotlight and impact their communities. With more people presented in the culture, many kids can see how their stories are validated and respected. Not only that, but it’ll also encourage them to continue to create the world they want to see. While I still have a long way to go, I know I can make that reality happen with the help of my family and organizations like the Nyadollie Scholarship.

College for me means taking the education to open doors that will benefit me, my family, and my community. As I’m forging the path to journalism, a college education will allow me to gain the knowledge and experience I need to bring representation to underrepresented people. As someone who knows what it’s like to be misunderstood by false information, I want to help others learn more about their heritage by bringing rarely-covered stories. For Kenyan American immigrants, a college education is a coveted value, as many see it as an opportunity to succeed and have a better life. My parents lived in the countryside with many siblings and few resources. To advance their lives and help their families, they took it upon themselves to study and improve their education. By the time my brother and I were born, their degrees had placed our family in a middle-class life filled with the benefits of a comfortable living. When applications for American visas came around, my parents applied and won. At the start of 2010, my family moved to America, and we began our journey. For the next 14 years, my parents would find ways to enroll my brother and me in some part of an after-school group. These programs allowed us to expand our knowledge, and we began to have opportunities to expand our experience. With the schooling I received, I knew that I wanted to pursue a degree in journalism. Journalism is an outlet that allows for topics and conversations to be started and explored. When problems arise or unrest, the media allows the people to be informed. The problem is the media tends to hide the concerns of many underrepresented communities. As a child, there were many problems I faced, and I didn’t know how to handle them as a Black person, an immigrant, or even a woman. I had to search for the answers and representation I sought. I learned that conversations are formed by who narrates a story first. Those conversations are usually buried or not discussed enough for people like me. As a reporter, I can bridge the gap for those neglected by society so that there’s a chance to receive the support needed. I intended to accomplish this goal through media. The media is everywhere and used in many aspects of life. Most of the information consumed comes from a media platform, whether it’s social media, podcasts, a document page, etc. Many news networks, influencers, and even politicians have successfully used the media to spread their agenda to the masses. As a reporter, I can spread information to the public differently. In addition to attending the University of Houston to learn the different fields of journalism, I also use other platforms to practice reaching an audience. With the years I have left in my college journey, I am refining my skills and learning from professionals about how they can succeed. By the time I graduate, I want an established platform that grows over time. College education means giving a person a chance to better their and their family's lives. It allows someone to pursue their dreams while honoring the path paved by the people who supported them. As people forage their futures by learning the necessary tools for their jobs, they also inspire the people from their community. It’s an opportunity for me to continue with what my parents started and create a legacy for those with similar backgrounds.

Throughout high school, I aspired to be part of the Junior Varsity orchestra in my class. This goal came with many overwhelming setbacks and hurdles, but it was well-earned. My years of achieving and maintaining this status have taught me leadership qualities such as perseverance and determination to see a dream through. My class was for beginners in my first year. As I moved into middle school, my teacher believed I needed more time and practice before I advanced to any classes. While there, I went to every practice and took my viola home to work on the techniques taught. As the year approached its end, I saw overall progress in my performance. It was so profound that there were conversations for me to compete in the solo competition of the University Interscholastic League. Unfortunately, the 2020 pandemic permanently ended those dreams when the district announced that any school event was closed for the rest of the year. For the rest of my first year and most of my sophomore year, I took my classes virtually to prevent the spread of the virus as my parents worked as nurses who often treated patients who caught COVID-19. The only times my parents would allow me to go to school were for tests required to be taken at school, to receive material for a project, and to practice from my orchestra class. I often recorded myself, emailed my teacher the practice results, and asked what I needed to improve. My parents allowed me to attend after-school rehearsals to receive feedback in person, and I learned how the rest of the ensemble sounded. Through the months of my sophomore year, my performance improved, and my teacher was impressed by the tenacity I had given the circumstances. When the time came for auditions, I used all the advice I received to advance to the JV Orchestra in my junior year. I was able to play more complex music and prepare to compete in the UIL competition in the spring. For the next year, I was juggling taking multiple advanced classes and practicing my viola to maintain the position I had fought for. While it wasn’t easy, I not only balanced time to prioritize my interests but also succeeded in both. By the end of my senior year, I had stayed in the JV orchestra. I was grateful that I had not been dropped to a low-level class, as the competition to remain was fierce. Many people who didn’t advance were let go and moved into another class. The class had even more complex music, and the competition was even more formidable. Throughout the year, I learned fundamentals I hadn’t learned before and pushed myself to work harder to keep up. Often, it was straining, and I had to remind myself why I wanted the position. I wanted to challenge myself and see the full extent of excellence I could achieve if I tried. Even when I met the goal, there was still a fight to hold on. When I graduated, I was proud that I had stayed in the JV orchestra, as it taught me the meaning of leadership. Seeing a dream through takes effort. In a culture that uses instant results, people loathe the idea of effort and time. When I stayed in the JV orchestra, I proved that grit was a powerful tool to have as a leader. My actions showed me how leaders take longer to accomplish their desires. The results demonstrated that my work had benefits and that others could follow that path to achieve their goals.

Amid the lockdown in the 2020 pandemic, I enrolled in advanced world history during the summer break for my sophomore year. This course was by far the most challenging class I had taken then. It took everything in me to complete it, with little time to study and even less time to cope with the stress. When I took advanced World History, the class was entirely virtual. I hadn't taken a virtual class before and didn't know that the student learned the material independently. What's worse, the assignments compiled on top of each other. Every day, an assignment or a test to study for was due. There was little time to take a break, to breathe. Halfway through the course, I knew I was way over my head. My grades were average, and I couldn’t comprehend the assignments. Every day was an inch closer to having a severe breakdown. I knew a change was needed to complete the summer course while simultaneously passing. I searched the Internet for sources and YouTube videos that addressed my learning. The flashcards and tutorials were a tremendous help as I began to understand what I was learning. Not only that, but my grades began to rise as a result. By the time the summer had finished, I had completed advanced world history with a passing grade. That course prepared me for what my sophomore year would look like. My parents, nurses who treated patients with coronavirus, were at risk of being contagious. Since my parents came home after their shifts, my brother and I had to take our classes virtually as a safety precaution. The only exception to that rule was going to the school to take state-wide tests or get some material needed for an assignment. Thanks to the summer course I took months ago, I learned how to handle this shift in schooling. I found ways to take breaks to prevent boredom from being in my room for hours. With my limited free time, I could do chores, make lunch, or work on hobbies that I was working on, like crocheting. These breaks were important to me as I could breathe from the strain of looking at a screen or listening to the lectures taught. When I had questions or didn’t understand the assignments, I connected with my teachers to get answers. I knew I needed someone to explain the curriculum, but I couldn’t do it in person due to the circumstances. With Zoom and conference periods, I received personal time to understand the course better. Finding ways to ask for help allowed me to pass my classes in an environment that was not natural for me. From what I learned that summer, I learned how to be creative in unfamiliar settings, and I advise those facing a similar problem to follow that example. My advice for anyone adjusting to virtual learning is that they have everything they need to excel. They need to think of their circumstances differently to find the solution they seek. Thinking of how to solve problems with available supplies makes the conflict achievable. Moreover, it teaches a person how to be prepared should they encounter that same problem. With practice, determination, and consistency, one can adjust to an environment that initially didn’t comply with them.

Growing up, there was a paradox of adults expecting great things from me based on how well I performed in my classes while my peers bullied me for being an immigrant. It was conflicting to find myself amid these two words. In the end, I became familiar with anxiety before I knew what it was. I constantly felt pressure to reach the standards my family, community, teachers, and ultimately myself placed on me. As a result, I had a difficult time finding the strength to be my authentic self without the influence of others. The idea of being different was terrifying to me as it was a bad thing. My peers viewed me as too intelligent for where I came from, and everything I did attributed to an African quirk. On the other hand, many adults complimented my achievements and told me how I carried myself, which was commendable. With these conflicting ideals, I had to censor myself not to confirm a perception I thought someone had of me. I also always felt anxious and plagued with every interaction in a loop, wondering if I could have done things differently. As a result, I would feel the chronic effects of anxiety. I would feel a drill pounding in my heart in public spaces; my breath inside of me seemed to shorten, and I couldn’t focus much on anything. It wasn’t until I found my voice that my anxiety reigned. When I realized that I was holding myself back to please others, I was making myself miserable. If I wanted to live genuinely, I had to prioritize myself. In the end, many people would not understand me, but I would find people willing to love me for myself. Finding my voice freed me from the burden of pleasing people, and I felt my body relax. Now, I regulate my anxiety by permitting myself to be authentic. As a result, I want to give back to my younger self by helping others know that their voices matter. I found it hard to find people who looked like me in the media. From the news to entertainment, it was rare to see people with similar backgrounds communicate like me or accomplish impossible goals. I knew that I wanted to change the narratives of people who seemed different, but to do that, I needed a degree in journalism. In my culture, education is integral to a person’s success. The most successful people have a degree, giving them opportunities that benefit their communities. My degree is a door to not only being exposed to different people but also learning how to communicate better with others. I know how important it is to portray a narrative to give many people proper representation properly. While I have a talent for storytelling and relatable experiences, there is more to communication. With a degree in journalism, I’m learning the different communication styles in media. I’m learning how to think of other accessible platforms and how to reach and maintain audiences. Additionally, colleges have students with opinions that are polar opposite to mine. These contrasting views help me understand others and learn how to empathize with them. My degree is an accumulation of all my work and the wisdom I have earned through the years. My degree matters to me because I want to help many people who have had to change their lives to please others. I want them to know they can be themselves and be proud to show their authenticity.

With tests piled on top of each other, projects spontaneously tasked, and grade averages changing as the weather, my mental health is always on the brink. As a first-generation African American student, the pressure to succeed does not make my life any easier. To maintain what matters to me, my mental health is vital. Without it, I couldn’t handle the pressure in a healthy way that benefitted me. Balancing my school life has been a problem for as long as I can remember. With advanced classes, extracurricular activities, and enrolling in programs based on education, my whole life involved some schooling. While it benefited me in my classes, it was hard to prioritize the things that mattered to me that weren’t school-based; I often neglected my physical health to finish assignments, and it wasn't easy to focus on anything I was doing. What was worse, I developed high anxiety and stress if I underperformed in any class that I was in. I knew I needed to change how I cared for myself by the time I reached high school. That’s when I realized I needed to take care of my mental health. Throughout high school, I found ways to take breaks, set up my sleep schedule, and learn better study strategies for my classes. I saw how this shift positively affected me and felt more like myself. This change showed how my mental health was vital as a student, and every semester, I made sure to maintain this state. While challenges do come, and I often feel pressured, I can finish my assignments excellently by giving myself time and energy to rest. Not only that, but I'm also giving myself opportunities to explore options that I would have overlooked if I had been stressed and burnt out. Seeing how taking care of my mental well-being has tremendously helped me, I often advise my fellow peers to do the same. Many of my friends come from a similar background to mine. They grew up in a household that believed that achieving outstanding grades was the epitome of success, but they neglected to find a balance to live a healthy life. It, in turn, created an environment of perpetual anxiety, depression, and heartache over academic results. My friends were invested when I mentioned how I passed my classes while sustaining my mentality. What's more, they even took my advice. Slowly, I saw how they became less tired, more engaged, and more successful when caring for themselves. Now, we check and support each other when things become tense or when school becomes overwhelming. Outside of my friends, I always tell those who come to me for advice to take care of themselves. Not only that, but I also gave them my personal experience and practical steps on how to do so. By talking to the younger students about mental health and why it’s integral to a person, I advocate for many to invest in themselves. Whether they come from the same African community as me or if I meet them outside of school. I advocate for mental health to see others succeed in their dreams while flourishing in their authentic selves.

