I was fourteen years old when I left Malawi for Maine. I remember the weight of my mother’s hug before I stepped onto the plane, the way her arms lingered as if holding on just a little longer might change what was happening. But I had to go. The opportunity to study abroad was a step toward a future where I could learn, grow, and, most importantly, give back. Since then, every milestone—my first winter, my first poetry performance, my first leadership role—has been a moment of both triumph and challenge, shaping me into the person I am today. As an international student, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Living thousands of miles from my family has required resilience I never imagined I had. I’ve had to step into shoes that have never been worn before, navigating cultural shifts, independence, and the responsibility of creating a home away from home. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has reinforced my strengths—my ability to adapt, my drive to uplift others, and my commitment to growth. One of my greatest strengths is my deep-rooted desire to give back to my community. Whether organizing events at my school, working with Valo to support youth empowerment, or participating in Ultimate Frisbee with Zeno Mountain Farm, I find purpose in fostering connections and creating spaces where others feel seen and valued. This passion extends to my love for hands-on work, from making jewelry to sewing and creating music. I believe that creativity and community go hand in hand, and I hope to continue using my skills to make a meaningful impact. Recently, I’ve embarked on a journey to become a doula, a path that feels like a natural extension of my commitment to care and support. Birth work is more than just a profession; it is an act of service, a way to honor the strength of women and ensure that every mother, regardless of her background, receives the care and advocacy she deserves. Completing my certification requires education, hands-on experience, and financial investment—all of which a scholarship would make possible. A scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of my education; it would allow me to fully commit to my dreams without the constant worry of how to make ends meet. It would be an investment in someone who will, in turn, invest in others. I have always believed that knowledge is meant to be shared, that when we lift others, we all rise. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to grow, to learn, and to give back in ways that honor the sacrifices my family has made and the opportunities that have shaped me. I may be far from home, but my purpose remains clear: to be a source of light, a builder of community, and a force for positive change. This scholarship is not just about me—it is about the countless lives I hope to touch, uplift, and empower.

I was fourteen years old when I left Malawi for Maine. I remember the weight of my mother’s hug before I stepped onto the plane, the way her arms lingered as if holding on just a little longer might change what was happening. But I had to go. The opportunity to study abroad was a step toward a future where I could learn, grow, and, most importantly, give back. Since then, every milestone—my first winter, my first poetry performance, my first leadership role—has been a moment of both triumph and challenge, shaping me into the person I am today. As an international student, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Living thousands of miles from my family has required resilience I never imagined I had. I’ve had to step into shoes that have never been worn before, navigating cultural shifts, independence, and the responsibility of creating a home away from home. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has reinforced my strengths—my ability to adapt, my drive to uplift others, and my commitment to growth. One of my greatest strengths is my deep-rooted desire to give back to my community. Whether organizing events at my school, working with Valo to support youth empowerment, or participating in Ultimate Frisbee with Zeno Mountain Farm, I find purpose in fostering connections and creating spaces where others feel seen and valued. This passion extends to my love for hands-on work, from making jewelry to sewing and creating music. I believe that creativity and community go hand in hand, and I hope to continue using my skills to make a meaningful impact. Recently, I’ve embarked on a journey to become a doula, a path that feels like a natural extension of my commitment to care and support. Birth work is more than just a profession; it is an act of service, a way to honor the strength of women and ensure that every mother, regardless of her background, receives the care and advocacy she deserves. Completing my certification requires education, hands-on experience, and financial investment—all of which a scholarship would make possible. A scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of my education; it would allow me to fully commit to my dreams without the constant worry of how to make ends meet. It would be an investment in someone who will, in turn, invest in others. I have always believed that knowledge is meant to be shared, that when we lift others, we all rise. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to grow, to learn, and to give back in ways that honor the sacrifices my family has made and the opportunities that have shaped me. I may be far from home, but my purpose remains clear: to be a source of light, a builder of community, and a force for positive change. This scholarship is not just about me—it is about the countless lives I hope to touch, uplift, and empower.