I'm Kenyan American, and when it comes to my culture and the general belief in many African communities, mental health is taboo. Many do not believe a person's mental well-being is essential or that someone does not have their life together. From experience, I know this thinking is wrong, and over time, I’ve learned how to prioritize my mental health. It’s more than breaking a mold ingrained in my mindset; it’s a way to ensure I live in the moment. For as long as I can remember, there was an unspoken pressure for me to be an outstanding student. Whether that was from my behavior or my class results, I needed to go above and beyond my peers to feel accomplished. It didn’t help that I was the oldest in my family or that my parents constantly worked financially to provide for the household. With their constant dedication to providing my brother and me a better life and from knowing at a young age that I was a role model, it wasn't easy to find myself in the midst of it. I didn’t feel like what I did mattered enough for me to care, and I was only living to please the people who had mattered to me. For a long time, it felt like my life was a routine repeated in a mundane cycle. It was hard to be in the present as I would quickly get bored and feel isolated because I couldn’t tell anyone how I felt. Before the 2020 pandemic quarantined the world, I knew I needed help. The fight to be present and feeling like I mattered for being myself was getting out of hand, and I knew I couldn’t continue living that life. That’s when I started writing about my life. I learned that by writing, I could freely express myself regarding my thoughts, events, and whatever emotions I felt. By writing, I started to feel grounded in my skin and how I contributed to my life. Often, my writing would be messy and spontaneous based on how I saw the events that had occurred. I realized that I allowed myself to be imperfect and have an outlet to be authentically me. This release form became my lifeline as I saw how my life benefited from it. Through the years, I’ve taken steps to maintain my mental health and heal the unspoken scars that are not addressed. Whether that was finding a therapist who challenged me to question why sometimes I dissociate or having tough conversations with my parents on how living in the affected our family dynamic. Through the years, I’ve taken steps to maintain my mental health and heal the unspoken scars that are not addressed. Whether that was finding a therapist who challenged me to question why sometimes I dissociate or having tough conversations with my parents on how living in the affected our family dynamic. The process hasn’t been smooth, but the results remind me why I maintain my well-being. I do this to remind myself that I matter for being myself without sacrificing the parts of me that matter. In the end, taking care of my mental health has shown me I need to pay attention to how I’m doing and how I can grow to be the person I want to be.

There is often pressure to agree with others at the expense of opposing the crowd and facing the backlash. Since time, human beings have wanted to fit in and appease those in power to gain favor and not be subjected to ridicule. In the workplace, or when faced with a person in power, it’s easier to appease the crowd than to stand for what is right. However, when one can stand by their beliefs and be proven right, regardless of criticism, it's a testament to the courage and conviction of individuals like Micaiah. His story, as depicted in First Kings twenty-two, verses fifteen through twenty-five, in the Bible and the Torah, is a beacon of inspiration, showing that even in the face of severe consequences, standing up for one's beliefs is not only possible but necessary. When he arrived, the king asked him, “Micaiah, shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or not?” “Attack and be victorious,” he answered, “for the Lord will give it into the king’s hand.” The king said to him, “How many times must I make you swear to tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?” Then Micaiah answered, “I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd, and the Lord said, ‘These people have no master. Let each one go home in peace.’” The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “Didn’t I tell you that he never prophesies anything good about me, but only bad?” Micaiah continued, “Therefore hear the word of the Lord: I saw the Lord sitting on his throne with all the multitudes of heaven standing around him on his right and on his left. And the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab into attacking Ramoth Gilead and going to his death there?’ “One suggested this, and another that. Finally, a spirit came forward, stood before the Lord and said, ‘I will entice him.’ “‘By what means?’ the Lord asked. “‘I will go out and be a deceiving spirit in the mouths of all his prophets,’ he said. “‘You will succeed in enticing him,’ said the Lord. ‘Go and do it.’“So now the Lord has put a deceiving spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of yours. The Lord has decreed disaster for you.” Then Zedekiah son of Kenaanah went up and slapped Micaiah in the face. “Which way did the spirit from the Lord go when he went from me to speak to you?” he asked. Micaiah replied, “You will find out on the day you go to hide in an inner room.” (First Kings twenty-two, verses fifteen through twenty-five, the New International Version Bible) The writer vividly portrays the deep-rooted hatred towards the prophet Micaiah within the kingdom of Israel. His reputation was such that he could provoke the king’s anger by challenging the king's actions, which he believed were not in line with the principles of his ancestors. It contrasted the advisors around Ahab, who often told the king what he wanted to hear. This paragraph highlights the difference between the prophets and Micaiah, as one of the men pressured Micaiah to say to the king that his mandate was the right choice for him to make. Micaiah opposes this claim and says he will not compromise his integrity. Moreover, he tells the king that his fate will not end if he proceeds with his plan. The crowd ridicules him and tells him that he does not have the wisdom to talk with the king, but with time, he is not only proven right. Micaiah shows that speaking the truth is very controversial and that many are unwilling to accept the correction they receive. In a time where one could be punished or killed for seemingly saying something that would affront nobility on a political and religious side, being bold was rare. On the other hand, the people who speak the truth have the needed insight that can benefit the society around them. Thousands of years later, civilization is still learning this lesson. In a world where cancel culture is prevalent, there’s a fear of not joining the bandwagon of beliefs and ideas. Whether it’s about social problems or political ideology, to have a different idea is seen as being the villain that everyone despises. However, as humans, correction and opposition are needed to develop and grow for the better. The author proves that having an echo chamber of people who agree all the time deteriorates any potential to expand their skills, talents, and areas of leadership. Ultimately, it leaves a space for stagnation that will eventually end a person, brand, or country. The writer of this passage also shows how people with power and influence are not above being corrected. Regardless of status, religion, title, or lifestyle, human beings can make decisions that will not result well. Unfortunately, many people will encourage them to make the wrong choice as they would instead enjoy the benefits of being associated. Catering to those in power is highly corrupted. However, when people outside the system bring in their thoughts and opinions, they are not fools, but individuals with the power to influence change. It's a reminder that those in power need honest and transparent feedback, and it’s the responsibility of the audience to provide it, even if it's challenging. The author of this story is a warning to the public. Everyone is held accountable to each other, regardless of where they stand in society. Those in positions of power need people who will treat them as individuals and can be transparent with them, from their ideas to their vulnerability. This way, they have a safe space to be their genuine selves and have a well-rounded outlook they need to lead others for the better. At the same time, those who aren’t in power influence do impact society. Their thoughts and opinions are valid, and what they believe in can change the accepted norms. They have a voice and power to leverage and challenge the systems.

I want to learn to speak Spanish to converse with any Spanish speaker. I’ve been with many people who speak Spanish, and as an aspiring journalist, I want to make it easier for the people interviewed. My desire drove me to apply for AP Spanish Literature during my senior year in high school. That was one of the most challenging moments in my life, and it taught me to persevere despite the disadvantages. When I applied to the class, I knew it would be different from my other classes. For starters, Spanish is the third language that I’m learning. I can understand the general gist of what a person is saying, but my responses are not as fluent as theirs. At times, it takes me a while before I can form a complete answer to a question asked. However, the grammar has many mistakes. When it came to the class, we read many pieces of literature throughout history. Knowing what the literature was about would take me much longer than most classmates, so I was always left behind in class. The other problem was I couldn’t comprehend what my classmates were discussing. Most of my classmates had a different dialect than what I used to, making it hard to know what they were saying. Time seemed to stretch for an eternity in that class, and as the minutes ticked by, I could only see words forming but never fully comprehend what they meant. Every day, it filled me with a sense of dread about what the class would do for the day, so I needed to put in the work. I would first listen to an audio version to get a first impression and have it translated into English; then, I would annotate the work in Spanish to understand it independently. If what the class was talking about still needed to be clarified, I would go to my friends and ask them to explain what the teacher had discussed. This tedious process often took time, but it was advantageous. I was able to comprehend the course. The literature started to come to life as things began to make sense. They became personal and not a far-off story. What we read would mention the history of Latin America. Their history, culture, and societal mentality were fascinating to learn, and they helped me realize how similar Latin Americans are to my African culture. We came from many hardships; there have been times when we had to stand up for ourselves against those who oppressed us and showed pride in our heritage. By the end of the school year, I was able to pass the class and AP test. While I was proud of my grade, I was even prouder of myself for being able to finish a course that I found difficult to achieve. Taking AP Spanish Literature was challenging. There were many times when I considered why I took the course while contemplating whether I could switch, but I stayed. Now, I've been able to understand those who speak Spanish. While working to be a fluent speaker, I have gained the respect of those I meet who speak Spanish and learned from their advice. It’s been amazing to see myself growing, and I know that I’m making progress towards achieving my goal of being a Spanish speaker every day. As a journalist, I know I can speak to others on their terms and bridge a gap, usually in a language barrier.

My educational and career goal is to use storytelling as a powerful tool to improve minority representation. Sharing our unique experiences and perspectives can challenge stereotypes and foster greater understanding. The William A. Stuart Dream Scholarship will play a pivotal role in this journey, relieving the financial burden and allowing me to dedicate myself fully to this cause. I grew up as an African immigrant my entire life. It was a challenge to adjust to this country as I needed to learn how to look and behave. I didn’t fit the stereotype of an African who came from a dust-covered village or that I was unable to comprehend lessons taught to my class. As I grew older, I learned that what most of my peers had learned came from the media via the stories reported and the entertainment released. If I wanted to give a better view of my experiences, I had to be able to tell my own stories. I needed an education that gave me the resources to make that happen. The drive has allowed me to pursue my degree in journalism. With my degree, I’m learning how to better communicate to the public with the people I interact with. I learned how to navigate through tough conversations, how to bring awareness to the needs of others, and how to confront the problems that are plaguing the community. With the skills I’m learning, I can be able to help others who have been misunderstood and severely misrepresented in the media. It’s a way to learn and continue learning as our countries change and grow while aiming towards my goal. As I strive to earn my degree, the financial aspect is a significant challenge. The William A. Stuart Dream scholarship is an aid, significantly reducing my family's tuition burden. My parents, dedicated nurses, have made numerous sacrifices to support our family. They manage my tuition, bills, mortgage, and high school Varsity Band expenses. These responsibilities, coupled with the ever-increasing inflation, have heavily strained them. While I know they don’t want me to be concerned with their struggles, I can see how it affects them when they think I’m not looking. I want them to be able to support me and my dreams without having to sacrifice their other responsibilities. This scholarship will help me give back to my parents for all they do for me while allowing them to focus on their other responsibilities. I know where I’m at because of my dedication. As I continue my journey in higher education, I hope to learn and help others learn about the events not adequately addressed in our media programs. I hope the generation after me knows they can learn about their heritage and be whoever they want without stereotypes limiting them. Not only that, I hope that organizations such as this one continue to support people who are achieving the same thing.

I give my mom all the credit in the world for who I am today. Since the day I was born, she has been the biggest supporter in helping me to be myself and encouraging me to pursue my dreams. I know that if it weren’t for her love and sacrifice, I wouldn’t be on the path that I’m currently in. Since my family moved to the US, my mother saw me growing up in a new country. It wasn't easy as I would be bullied for not being Black enough all my life and handling the rejection that I wasn't what they expected an African to be. My mother would always tell me that I was more than other people said I was and that regardless of what I did, she was proud of me for being her daughter. She has no idea how influential her words impacted me in my adolescence. Her encouragement shaped the narrative I gave myself, and I learned to be more confident in my identity. As the years went by, my mother encouraged me to find my authenticity and to push past the limitations placed on me. With her support, I could be more confident in who I am, see my skills and talents, and grow to be the person I wanted to be. My mom was present for all my life's moments. Some of those occasions were difficult for her to endure as she had to reconcile her traditional views of what a woman should be with my desire to do what was unorthodox in our culture. She also had to find ways to connect with me on specific stages in life that she wasn't used to, but she tried. She was ready to help me with the problems I faced and celebrated the accomplishments I had achieved. Thanks to her, I was able to have a substantial value of who I am and stay faithful to what I believe in. For me, my mother is the embodiment of what it means to be a strong Black woman. She is the person who I want to be most in life, and her qualities are what I want to pass on to others as a legacy. As I continue to grow in the journey of life, I want to impact others as my mother did in being gracious with how I treat everyone, generous with what I have, and able to see the best in others when they can not see it for themselves.

I want to learn to speak Spanish to the point where I can converse with any Spanish speaker. My desire drove me to apply for AP Spanish Literature during my senior year in high school. That was one of the most challenging moments in my life that taught me to endure despite the disadvantages. When I applied to the class, I knew it would be different from my other classes. For starters, Spanish isn’t my most robust language. I can understand the general gist of what a person is saying, but my responses are not as fluent as theirs. At times, it takes me a while before I can form a complete answer to a question asked. However, the grammar has many mistakes. When it came to the class, we read many pieces of literature throughout history. Knowing what the literature was about would take me much longer than most classmates, so I was always left behind in class. The other problem was I couldn’t comprehend what my classmates were discussing. Most of my classmates had a different dialect than what I used to, making it hard to know what they were saying. Time seemed to stretch for an eternity in that class, and as the minutes ticked by, I could only see words forming but never fully comprehend what they meant. Every day, it filled me with a sense of dread about what the class would do for the day, so I needed to put in the work. I would first listen to an audio version to get a first impression and have it translated into English; then, I would annotate the work in Spanish to understand it independently. If what the class was talking about still needed to be clarified, I would go to my friends and ask them to explain what the teacher had discussed. This tedious process often took time, but it was advantageous. I was able to comprehend the course. The literature started to come to life as things began to make sense. They became personal and not a far-off story. What we read would mention the history of Latin America. We would learn what many people lived through in different periods. Their history, culture, and societal mentality were fascinating to learn. It helped me realize how similar Latin Americans are to my African culture. We came from many hardships; there have been times when we had to stand up for ourselves against those who oppressed us and showed pride in our heritage. It made me respect the people who hail from Latin American countries. Taking AP Spanish Literature was a challenging feat. It demanded all my time, energy, and effort to be constantly present in class. There were many times when I considered why I took the course while contemplating if I could switch, but I stayed. It was worth it. I managed to pass the course and AP test, but that wasn't the reward. Learning about a new world by experiencing it in a new language was impactful. Since then, I've been able to understand those who speak Spanish. While I'm still not a fluent speaker, I have gained the respect of those I meet who speak Spanish and learned from them.

If there’s one show that anyone should watch that Nextlix has, it’s the One Piece live-action. This show is for everyone, whether you are a long-time fan of the anime or if you just heard about it. It’s a story that anyone can fall in love with, and you will not be disappointed for binge-watching the show religiously. One-Piece is a standard anime everyone in the community knows about, but it is so vast and long that it seems intimidating even to try. The live-action is a starter kit for those who want to try the anime but need help knowing where to start, as it summarizes the beginning of the series while portraying it fascinatingly and excitingly. For long-time fans, the show did justice to those who truly loved the series. Everyone who contributed to the show displayed the One Piece themes that were accurate, true, and valuable to the creator and the fans. The live-action was special to everyone watching because the creator, Eiichiro Oda, was actively involved in the production. Many feel offended when they see their favorite literature turned into a money grab, and there is little consideration of the intentionality put into the story. For the creator to announce that he had a hand in every decision made, every character chosen, and every plot line told, he’s showing the fans his care for them and wants to give them the best experience possible for something he made. When watching the show, you can tell there was a plan by Oda and the creators to make the live-action faithful to other adaptations while having its flare that makes it unique. Each episode tells its own story while contributing to the overarching plotline. It works perfectly, as the audience can only partially predict where the story is going and is enamored to learn more. Even those who have watched the anime or read the manga can never expect how the show covers specific plots or character developments. Simultaneously, the crucial scenes make the build-up pay well. For example, a character had been held captive by a particular group for their entire life in exchange for saving their village. The character seems closed off and guarded, making them seem untrustworthy and dangerous. At the same time, you can tell that there was more to that person than they were showing and that they craved freedom. Small changes like that significantly impacted the show for the better. It proved that the show would be faithful to the source material while showing that it could hold its adaptation. It set a standard of excellence for the anime world that hadn’t existed before. The great thing about the live-action is that more seasons are coming out of the show. Currently, there’s confirmation of the second season in the works. Anyone who loved the first season can expect more of their favorite characters and see what will happen in the story. For the entire audience, this show proved that it is possible to bring a unique genre into the limelight and do it the justice it deserves.

I have always had a difficult time appreciating the things I excel at. I often felt like I was too prideful or selfish to achieve anything. My mindset changed when I competed in a UIL Regional competition for Journalism Feature Writing in 2021. I had no idea what to expect when I was sitting in the computer room. I knew the competition was very competitive. To win, the story written had to be very emotional and empowering at the same time. Even though I felt unprepared for this competition, I convinced myself to try. I kept telling myself I had the skills necessary to succeed. The worst thing that could happen was not advancing. Taking deep breaths, I wrote the most compelling story I could write. After writing the essay, I left the competition not caring about the results. Two weeks later, I was told that I had achieved second place. I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news. I didn't think I actually made it to second place; after all, I was competing against 64 other schools. When the shock finally settled down, a realization dawned on me. I learned that I had a gift for writing. More than that, I achieved one of the highest positions in the competition without preparation. My only problem was that I had to believe in myself to achieve anything I wanted. It changed how I saw myself and started appreciating my gifts and talents. It made a massive difference for me and my mental health through the years. I started to realize that my mentality regarding my self-worth was severely flawed. At first, it didn’t seem like a big concern to address. I was positive many people had a similar problem, so what was the point of telling someone? That changed when I had a doctor’s appointment in my junior year. We had a conversation about her story as an immigrant child. Like me, she grew up with the weight of being an educated child, having perfect scores, and being strong enough to handle any issue. This constant pressure shaped her to prioritize her work before anything else. Over time, it was challenging to appreciate herself when she didn't meet a certain standard. Hearing her story made me feel seen, and I wanted to know if I could change my mindset. After talking with the doctor, I decided to make one of the most significant decisions of my life. I got help from a therapist. It was not easy to admit. Being an African, the idea of mental struggles is unheard of. Many see mental health as an imaginary disease that can go away over time. Having to admit I needed help took telling my parents and having to search for a therapist. When with the slight uncertainty of wondering if I genuinely wanted therapy, my parents were gracious enough to help me without condemnation or patronizing. It took graduating high school and entering my first year in college to find the right therapist for me. Within that time of waiting, I would write about my experiences and what I was going through. Journaling allowed me to express myself to my therapist in a way that helped me gain the tools I needed to heal when I met the therapist. Opening up to what I was facing or how I grew up was challenging. It took work and giving myself the grace to heal from the traumas I had on my identity properly. Anytime I had doubts or wanted to give up, I reminded myself that I had accomplished an impossible goal by doing the work. If I could win a competition I had little faith in; I could confront the roots of where my insecurities lay and heal for the sake of others. Now, I want to help others who are in my position. My gift of writing and going to therapy has shown me that other people are in the position that I was in. The difference between me and them is that they haven’t found a way to express what they’re experiencing. To give back to my younger self, I want to help others find themselves in the stories told. Winning that UIL Competition showed me that I could write gripping stories for the judges who read them. Not only that, but I can use that talent for an audience that is looking for new stories. To accomplish that goal, I am taking classes on how to be a journalist while writing scholarship essays and doing creative writing outside of class. Looking back, I wouldn't have realized I needed therapy or found my passion in life if it hadn't been for the UIL Regional Competition for Journalism Feature Writing. I realized I could confront a complex problem by advancing in something I thought needed to be more attainable. The experience brought a new awareness to the issues I wouldn't deal with that heavily affected me. I learned to get better for myself. When I’m in a healthy place, I can help others improve themselves.

Out of all the Spider-Man movies, Shameik Moore's portrayal of Miles Morales is my favorite character on the big screen. While he has appeared in the aminated films Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse and Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse, his character has influenced my life. I was new to the Spider-Man universe when Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse was released in theaters. I wasn’t privy to it being an adaptation of the Marvel comics or that this was one of many well-written, interconnected, and compelling franchises. I was invested in seeing a person of color going through a new world that he hadn’t signed up for or knew what he was doing while upholding the potential his family saw. I related to what Miles was going through, as that had been my life story ever since I moved to the US. Watching Miles process the changes in his life reminded me of navigating being an immigrant in a new country. Often, I didn’t feel like I was enough or that I could live up to the expectations my parents wanted for me. The anxiety I had made me doubt the talents I had and how impactful I could be to others by being who I authentically am. Miles brilliantly portrayed my experience and the experiences of other people of color in finding our path when we’re uncertain of what we should do. When the second movie was released in theaters, I was ecstatic to see it as I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed. Not only did the film not disappoint, but it also spoke to me personally. Seeing Miles find his identity and realize he had a different experience from other Spider-people resonated with me as a college student. I felt his struggle with Miguel as I have been confronted by those who didn’t see that there was more to life than the traumas they experienced. Instead of following the route that others had been through, Miles said, “Everyone keeps telling me how my story is supposed to go. Sorry, I'm doing my own thing.” I felt that statement as I came to grips with being myself as a college student. I knew the tremendous weight that came from not following the status quo and the morals instilled in me. Even though this version of Spider-Man is recent from other well-established series, I love the animated journey of Miles Morales and his voice actor. With them, I felt seen in a way I had never been in a movie. It also helps to know the actor himself comes from Black immigrant parents; his voice acting comes from lived experiences he has dealt with. With the continuation of the series, I can’t wait to see how Miles grows and develops in his path and how he wants to be.

As a first-generation Kenyan-American, I'm grateful for many opportunities in life. From the love of my parents to the support of my local church, I was given a chance to grow into the person I am today despite the challenges I faced. To give back to those who consistently poured into me, I’m actively giving back in many ways. My family moved to the US, and we didn’t know many people who lived there. To make matters worse, my parents had to work multiple shifts as nurses and go to college while raising my brother and me. However, they still found ways to be present in our lives. My parents would help us with our homework, create walks around the neighborhood as a family bonding moment, and were open to discussing our questions. We were also fortunate to find a church near where we lived. The people there were gracious in taking us in and making us feel at home. When my parents were busy, my church would take my brother and me to events, attend our school ceremonies, and give us things we needed but didn’t ask for. My experiences with my parents and church greatly impacted how I saw community, as it felt personal and genuine to me in how people treated us. Now, I help give back to my parents and church by volunteering in church while attending university. All my parents wanted for me and my brother was to get an education in our career. To them, it was worth all the sacrifices they had endured. At the same time, my church has grown throughout the years. With the growth, there has been a need for people in various spots, like the youth program, the welcome committee, the media production, etc. As a college student, I still see opportunities to help as I help co-operate with my brother in the media production in our church. It involves setting up the messages, checking on the light and sound system, and running the live stream. When the children’s church is larger than usual, I help the teachers teach the youth or give a hand in passing out the items needed for class. For me, it’s not only a way of giving back to those who have been influential in my life, but it’s also practice for what I want to do in my career after college. I’m studying to be a journalist for underrepresented communities. By going to higher learning and helping my church, I’m learning how to communicate with others, gather vital intel for the community, and spread information that will benefit those directly impacted. It’s a full-circle experience of helping others in need using the skills and tools I learned from what I’ve experienced. When I graduate, I hope to improve the lives of those who are going through problems in life and need help from the people around them.

My family came to America from Kenya when I was young. Growing up, I didn’t see many people who looked like me or shared my experiences. As an adult, I want to give back to those who feel the same way by sharing the stories of underrepresented people as a journalist. As a child, it was rare to see any African people who came from a similar background as me that were outside my house. It was challenging to explain to others what it was like being an African living in America as I was learning it for myself. The released shows and movies didn’t help much either, as they reinstilled the image of what Africans looked like in the rural, desolate deserts with a lack of resources to support themselves. It was isolating to be myself, and I had to intentionally look for people who looked like me to show that I wasn’t alone. I started feeling seen when I found people like Trevor Noah, Lupita Nyong'o, and Zendaya. These people not only looked like me, but they were able to share their experiences and stories of what it was like being different from others. For me, this changed the narrative that I had in my mind of what people of color should look like or act. I started to be my true self in front of people and feel proud of where I came from. Not only that, it gave me hope to want to support others who have felt neglected or not represented well. In my senior year of high school, I wanted to be a journalist. To be a journalist means to shine the light on stories that matter to people and can help those in need. I’ve seen how the news can change the lives of those reported on, and I believe there needs to be more coverage for minorities. As a way to give back to my community of future immigrants and ethnic people, I want to show that they are more than the stigma based on the stereotypes of their people. I also want to show that they are not alone and that there are role models who not only look like them but also came from where they are and were able to change for the better. With my journalism degree, I want to be the change I had to fight to see in my life and community.

My life has been based on faith for as long as I can remember. From moving to the USA from Kenya to paying off my tuition, faith and the church have supported my family and me. My family moved to the States when I was five. My parents were on their own as they had to start their lives again, and they didn’t know anyone to help them adjust to a new country. Through the years, my parents found ways to support our family. They would work or go to school for nursing and raise my brother and me simultaneously. Their constant sacrifice for us showed that they saw more than the circumstances. While living in a shabby apartment for ten years, we saw many breakthroughs in our lives. We would visit our family in Kenya for the winter break; we could give back to our relatives, and my brother and I were able to accomplish academic advancements in our classes. When we moved to our dream home, we started to see the fruits of our labors. My parents became financially stable enough for us to start going on trips together, we got to meet people who came from our cultural community, and I received many scholarships from the schools I wanted to go to. One thing my parents and church taught me was faith. I would see things that weren’t explainable. One time, an aunt of mine had been charged with committing a fireable crime in her workplace, and the judge acquitted her after years of petitioning or seeing people who had stage four cancer be declared healed from it. Personally, faith had saved me from a mental breakdown during the pandemic. During that time, I was going through significant panic attacks. It was hard to focus in school, and I felt constantly depressed all the time. It got to the point that I had an internal crisis. I remember asking if God was truly there or if He was something my parents believed in. When I asked to feel something like Him, I felt a sense of peace that I couldn’t describe. For the rest of my high school life, I would feel that peace wherever I went. It was so beneficial for me as I knew that God was real in my life and that He was there for me. It allowed me to be bolder and more confident with the people I was with, try new things I haven’t experienced, and have opportunities to help others in need in ways I couldn’t do before. This scholarship means so much to me, as it was one meant for me. I’ve seen God answer my prayers of earning scholarships and helping my parents pay my tuition fees, and I believe He’ll do the same for me until my graduation. Seeing our community supporting future believers and encouraging others in their dreams is a blessing. It’s a testament to the goddess God has had in my life. I plan to use it to show others in my shoes that they can’t feel God. I aim to tell others that God can provide for us and truly cares for us and our needs. Sharing with others the experience I felt that day is how I show my faith as a believer and the future I want to live in.

I’m a first-generation Kenyan American. Living in America and visiting Kenya multiple times has given me an identity with both countries that I proudly claim. Before then, I had to battle for my identity as it seemed that neither group fully accepted me because I was different. Growing up, my classmates bullied me about where I was from. Everything I said and did was considered too savage or tamed by my peers. It didn’t help that I visited my home country every two years during the winter break. Anytime we visited our relatives, there was a language barrier that hindered us from having proper communication. We would only talk if there was someone who could translate. I felt isolated as there was an underlying tone that I wasn’t Black enough or African enough in either group. It wasn’t until my family moved to another city that I started to accept who I was. We moved to a suburb that was multicultural with different types of ethnicities. I was able to find people who shared experiences similar to mine. Whether they were children of African parents or children of other races, we related to how difficult it is to find a community that understood what it was like being different in any group we were associated with. Before the pandemic closed down much of the world, my family could visit Kenya for Christmas. I still dealt with the familiar language barrier with many relatives, but I was able to learn my culture from them. From seeing how my relatives lived to travel in different areas of Kenya, I was able to feel my African roots and became proud of my background. During the pandemic, I did a lot of research about what it meant to be African American. I learned African Americans repeatedly overcame adversity and created much of what we know of today's culture. Learning the history of African Americans allowed me to see the similarities we share and understand the struggles that African Americans still face today. Being able to learn and accept both cultures has shown me that there was more to what I thought being Black or African meant, just like there was more to me than what people initially thought. I would want to walk in the shoes of Lupita Nyong'o. She is a Keyan-Mexican actress with a renowned history of characters she’s played. Her acting skills have crossed many genres, and she’s versatile in her work. Not only that, she is from two different countries and cultures. As a fellow African, I respect her for her drive, passion, and ability to incorporate her life experiences into what she does. I would want to walk in her shoes to know how she represented her African roots before the Queen of Katwe, and that allowed her to go to more significant projects like Black Panther and later incorporate her African-Mexican roots in Wakanda Forever. For me, it is rare to see someone on a high platform who has a connection to me and is influential in creating representation for future generations. I want to know what she endured to be where she was and learn how to gain the strength to be herself. I find her a model representing what it’s like being from two different places for many people who feel like that, and I want to emulate that and be that model for fellow immigrant children. Whatever I decide to do in life, I want other people to know they can be whoever they want to be without picking a side.

One issue affecting people of color is how we judge the success of fellow minorities. In major and minor ways, we find ways to compare the victories people achieve and discourage others from advancing in their respective industries. I want to address this issue for the better by shedding light on the successes of minority groups. People of color are put against each other in every aspect of life, from academic grades to status in life. As a culture, it’s ingrained in us to question the validity of someone’s success. It’s even more prevalent in social media when you see posts of people degrading others in their achievements or how the responders could have done better if they were in that situation. A real-life example is people of color content creators on social media are often shadowbanned by social platforms or people debating why someone would post an occasion that doesn’t seem necessary. It’s detrimental to many minorities because the criticism doesn’t solve the existing problems; it only creates more problems. When stories of minorities succeeding come out, there’s usually a lack of support from the masses. In the same way, when stories of tragedies come out for minorities, people are quick to join the bandwagon of hate towards the victim before the entire facts come out. We don’t realize that the same people we turn away will end up being the people we need in the future based on how we treat them. Even in the online world, this principle remains true. I want to combat this by doing what Keith Lee does: informing others and bringing awareness. He is known for highlighting small restaurant businesses, especially ones that don’t have many customers. His influence has reached many people in various states and has created positive change for small businesses in the food world. Like him, I want to do that with news information. There is power when information is given to a community to make a change. Social protests during the pandemic and Starbucks losing millions of dollars in 2023 are proof of this. I plan to create a space for positivity for those not in the spotlight. Creating online platforms that encourage positivity consistently allows people to bring their problems so they won’t feel condemned or belittled. It will bring change for minorities in America as they can find like-minded people who want to see what they want to see. By finding strength in numbers, we can find more ways to be aware of what’s happening around us and reach out to those in need. While we change and evolve in the online world and how we communicate, we can create a safe space for those who want to better their lives. It will benefit those in need and the rest of society.

I give my parents all the credit in the world for my educational goals. Since the day I was born, they have been doing the absolute most to ensure I reached my professional goals in journalism. I know that if it weren’t for the support and sacrifice, I wouldn’t be on the path that I’m currently in. When I was five, my family moved to America from Kenya. We lived a comfortable life at the time as my parents were high school teachers. We had everything we needed, but my father knew that there was more he could provide for my brother and me in the future by moving to America. So, he convinced my mother to move to a new country to provide a better educational future for their children. This move had a significant cost for my parents. They both had to not only restart their lives but also change careers. When we moved to the States, my parents had to work as nurses while attending nursing school and raising us. If they were not at work, they slept or studied for an upcoming test. While they worked to make us financially stable, my parents found ways to help us succeed in our classes. Whenever an assignment didn't make sense, or we needed supplies to complete a project, they found a way to make things work. They would never complain and would tell us to call for them when we needed it. Their help allowed my brother and I to be high achievers in primary and secondary schools. In every class we’ve taken, we have been able to be academically affluent and receive honors, sponsorships, and rewards. Our parents were always present for every reward and recognition we received. Their presence impacted me as I knew what it took for them and me to reach those moments. Regarding the career I wanted after high school, I chose an unconventional job: journalism. In many ethnic households, children are taught to be engineers, doctors, lawyers, or teachers. These careers provide an income that can benefit an individual and make the family's status remarkable. While nothing is wrong with any of these jobs, I knew it wasn’t for me. My hardest decision was explaining why I wanted to take a different work field to my parents. To my surprise, my parents were supportive of my decision. There were many conversations about why and how I saw it beneficial, but in the end, they approved and said they would help me in any way they could. During my senior year, my parents encouraged me to study the different types of journalism and see which one suited me, as well as talk to my journalism teacher about her opinions to understand better what journalism entailed. With the research, I could confidently declare what I wanted to major in at university. Currently, my parents are financially supporting me with my tuition. They told me all they wanted me to do was focus on my studies and gain the opportunity to be the best journalist in the field. I can never thank my parents for the love and support they’ve given me. They were there for me in every milestone of my education while finding ways to support our growing family in a foreign country. Whether financial or physical, my parents showed me the support I needed to be who I am today. I know I make them proud every day just like they make me proud by being there for me in every way of my education.

Every book I’ve read has an underlying theme that has stuck with me: accepting your identity and where you come from. From the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson series to the Legacy of Orisha and the Throne of Glass series, the need to find self-acceptance affects the protagonist and their world. Often, the characters are an enigma to their society and suffer the consequences of being different. Over time, society has told these protagonists to conform to their world or accept the responsibilities they never asked for. Instead, they learned they could be themselves and appreciate their origin regardless of other opinions. For me, these were my heroes, as that was my story. They showed me that I can accept where I came from while using my experiences in living in America. Not only that, but being authentic has allowed me to advocate for different people through storytelling in journalism, photography, or writing. This theme has driven me to inspire others to be authentic and do whatever they wish to accomplish in life. My motivation for this goal comes from my identity as an African American. I was raised in America, even though I was born in Kenya. Growing up, I was treated differently by my peers about my culture or what my life experience was like. In America, people were shocked by how intellectual I was or how I could communicate well despite living in another country, while in Kenya, many thought that I had more money than I genuinely had due to how people saw Americans spend money. While neither of these perceptions of me was true, this duality has shown me there is more to someone than others initially present. It took seeing people like Zendaya, Michelle Obama, Taraji P Henson, and so many creative women who changed the narrative of Black women and other minorities through their careers and how they have made it easier to be inclusive in many industries. These women showed me I can use my journalism education to achieve my goal. In today's time, many careers in journalism allow a person to be creative, whether that’s the traditional way, podcasting, blogging, etc. With my education in journalism, I want to bring awareness to groups that are hidden or silently going through hardships. As a minority, I know how the power of awareness can change a group of people for the better, and I want to return the favor to other communities. Bringing awareness to people in need will allow those who wish to pursue their dreams to have more access offered to them. It’ll let the public see the people perceived as different in a way that humanizes them. By being a source to help others write their paths, I’ll be returning the many favors the characters I’ve read about have given me. Which is assisting others to appreciate themselves and make the future they want that will benefit their communities in a way they are proud of.

During the pandemic, Uncle Samuel, a friend of my family, passed away due to health problems outside of COVID-19 during my sophomore year during the lockdown. The news of his passing was devastating as he meant so much to us, and we all thought he was going to make it. His death showed how short life is and how it can come unexpectedly. To us, Samuel was a part of the family. He was there for every significant event in our family’s history, from when my parents met each other for the first time, their marriage, to the birth of my brother and me, and when we went to America from Kenya when I was five. Not only that, he was the one who always greeted us and saw us off whenever we visited Kenya. If there was one thing I was always excited about any time we went to Kenya, it was seeing him and his wife, regardless of what the agenda for the trip was. Before returning to America in January 2020, we had made plans of places we would go to for our next visit as we thought we would see each other again. It made the idea of him passing before my brother and I became adults inconceivable, so it was gut-wrenching when reality gave us a different alternative to what we thought of. My brother and I were in our rooms when our mom knocked on our doors and asked if we were busy. It was strange as our mom never tried to interrupt us during class; even if our class was at home, she never wanted to disrupt us. I instantly knew something was wrong when my mom called us, and her voice sounded grave. She told us that our friend had passed away the previous night at the hospital due to heart complications. The doctors couldn’t do anything as they were handling COVID-19 patients. I had class afterward, and halfway through the class, the realization hit faster than a bucket of ice water dunked on me. The rest of the day was a blur as I processed what the news meant. How could he have died? What will happen to his family? What will our future trips in Kenya look like without him there? He will never see me grow up or have a family. A week later, I accepted the news for what it was while hurting on the inside for all the things we couldn’t do together. By now, I have come to peace with Uncle Samuel no longer living with us by doing what he taught me about the value of life. Like my family, he helped anyone he came in contact with. Whether it was giving money, attending an event, or counseling a person’s problem. To honor his life, I follow his footsteps in helping others in whatever way I can. I try to help when a problem comes or support those who want to pursue their goals in life in whatever way I can. The other lesson he taught me was to be present in life. None of us could have predicted his death, but we could celebrate the moments we did have with him. For him, every event in his life was a lesson he took and appreciated. I learned to enjoy my life and be present in what I’m doing. There are many things out of my control, and that’s ok. How I let it define I will narrate how I will live my life. Like Uncle Samuel, I want to make it worthwhile.

The church has greatly impacted how I serve in my community. From a personal to organizational level, my passion for serving people is traced to my church. From a young age, I was raised by my local church, as they took care of my brother and me when my parents were at work or busy stabilizing our immigrant family. They were there for us when we didn’t have much for school, gave us holiday gifts when we couldn’t have a holiday, and gave us things we needed but never mentioned to anyone. Their compassion for us was genuine, and we knew that they gave to us because they loved us for who we were. This type of love and support shaped how I saw helping others in need. My church taught me to be present for those in need. It usually starts by listening to someone and what they’re going through before physically helping. My church was there for all the significant events I went through in life. From the highest moments to the darkest times, they were present and actively encouraged me to pursue better in my life. In turn, I have done the same for many teens and kids. Many classmates, friends, and relatives have gone through life circumstances and needed me to rant to as a form of release. They would express their grievances and joys, wins and losses, and problems and solutions because they knew I would respect them and give them the space they needed to process what they were going through. It is a form of service as it lets people know that they are seen and valued for who they are and that it’s alright to lean on others. Another core value my church taught me was that service comes in numerous ways. I remember doing food and toy drives, card writing for retirement homes, or garage sales for charity cases. There were many ways our church worked together to help in the community. Sometimes, it would require money; other times, it would require our time and effort. Either way, we had to give something up to meet a want. What it taught me is that service is about intentionality more than it is about what I do. I have found ways to be of service no matter what I do. Whether that has been making thank you letters for my teachers, giving to an organization, or attending a charity event. Regardless of what I do, I aim to do it out of a pure heart. The people in my church instilled and taught necessary lessons that I still use today when it comes to serving. Thanks to them, I find joy in helping others and care for the well-being of others before myself. I can’t thank my church enough for their involvement in my life, and now I want to do the same for others in the community.

For my parents and me, this scholarship will be impactful in ensuring we can keep up with my tuition fees, which will help me find resources that will benefit my journalism career. I want to pursue journalism, which is as competitive as it gets. It becomes more complicated when I am concerned about the financial aspect of higher education. The scholarship will allow me to prioritize the goals that will help me be the best journalist I can be. This scholarship will help me be what I rarely saw for myself. I was bullied for being an intelligent, educated African immigrant as a child. It took a lot of work to see representation by women who looked like me or had a similar experience. Learning about journalists who looked like me tell impactful stories became a dream of mine. Going to college allows me to be what I didn’t see much of. In an educational sense, it’s allowing me to have the resources I need to be the best I can be. This scholarship is a needed resource to help me change the trajectory of my life and the lives of other people who want to see themselves in their future careers. Unfortunately, with the rise of inflation, tuition has become extremely high for college students. It is overwhelming to think of the finances involving school fees as a freshman and the eldest daughter. My parents are my Hyacinth Malcolm, as they have worked multiple shifts as nurses while raising my brother and me. With the income they earned, they had to take care of me and my younger brother in our education, the mortgage of the house, and monthly bills that are consistently present. The cost of college will continue to increase by the time I graduate, and our pattern for paying the tuition will affect them in the future with the responsibilities they already have to carry. In my educational life, I would appreciate it if my parents had the necessary aid in supporting me while supporting the rest of the family. For us, the scholarship will tremendously help take some of the burdens off their shoulders so my parents can ensure I graduate debt-free and be financially stable when I enter the working world. To be a distinguished journalist who can inspire many African and Black girls to pursue their dreams and honor my parents for their work and sacrifice, I must continue dedicating my energy and drive to my education. While that happens, I appreciate scholarships like the Hyacinth Malcolm Memorial Scholarship, which works to help me achieve my goals as they can see the potential in me that I know I have myself.

Recovery for me means coming back from whatever damage a person can go through, whether that’s from trauma, a setback, or a downfall. It’s overcoming our ache and going forward in the future we want to thrive in. As humans, we face many difficulties that hold us back or harm our state of being. Often, it feels like the problems we are facing are immovable, and we are stuck in the pain that we’re in. It makes it difficult to move past the barrier and get better. The idea of being better or having a different outcome seems impossible, but it’s a decision a person has to make for themselves. When a person does decide to change, they begin their recovery process. They change the path they're on and work towards their goals. It could be Serena recovering from an injury and playing the next season or a high school dropout getting their degree in business. Recovery comes in multiple ways, but it boils down to persevering in the worst outcomes and becoming better than you were before. It is not easy by any means, but it is impactful at the end of the road. All a person needs is to keep going and stop once you get where you want to be, not where you are.

My high school journalism teacher had the most significant impact on my journalism journey in college. She could see my potential in the field and encourage me to pursue it while spotting the areas I needed to work on to be the best version of myself and the career I wanted. I signed up for a journalism class in my freshmen year because I needed to complete my course schedule. Other than what I saw from outlets like CNN and Fox News, I didn’t know much about news programs or reporting. When I first entered her class, I knew that it would change my life from then on. What captured my attention was the different people who impacted the course of history through journalism. When I heard of Nellie Bly, I knew I wanted to pursue journalism. Hearing how Nellie instituted herself in a mental hospital to see the horrors women went through and caused a change in mental institutions to what it has now greatly inspired me. I wanted to know of other ways journalists impact our world. I couldn’t thank my journalism teacher enough for teaching our class about Nellie. Another way my teacher changed me was by critiquing my writing style. I knew I was talented in writing, but I didn’t know if I had the potential to make it more than a hobby. When we turned in mock reporting essays, I noticed how much attention my teacher paid to my revisions. She wouldn’t only mention where I excelled, but she pointed out the places I needed to work on. Her critiques challenged me to be better. When it didn’t meet her expectations, I knew there was more to learn, and I had writing habits I needed to change. When I did well, I knew that I was paying attention. The most significant impact she had outside of writing was photography. I didn't know that photography was a part of journalism or that people got paid for their pictures. When she assigned me to do a photo shoot for a sports event, I found a new love in life. I became enthralled with photography and anything involved in it. For all of my years in high school, I signed up for any event that needed a photographer, whether in school or outside. I became so dedicated that I developed a craft in photography. One of the most memorable moments was going to a Gloria Shields Workshop. I met professionals who were where I wanted to be. Learning from them cemented my dream of being a photojournalist. I can’t thank my journalism teacher enough for her contribution to my educational and future career life. She helped me to change and grow outside of what I was used to. She helped me see outside myself and dream of something I never imagined. As a fellow woman, she has helped me see a platform I can use to help younger women.

My passion is photography. I love seeing photos of people, places, and things different from the norm and what people see daily. Photos are living stories of what people want to express, the journey they are going through, or creative space to be themselves when in places where they can’t. Being able to see a story in an image ignites a sense of wonder for me that I can’t explain. I take pictures of any occasion that I find interesting and try to replicate the feeling I had when I took it. Whether it’s a photo of a coffee drink from Starbucks or a picture of an airplane landing at the airport, I will take a photo of what interests me. Unfortunately, affording a professional camera is problematic. Most cameras and camera equipment far exceed the amount I can afford. For example, camera lenses alone are expensive for someone who wants to take photography seriously. Funding the resources on my own is complicated, and my parents are working to provide for my tuition fees and my brother’s high school education, so they can’t provide for me in the way I need them for my craft. I am content with using a phone until I can pay for a professional camera; however, I crave to have a camera to expand my artistic journey. My brain works in tandem with each other to be a visual storyteller. On the right side of my brain, I am intellectual. I consume every piece of media that seems fascinating. I devour historical events, novels, articles, podcasts, and anything that will educate me more about this world. The reason why is because I love understanding more about this society and the people who live in it. I use that side of the brain to create an informative and engaging story. On the left side of my brain, I’m a visual person. I can vividly see what a person is telling me. From childhood memories to a day in the life, I am in the middle of the scene where the speaker is. Anything visually appealing captures my attention immediately. I especially value movie animations, commercials, or eye-catching posts on social media. I aim to write stories that an audience can experience with my characters. I am reaching my goal by using both sides of my brain and the photos I take to illustrate the story visually.

In my immigrant family, I am the eldest child. It often resulted in me navigating American life and as my parents simultaneously learned about this new environment. One of the most significant benefits I received was the advice and counsel from the people close to my family who guided me to where I am now. I am returning the favor by helping others feel noticed and cared for. One of the most significant ways I give back is by being an outlet for people who need to talk to someone. I realized that many people don’t feel seen or heard. I try to be the space to let people vent about their frustrations and thoughts. I don’t always have the answers to their problems, but being there for them is a massive help as their attitude changes. I go the extra mile by constantly checking on them when they’re going through something. Another way I give back is by being present. I know the impact of feeling lonely because my parents would work on events I had in school. It meant the world to me when they showed up. In return, I find ways to be present for others. Whether it's at an event in person or by supporting the work they do, I intentionally show that I care for a person and give them the love they deserve for all their hard work. If I can't be an outlet or be present for others, I tend to give gifts for no reason. Growing up without much, I appreciated it when close friends and family would provide our family gifts without explanation. Often, it would be things that we needed at that time. I love it when I get that opportunity to do the same. Whether it's with money or by making something by myself, I have the intent to make a person’s day. I especially do this when a critical personal occasion is coming for someone I know. Those moments matter as I know that the people I'm giving gifts to are helping them through whatever they are going through. How I want to impact the world is the same way I help others. With my pursuit of journalism, I am helping people feel seen and heard. Whether by making a story or interviewing people who feel underrepresented, I want others to see themselves and know that they can do anything. For me, it's more than giving back to the people who helped me grow; it's changing the life of someone who doesn't know where to go and leading them in the direction they need to go.

I moved from Kenya to America at age five and endured the reality of an anomaly within my community and ethnic group in my educational life. Despite the challenges, I have been able to change the narrative in my life in the same way Malgorzata did in her life. At an early age, I realized there is a difference between being Black and African, even if the two groups look alike. I was questioned about my intelligence based on where I came from, mocked about my economic background, and harassed by many stereotypes by many people who look like me. What made this challenging was that most of my relatives lived in Kenya. It didn’t help that when my family visited Kenya, many of my relatives saw me as someone different from them. They thought I was a privileged child who didn’t understand financial difficulties and was above them and their struggles. My parents were constantly working or going to college to get a nursing degree to provide for us, so they couldn’t teach me much about my culture or hear about the difficulties I had with my classmates. I learned at a young age to stand up for myself in front of whoever I came in contact with. When someone thought less of me, I proved them wrong based on my class results, how I talked about my identity, or how I was not intimidated to confront their biases bluntly. Like Maggie, I became confrontational and proud of who I am and have no problem showing it to others. Another similarity is that we pursue a career based on our passions and supporting fellow women. I want to pursue journalism to give girls who share my experience a voice. I want to help women told they could never fit into a community based on how they were raised or the circumstances outside there that impacted them. I am proof that I’m not to what people think of me or what I can pursue in life, and I want to give that to others. I want to do that by giving voices to women who have been ignored or can’t speak for themselves. In what I report, I can help show that there is more to others than expected and change the lives of others. Maggie helped change the engineering world through her works and inspired those she interacted with. I want to be like her and encourage those in the journalism field. I will need education from experts who came before me to achieve my career goal. I loved learning about an interesting topic or something informative. For journalism, I want to be the best in what I care about and do my work excellently. To do that, I want to learn from those who can take me where I need to be. Like Maggie, I hope to leave a mark that future journalists can follow and change. Maggie gives hope to people like me who had to make a name for herself with what she had to work with. She lived her life to the fullest and created her destiny. She wasn’t afraid to challenge anyone who doubted her. I’m like her as I live to be my own person and change how people see an immigrant woman.

I have loved photography since a young age. It’s more than just art; it’s a story visually told. As a photographer, I have grown to capture special moments in life artistically through a lot of practice, experience, and drive to improve my skills. I began my journey in photography during my first year in high school. I joined the yearbook class because I was a stellar writer and was taught the basics of photography before being sent to photograph a track and field meet. I was extremely nervous. I took photos of what I thought looked interesting and didn’t mess with the settings on the camera for fear of messing it up. When I submitted the photos I took, my class praised how well the images came out despite my lack of experience and that I had a gift for taking photos. From there, I expanded on taking pictures for many school events I could go to, from games and classes to concerts and achievements. The practice gave me an interest that I continued using past high school. By my junior year, I was so talented I was invited to take photos outside school events; I volunteered to be the photographer for a wedding in my church, took pictures for a 50th birthday celebration for a family friend, and was allowed to leave school to photograph our school’s state football game. These experiences gave me a real-world understanding of photography. I learned how to capture a moment no matter where I’m at. To understand my surroundings to find the best angle for a shot. It even gave me experience in how to communicate with other people. For some photos, I had to explicitly describe how I wanted the image to come out to the people I was photographing. It forced me to be out of my comfort zone and be more assertive in presenting myself. The assertiveness allowed me to be bold enough to release my photos online through Instagram. By graduating high school, I knew I wanted to use photography in my career. I aim to tell other people's stories in a way the public can visually experience, and photography accomplishes this goal. The saying “A picture says a thousand words” has been proven accurate many times. When a tragedy occurs in a region, the face of a grief-stricken individual conveys to the audience the severity of a situation without putting it into words. Similarly, the face of a person celebrated for their accomplishment is distinguishable even if the audience doesn’t know the cause of the celebration. I want to be able to do that for many people. I want my art to explain a person’s story before they verbally explain it, to show the audience what words fail to put into paper. Art is everywhere; one needs to know where to look. Similarly, some people have lived an unbelievable life waiting for someone to listen to them. By combining these two traits, I highlight the beauty we have in our world and the people who shape it. I still have a long way to go before I reach my goal, but I know I can fulfill my dream of inspiring others to appreciate those around them for the individuals that they are,

Ever since I was young, I’ve had a standard of excellence. I put it on myself to make the best of any situation. Usually, that comes with a high cost of anticipation, work ethic, and drive to meet my goal, but the reward of my goal makes the journey worth it. My resilience comes from knowing that I proved to myself that I could do the impossible. I have faced a lot of obstacles throughout my life. My family are first-generation African Americans. As the eldest child in an immigrant household, there was a lot that I was responsible for. In my community, my behavior reflected my society, the younger generation, and my upbringing. As chafing as the expectations were, I created my path outside the one placed on me. Through many challenges, I have been able to voice my opinions, needs, and wants that opposed the ideals that I had grown to accept. My reason for this is that I wanted to be my person, show that there was more to me, and offer other people that they could be themselves as well. Academically, I took many higher academic classes that were challenging. They required additional work outside the school, were difficult to understand, and were similar to a collegiate course. These classes were often stressful and mentally straining, but I endured the burden as I knew they would pay off in the future. That was accurate, as I received credits from many of them in my AP classes, and I’ve earned scholarships due to my academics. Besides the advantage of having fewer classes to take or pay for in college, this has been a way to prove myself right. By taking more challenging courses, I’m constantly testing my limits and proving that I can do the impossible. It strengthens my resolve and makes me want to work harder, knowing I can achieve my goals. With my journalism degree, I plan to represent marginalized communities. One thing I learned growing up is that there is a lack of representation for minorities. It’s detrimental as it shows the younger generation they don’t have the future they want. They are placed in a caricature based on what society sets them on. It made it hard to look for people who looked like me or shared part of my story, as anyone who did was the help or an exotic character from a foreign and untamed world. It took watching the Black Panther series, KC Undercover from Disney, and Trevor Noah’s Daily Show to see people who looked like me who lived in a different narrative from the norm. I want to give that back not only to Black People or African immigrants but to all minority people. With my degree, I want to cover those ignored by society. I want to give those people a platform to tell their stories and have a place to advocate for change. If I can provide access to those people, I’ll give back to those who fought to bring me where I am. I’ll be helping the next generation know they can break the mold of their expectations and be who they are. While this goal is no small feat, I know I can achieve this goal. I have been through many obstacles that have made me strong enough to withstand the pressures I face. For the sake of uplifting others, I know I can use journalism to help many underrepresented people despite the challenges I face.

One of my goals as a writer is to jot my experiences daily. Every week, I write about what is happening, my experiences, and how I feel. On top of that, I also make writing a scholarship essay once a week challenging. These practices are essential as they help me improve my writing skills and tell a story that others can connect with. I went through a lot during middle school and didn't know how to process my feelings. I began writing about my day in an unused journal at my house to unpack all my emotions. Over time, it became a habit for me to write about how my day went. This habit became a passion for narrating how my day went in a storylike way. It made expressing myself easier as I could illustrate my life in a way that engaged the people I was talking to. Meanwhile, in my senior year, I learned that there were organizations that gave away scholarships based on the best essay they received. I knew the only way I could receive any scholarships was through my writing. My grades were terrific, but I knew that organizations needed more than a student who was academically passing. They required a student with a reason to earn money over countless other students who didn't have a set defense. I began to write scholarships for different organizations. It wasn't always easy as I had to meet the writing criteria and find ways to answer the prompts to the questions. From writing college essays, I also knew I had to be creative in how I wrote my articles if I was going to gain anyone's attention. While writing about my day or doing scholarship essays was a challenge, some benefits came with it. I became better at targeting my writing. Before, my writing needed to be more coherent and coherent. I began to have a cohesive story by having a habit of writing. I could get to the point of my message in a way that the audience could understand. I noticed this in my classwork as my teachers praised how I wrote a compelling argument or made a moving speech. Not only that, I could target the group I was aiming for in a better way. One of the scholarships I applied to was so impressed by my essay that they awarded me $ 1,000 for my college expenses. I knew the money had come because of all the practice I put in and how it convinced the scholarship committee to grant me the money. One of the books I think everyone should read is "Born A Crime" by Trevor Noah. His story is as endearing as it is humorous. His memoir of his life shows the reality of a segregated nation that he was a part of, but instead of feeling hopeless, he found joy amid apartheid. His story is relatable for those who can relate to his challenges and shows how perspective can change a person. Despite his obstacles, Trevor became a humble man who could entrain hundreds of thousands worldwide. His book explains how it is possible. I believe "Born A Crime" exemplifies what a writer can do. As writers, how we live is just as valuable to our story as how we write it. Our story is its style that no one can copy, and we should be proud of it. We should strive to make ourselves who we are in front of others. "Born A Crime" shows I can be myself while writing. My stories can bring people together and help bring hope to others. As a writer, I want to have meaning, like Trevor did. My writing habits do more than make me a better writer. It has taught me how to present myself to different audiences while staying true to my core. I'm learning to be versatile and compelling in ways I didn't know were possible. I know that by completing my goals, I am becoming more capable of inspiring other writers to do the same with their writing.

In my junior year, I took four AP classes. It was my first time taking any of these classes, but I decided to do this as the benefits outweighed my lack of experience. That led me to many difficult positions in my education that I overcame. Throughout the year, there needed to be more consistency with our teachers as Many were gone due to maternity leave or resigned during the middle of the school year. We were left to study the material without a teacher to educate us. It was a challenge as I learn best by being taught in person. As a solution, I would search for resources that explain the lessons. Whether that was sites like Quizlet or YouTube channels, these outlets helped me pass my classes while comprehending the lessons. Another hurdle I had to overcome was how the assignments were structured. The work given had a specific way of being completed for me to pass. The instructions Often confused me, so I asked my classmates for answers. They had previous experience, so they knew what I was dealing with. With their help, I could submit my work on time and correctly. By the time I took my AP tests, I was jittery as I went to the classroom. My AP tests were about to prove whether I was ready for college. The results were in my favor, as I passed the exams with above-average grades. Not only that, I was awarded a scholarship from my dream university because of my results. My dedication to learning in my classes allowed me to overcome the obstacles that came my way in my junior year and the help that guided me to my success. As I pursue my higher education, I reflect on how I found an answer to solve my problems, and I want to ensure that other students have opportunities. In the same way, I found resources; I want to share them with fellow and younger students. Often, people ask for advice on handling a specific issue they face in their classes, teachers, or counselors. In the end, they find an answer that they are looking for. I plan to continue to be a guide in my education. My education targets helping those in need by providing valuable information to those pursuing goals. I will find the best resources, sites, and brands to encourage students to maximize their potential. I plan to be the type of person who people can talk about their concerns in education, as I will have experienced the same issues as them. If I can not provide an answer, I want to guide them in a direction with what they are looking for. In the way I found help by seeking it in my junior year, I want to give it back to my generation.

I’m a first-generation African American who has lived her whole life proving people wrong about what I’m supposed to be. I have had to live with the reality of being different from the expectations people had of me, and my future career is a reflection of that. My family moved from Kenya to the United States when I was five. I had to navigate adjusting to a different world for a long time. My parents were rarely home as they worked or went to college to improve our financial standings. It left me to raise my brother and I by myself. At school, I was a model student in front of my teachers and peers. My schoolwork represented my character at school, while my behavior portrayed a well-behaved and well-mannered character. My performance was a mask to be accepted by others. The standard to fit a specific mold created a heavy burden. To escape, I read many books. There I could relate to people who faced similar challenges as me. They had responsibilities required of them, they had a trait that ostracized them from society, or they had insecurities about themselves. These stories helped me feel less lonely and isolated while helping me find myself. I found inspiration from their bravery and willingness to make a difference by being who they are. From the stories I read, I came to appreciate who I am. I learned that I am the byproduct of where I lived and where I came from. I came to appreciate the different parts of my upbringing and learned to embrace my difference. I have been privileged to live a better life to make a better future for myself and those living in different countries. My achievements show that a better lot awaits them if they seek it. At the same time, where I came from has given me benefits many people wouldn’t have access to. My heritage gives me a vantage point many don’t see unless it’s pointed out, and my voice can make the needed difference. I plan to impact the world with the mentality I have gained of being different. As an immigrant, I grew up with the notion of possible careers. It was typically a doctor, lawyer, engineer, or teacher. While these careers are admirable, they are not for me. Instead, I chose to be a journalist. I chose this path because I wanted to break the mold while helping create opportunities for others. I want to help those trapped in the restrictions others had placed them in. As a journalist, I can tell the stories of people who are not what they seem. Highlighting those who have a unique life or are different from society changes the narrative of what’s told. It gives the future generation of girls a chance to be themselves without shame. From personal experience, I know how powerful stories impact someone, and I want to help many tell their own stories. My history has defined how I want to impact the world. Being from two different places has shown me how important it is to be who I am and allow those who need it. In a way, I’ll be giving back to myself and helping the girls of our future generation. And I genuinely believe that this scholarship will be beneficial to pursuing that goal.

Being a service to others is a mindset I have known for as long as I can remember. From volunteering at school to running errands at church, I find ways to help others. As a person, volunteering has been a constant humbling experience that I genuinely need in life. It has shown how resourceful I can be and has taught me how to be empathetic to others. In both my career and future life goals, I plan to find ways to volunteer. My parents raised me in the spirit of service. We would always help set up or tear down any event we went to, did the dishes when we visited people, and even babysit occasionally. As I grew older, it became natural to help in any way. From school events to doing the church media, I found some way to be involved. For me, it’s a rewarding experience. Growing up as immigrants, my family went through many difficult times. Anytime we were at the end of our ropes, there would be someone who would have just what we needed. Usually, they would never know that we needed them when they appeared. These moments created the life I wanted, where I could help relieve the burden off of a person in need. If it were my capacity, I would make some contribution. My volunteer experience has shaped the way I see my future in the journalism industry. As a journalist, it’s essential to tell the stories of individuals and their lives. The sad part is many people are misrepresented or excluded to fit a specific demographic. As common as it is, it’s very detrimental as it creates a damaging narrative for a group of people. I want to use my career to help victims of that injustice. I plan on using my time and skills to learn from those different from me to share their experiences with the public in a way that correctly reflects them. This goal is personal for me as I’m dedicated to bringing proper representation to those who are marginalized. Being a marginalized individual, I know the life of being mistreated for being different and having to defend myself from the criticism of wrong information about who I am. I want to help those who are going through that same situation. By giving my time to those people, I’m giving back to the community I came from, and helping make a difference in the lives of many. My reason for helping those around me has always come from my love of volunteering; with the career I’m pursuing, I can do that. I don’t want to do it to feel accomplished or fulfilled; even though I do gain those feelings, I want to do it to change lives for the better. If my contribution can improve someone’s circumstances in any way, then I will succeed in life. That’s my core reason and how I want to give back to the community that had helped me when I needed it most.

I plan to be a photojournalist who can travel worldwide, telling stories about other people; this scholarship will help as it will pay for my tuition. I love learning how we made our society the way it is today and how we are improving ourselves. Being able to hear different people's stories is vital as it allows for a different view in perspective, conversation, and inclusivity in bringing change. For that to happen, there needs to be someone who brings attention to the public; that's where my future career comes into play. As a journalist, I am responsible for highlighting the events that occur. From a celebration to a historical recounting, a journalist must tell the public. As a people, we absorb information more visually than we do by hearing. As a photographer, my pictures will help inform the public of the story I'm capturing as they can see what is narrated. This goal is essential to me as I want to help those who want to share their stories, for those who need someone to listen to them but are ignored. My goal is to add these two concepts together. Being a photojournalist is more than just photographing the life of other people. It is changing the natives of many underprivileged people. Instead of reiterating stereotypes, I want to illuminate hidden tales. As a minority myself, I know what misconceptions do to a person. It isolates a person and makes it challenging to be who you indeed are, as well as alienates you from people who could understand you. That's why I want to be a photojournalist. I want to give a voice to outcasts like me. To give back to those who need hope that they matter for who they are. This scholarship will benefit my goal of being a photojournalist as it will pay for College expenses, reducing the amount of money my parents have to pay. Both of my parents are full-time nurses. They pay for the utilities, mortgage, my brother’s band expenses, and tuition. The work that they put in makes it difficult for us to spend time as a family and puts a strain on planning to do other activities. This scholarship will aid my parents. It will lessen the burden they have on their shoulders and will support me as a daughter. For me, any opportunity I can have to help my parents is tremendous as I can give back to them for all that they have done. To pursue my goals, I need as much financial help as possible. The Bright Lights scholarship will help me reach it. Not only me but the stories worth being told, The stories yet to be said, the people who are worth being written about, and the world can change because of it.

I want to learn to speak Spanish to the point where I can converse with any Spanish speaker. My desire drove me to apply for AP Spanish Literature during my senior year in high school. That was one of the most challenging moments in my life that taught me to endure despite the disadvantages. When I applied to the class, I knew it would be different from my other classes. For starters, Spanish isn’t my most robust language. I can understand the general gist of what a person is saying, but my responses are not as fluent as theirs. At times, it takes me a while before I can form a complete answer to a question asked. Though, the grammar has many mistakes. When it came to the class, we read many pieces of literature throughout history. Knowing what the literature was about would take me much longer than most classmates, so I was always left behind in class. The other problem was I couldn’t comprehend what my classmates were discussing. Most of my classmates had a different dialect than what I used to, making it hard to know what they were saying. Time seemed to stretch for an eternity in that class, and as the minutes ticked by, I could only see words forming but never fully comprehend what they meant. Every day it filled me with a sense of dread about what the class would do for the day, so I needed to put in the work. I would first listen to an audio version to get a first impression and have it translated into English to understand; then, I would annotate the work in Spanish to where I could understand it on my own. If what the class was talking about still didn't make sense, I would go to my friends and ask them to explain what the teacher had discussed. This tedious process often took time, but it was advantageous. I was able to comprehend the course. The literature started to come to life as things began to make sense. They became personal and not a far-off story. What we read would mention the history of Latin America. We would learn what many people lived through in different periods. Their history, culture, and societal mentality were fascinating to learn. It helped me realize how similar Latin Americans are to my African culture. We came from many hardships; there have been times when we had to stand up for ourselves against those who oppressed us and showed pride in our heritage. It made me respect the people who hail from Latin American countries. Taking AP Spanish Literature was no easy feat. It demanded all my time, energy, and effort to be constantly present in class. There were many times when I considered why I took the course while contemplating if I could switch, but I stayed. It was worth it. I managed to pass the course and AP test, but that wasn't the reward. Learning about a new world by experiencing it in a new language was impactful. Since then, I've been able to understand those who speak Spanish. While I'm still not a fluent speaker, I have gained the respect of those I meet who speak Spanish and learned from them.

I'm the eldest daughter of an African first-generation family. It shaped who I am as a person as I have been through so much, from navigating an American school system as the first child to finding my identity of two separate identities. As a child, I knew that being different was something many disliked. Even with people who looked like me, I was alienated. I endured many questions, such as "Do you have Ebola?" to "Are you poor because of where you come from?" While seemingly harmless, these questions proved how out of place I was. The criticism made me want to be anything but a stranger, so I would try to fit whatever mold someone had of me for a long time. It allowed me to grow accustomed to American culture and have friends I could talk to. Even though I knew I was suppressing my heritage, it helped me find people I could associate with. At home, my problem intensified by my parents' standards. I was often lectured to be on my best behavior, not to shame the family, and reminded how gaining recognition improved our conditions. While it was out of love, they unintentionally gave me a burden that was often difficult to bare. To make matters worse, my parents simultaneously worked and studied as nurses, and we didn't have many friends to keep us company, so I was left to take care of my brother in their absence. I became distant and often feared telling my parents about my school life, fearing that I would be a burden. The isolation created a need to learn about where I came from while being hesitant to reach out. To say that I had difficulty finding my self-identity as a child would be an understatement; however, I did find a silver lining. I found a balance between being an African and an American. I learned to be proud of where I come from. Even though there are many things I don't know about my native country, I am still African, and there are resources that can teach me about my culture. As an American, I can access knowledge to improve my surroundings and community. I learned to speak up about myself and my experiences, which intrigues a spark for change. It has also taught me that I can find people who share a similar cause to improve their communities and are tired of being forced to conform to appease others. I also learned that I'm not alone. Through the years of redefining who I was, I met people who had shared similar experiences. It showed me that I could be myself and didn't have to perform for anyone, and I was free. I am the byproduct of my experiences, a person who knows two cultures in one world and learned to love both. I want to give that to others through this scholarship. It will be beneficial as it will help me show other people, especially girls like me, that they are not alone. The money will help me pay to make a change in the narrative of how immigrants are portrayed, as I'll be breaking the mold of what an immigrant can be. The money wouldn't only help pay for my schooling and be a symbol of hope for the better if only someone could look up to see it. For me, it will be a way to show the younger me that she didn't have to be scared of who she was; she was perfect and didn't need to change.

For me, a leader has three traits that make them a leader; perseverance; accountability; and an open mind. These traits show a person who is committed to what they believe while being able to be empathetic to those around them. For me, these traits define how I see myself as a leader. It’s effortless to have dreams but harder to see that dream becoming a reality. From personal experience, making a dream a reality is daunting and taxing as many discouragements from people and circumstances often outway any progress made, only proving that what I’m doing has a purpose and will significantly impact those in the future. It also gives others hope to continue to endure any hardships that come their way. They have an example that they can accomplish their goals despite their objections. For me, nothing is more rewarding than seeing someone achieve what they dreamed of and coming to fruition. While accomplishing a task that exceeds expectations is admirable, every human has weaknesses and faults; as a result, boundaries matter. It gives the person priorities and standards that set them apart, showing that they are determined, focused, and know what they want. While these qualities are admirable, they often are hard to keep by oneself. So there need to be people who can help keep them. Accountability is necessary for a leader. Having people who can not only save you in check but call you out when you are doing the opposite of what you are can save you from destroying whatever you have built. Many great leaders have fallen because they never owned their actions. There was no one to make them reconsider their actions, and they refused to have reliable people to guide them in making wise decisions. For a leader to be effective, they need guidance. Usually, the wisdom given comes out condemning and offensive due to an initial defensive reaction, but the correction does lead to a better outcome. It challenges the leader to improve themselves while helping them direct their goals in a way they never knew they needed. Some of the best movements in life have come from different people willing to work together. It’s true in the music industry, with different genres working together to create songs and social movements rallying with other groups to make new laws. Cooperating with other people allows for better outreach to previously closed-off demographics. A leader sees the potential and takes advantage. They find ways to improve and learn from those who have different skill sets. Having an open mind also brings empathy to an individual. People know how their peers overcame and achieved their goals and challenges by interacting. They acknowledge that they need help outside their sphere of influence and are more willing to help. It forces them to put things into perspective and see a bigger picture outside of themselves. These traits previously mentioned are the qualities I emulate. They are the qualities that I find as a leader. When I have a goal to accomplish something, I pursue it. I aim to complete the task and find ways to encourage myself through struggles. I have flaws and seek those who can point them out and correctly guide me from my mistakes. Often, I find people I trust to give their input to my actions. I find joy in learning from others on subjects I don’t know. I find their insight more meaningful and vital, and I genuinely appreciate the wisdom I gain from them.

All my life, I have been a leader in some shape or form, whether leading a youth group or helping my classmates keep track of their project assignments. These experiences have not only framed my character but have also shaped the goals I have for myself in the future. My family is first-generation Kenyan American, meaning we all moved to America when I was five. For as long as I can remember, I was a role model for my younger cousins. Many aunts and uncles trusted me to care for their children in their stead whenever they were busy, especially on family occasions. Usually, I would play with the younger children or babysit the toddlers while the parents reconnected. I was also responsible for my school and church youth group outside my community. The teachers assigned me to watch over the class or run errands when they were busy teaching it. At times I was even permitted to teach the class what the lesson was about or help the younger students if I was free from my work. These experiences have shaped how I've seen being a leader. I've learned that leadership means more than telling others what to do. It's engaging with the people I'm around and meeting them as equals. At the same time, I've learned to take charge in situations when there is a situation where no one knows what to do, and guidance is needed. The past has taught me to aspire to be dependable to others. This mentality has ruled and defined how I see the future of my career. As an aspiring photojournalist who documents the life of other people in their surroundings, this goal will require me to charge if I want to create stories that will matter. I intend to do that by showing that I'm capable of representing the people I write of and value who they are as people. From childhood, I've known that the people I come across are not likely to share my beliefs or experiences, and I've learned to work with that. Instead of imposing my will on others, I try to find how the strengths of my peers can lead to a solution. Allowing them to do what they are skilled at and permitting them to show their value, making it easier to complete the work. As a journalist, this also gives the people I'm writing about the chance to be confident in themselves and who they are. My leadership experiences will also help me create new perspectives. With my opportunities, I know ideas are waiting. It's hidden, or there is a fear of speaking out. That's why I voice the thoughts I have, as it helps give inspiration for others to do the same with theirs making a project even more meaningful as it was original and creative. How I have shown leadership growing up has made me who I am. I think of ways to empower others and bring attention to matters important to the people I work with. In the future, I will use these skills to tell the narratives of individuals who want to share their stories in their way.

“A picture is worth a thousand words.” Even though this phrase is well known, it still has a truth. The pictures that we see tell a story before any words are said. This fact is accurate for underprivileged communities. My goal is to be able to tell the stories of the disadvantaged. As a first-generation immigrant, I grew up misunderstood because of the stigma many people had associated with the media. It was challenging to find pride in where I came from and even harder to explain to others my personal experience as there was already a script written for me to follow, even if it was completely different from what I knew. Photography became my outlet to express what I saw in a way that allowed others to see me for who I was. The images of what a person did, their facial experience, and the environment helped me explain the event so that many could understand while being captivated long enough to listen. It became a turning point in conversations and allowed the audience to rethink their opinion. At the same time,e they learned, making me want to pursue photography as I could rewrite and give a voice to those who can relate to my experiences. This scholarship will be a massive help for me to pursue my career. It would help my family reduce the amount of money that would go to my college expenses and allow us to finance the funds into my classes that support my goal. It would save for the cameras and camera equipment that take the photos making a step towards inspiring those who can relate to me as they would see themselves in my photography. This scholarship means so much to create a space where conversations of change to those who need it will be more accessible. It would help the next generation find their voices by giving them an outlet to look towards.

As an African immigrant, there have been many expectations of who I am and what I can want in life. Anything outside the script society has made for me was unacceptable. In the real world, there weren’t many examples I could look to that went through what I did and found a way to change their narrative. That’s why I often escaped to a reality illustrated by an author’s imagination. I knew I could find inspiration in the middle of a fantasy world where the stakes were conforming to the oppression that had existed for centuries or dying for a better future. Zélie Adebola, the protagonist from the book Children of Blood and Bone series, experienced many persecutions because she was different. Not only did she not look like everyone in her village, but she also had a gift that set her apart. Often she was attacked and hunted down to stifle the trait that made her unique. She felt ostracized by those around her, and made her very isolated. Similarly, I’ve been in that same place. Being from a different country made it difficult to connect with fellow peers. Many didn’t think I could amount to much because where I came from was projected as uncivilized, barren, and wild. It was easier to appear normal to make those around me comfortable and have some connection with them. It made me emptier as I knew I wasn’t being authentic, so I decided to be myself despite the criticism. Like Zélie, being myself was expensive, but I was finally free. I even found people who could relate to me and loved me for being my authentic self. Books like these have shown me to be proud of who I am. I was born the way I was and can’t change it, so I might as well accept my experiences and where I came from. Similar to how Zélie taught me to appreciate who I am, Aelin Galathynius and Feyre Archeron from The Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses taught me to achieve my goals despite the obstacles that come along the way. In their own respective stories, they dealt with many hardships in life. Often they are severely wronged and are given the weight of responsibilities of saving their kingdoms in exchange for their lives. Even with these circumstances, they both overcome their challenges. They can rally allies to stop the threats that arrive and halt the plans of those who plan to take over. Their methods are entirely different; however, they are victorious. These two characters have made me challenge the way I see my obstacles. In contrast, I’m not battling opponents or saving a kingdom; I know what it’s like to be overlooked by more qualified people. I also know what it’s like to question if I can do something I’ve never done before. These two have been an outlet for fighting my insecurities and doubts as I’ve seen them conquer their inner demons. Books have done more than form how I see myself in the real world. The stories share similar events I’ve been through while I learned how the characters changed their futures for their own sake. They remind me that I can also be who I want to be and have the power to achieve them if only I dare to dream.

When I was five, my family left everything we had in Kenya and moved to America for me and my brother to gain a better education. A few months after we moved to America, I was placed in a kindergarten and began trying to find my identity in this new country. The transition was complicated, to say the least, and it has dramatically impacted how I have seen myself. Growing up, I learned that I could be different from people who looked like me. In elementary, my family moved to an underprivileged community with barely any immigrant households. Leaving me as an outcast, I was ridiculed and labeled for all the stereotypes of an Africa. In school, this made me have low self-esteem in what I was capable of. If I seemed as impoverished, and uneducated, there wasn’t much I could contribute to because no one would want to hear from my perspective. I trained myself to strive for excellence at the expense of my health to make up for my shortcomings. Usually, this left me drained, exhausted, and seeking to prove others wrong. It wasn’t until my family moved to a more diverse community in my high school years that I started to accept who I was. I learned that many peers could relate to my struggles and celebrated who they were. They showed me that my African heritage was a gift that many people needed to hear. Allowing me to walk into my classes knowing that I didn’t have to apologize for who I was. Instead, I can boldly be who I am, as my heritage has shaped my drive to have excellence in my education.

Everyone should read The Hate You Give as the story explores how the forms of prejudice influence society in moments of injustice. It calls into question how we accept the wrongdoings of those in authority and how it impacts the younger generation while realistically showing how people can overcome the system that has held them down. Kahili Harris died by an officer who believed he had a weapon. His death called into question whether he deserved to die at the hands of an officer or if he was an innocent victim of a stereotype. To further undermine his tragic end, his character was under scrutiny by the media as his past actions only glorified the negative beliefs about his actions. His past was only one of the thousands that had a similar story to him and proves how skewed our perspective is by how easily we believe the worst in a person when they are the victims. His death also shows how numb the next generation is to a traumatic event. When Starr Davis witnesses his death, she describes how she had seen similar horrors at a younger age. Her experiences of seeing people who look like her die made it challenging to open up about as her past showed that justice didn’t prevail before. Her mind of thinking was only proven true when the officer in charge was acquitted of his crimes. The younger generation can see how broken our society is and often has to battle with finding hope in their circumstance when it seems futile. Even when the opportunity presents itself, a shift seems unlikely to occur. Despite the nation debating on doing the right thing, there was a silver lining. The media outlets that had neglected to defend Kahili were countered by those who wanted to do right by him. Police officers acknowledged their failure by the youth who had had enough of their excuses. Also, many people began to have serious discussions about the biases they had learned and were fighting for those who didn’t share in their problems. While it was a process to fully comprehend how events like murder could lead to a guilty man being free, the call to action showed that change is possible. For as dark as our world might be, there is a future where maltreatment is no longer accepted.

I want to travel the world, exploring the world of people that no one has heard of through the photos I take and the stories I write.