I was fourteen years old when I left Malawi for Maine. I remember the weight of my mother’s hug before I stepped onto the plane, the way her arms lingered as if holding on just a little longer might change what was happening. But I had to go. The opportunity to study abroad was a step toward a future where I could learn, grow, and, most importantly, give back. Since then, every milestone—my first winter, my first poetry performance, my first leadership role—has been a moment of both triumph and challenge, shaping me into the person I am today. As an international student, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Living thousands of miles from my family has required resilience I never imagined I had. I’ve had to step into shoes that have never been worn before, navigating cultural shifts, independence, and the responsibility of creating a home away from home. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has reinforced my strengths—my ability to adapt, my drive to uplift others, and my commitment to growth. One of my greatest strengths is my deep-rooted desire to give back to my community. Whether organizing events at my school, working with Valo to support youth empowerment, or participating in Ultimate Frisbee with Zeno Mountain Farm, I find purpose in fostering connections and creating spaces where others feel seen and valued. This passion extends to my love for hands-on work, from making jewelry to sewing and creating music. I believe that creativity and community go hand in hand, and I hope to continue using my skills to make a meaningful impact. Recently, I’ve embarked on a journey to become a doula, a path that feels like a natural extension of my commitment to care and support. Birth work is more than just a profession; it is an act of service, a way to honor the strength of women and ensure that every mother, regardless of her background, receives the care and advocacy she deserves. Completing my certification requires education, hands-on experience, and financial investment—all of which a scholarship would make possible. A scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of my education; it would allow me to fully commit to my dreams without the constant worry of how to make ends meet. It would be an investment in someone who will, in turn, invest in others. I have always believed that knowledge is meant to be shared, that when we lift others, we all rise. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to grow, to learn, and to give back in ways that honor the sacrifices my family has made and the opportunities that have shaped me. I may be far from home, but my purpose remains clear: to be a source of light, a builder of community, and a force for positive change. This scholarship is not just about me—it is about the countless lives I hope to touch, uplift, and empower. Moving to Maine was one of the most challenging experiences of my life, yet it became the foundation for some of my greatest achievements. Leaving behind the familiarity of home, I faced a new environment, new people, and the uncertainty of starting over. At first, it felt like everything was stacked against me—adapting to a different culture, overcoming self-doubt, and finding my place in an unfamiliar community. But through perseverance, I turned these obstacles into stepping stones for success. One of the biggest hurdles was adjusting to the educational system and finding confidence in my own voice. I struggled at first, but I knew that if I wanted to succeed, I had to push myself beyond my comfort zone. I developed a strategy: I immersed myself in my studies, sought out mentors, and took every opportunity to engage in activities that would sharpen my skills. I also leaned on writing and poetry as a way to express my emotions and navigate my new reality. This dedication led to one of my proudest moments—winning Poetry Out Loud. Competing in front of an audience required me to master not only my material but also my fear. I practiced relentlessly, refining my delivery, understanding the deeper meaning behind the words, and learning how to command a room with confidence. Each time I stepped on stage, I reminded myself that I had already overcome bigger challenges, and this was just another hurdle I was capable of crossing. Winning the competition was more than just an achievement; it was proof that I had found my voice in a place that once felt foreign to me. Beyond Poetry Out Loud, my persistence opened doors to many other achievements. I became involved in school clubs and extracurricular activities, which allowed me to develop leadership skills and form lasting connections with peers and mentors. I worked tirelessly on my academics, improving my grades and pushing myself to excel in subjects that once intimidated me. The challenges I faced in Maine were not just external but internal as well. There were moments of doubt, loneliness, and frustration. However, I learned to channel those emotions into positive actions. I sought guidance from teachers and mentors, embraced opportunities to challenge myself, and found comfort in creative expression. Writing became my refuge, a space where I could process my experiences and turn them into something meaningful. Poetry, in particular, allowed me to articulate my journey, my struggles, and my triumphs in a way that resonated with others. Now, as I look ahead to continuing my education, I carry with me the lessons I learned in Maine. I know that challenges will come, but I also know that with resilience, determination, and the right mindset, I can achieve even greater things. My journey has shown me that hardship does not define me—how I respond to it does. I am eager to take on the next chapter of my life, knowing that the strength I built through adversity will guide me toward future success.

International Women’s Day is more than a day of recognition; it is a reminder of resilience, a call to action, and a celebration of the power women hold within themselves and their communities. To me, this day stands as a testament to the generations of women who have fought for progress and an opportunity for us to continue that legacy. It is about lifting each other up, ensuring that voices—especially those that are often unheard—are given the space to speak, grow, and lead. As an international student, I have experienced firsthand what it means to navigate spaces where I have had to find my own strength and build my own support systems. Moving to Maine was a defining moment in my life. I left behind my mother—one of the strongest women I know—who stayed home while I pursued my education. That experience was not just a test of independence but a lesson in the sacrifices women make every day for the people they love. It reinforced my belief that the strength of women often lies in their ability to nurture, uplift, and lead, even in the face of personal challenges. At Maine Coast Waldorf School, I took on leadership roles, organizing events like coffee houses and participating in Poetry Out Loud, where I used my voice to express not only my own experiences but those of others. Through Zeno Mountain Farm and Valo, I found a sense of community, discovering how powerful it is when people come together to create spaces of belonging. In many ways, this reflects what International Women’s Day means to me—bringing people together, recognizing the value of every person, and making an impact that lasts beyond a single moment. My passion for service extends beyond leadership; it is rooted in a desire to make tangible changes. As I work toward my doula certification, I am preparing to support women in one of the most profound experiences of their lives—childbirth. Being a doula is more than a profession; it is a commitment to ensuring that women feel safe, heard, and empowered in moments of vulnerability. In many parts of the world, including my home country, access to quality maternal care is still a challenge. International Women’s Day reminds me why this work matters—it is about advocating for women, for their choices, their health, and their right to be cared for with dignity and respect. International Women’s Day is not just about acknowledging struggles; it is about actively working toward solutions. It is about celebrating the women who have paved the way and committing to being the ones who continue that work. Whether through my community involvement, my creative expressions, or my future as a doula, I want to be part of the change that this day calls for. For me, International Women’s Day is both a reflection of how far we’ve come and a motivation to keep pushing forward—together.

International Women’s Day is more than a day of recognition; it is a reminder of resilience, a call to action, and a celebration of the power women hold within themselves and their communities. To me, this day stands as a testament to the generations of women who have fought for progress and an opportunity for us to continue that legacy. It is about lifting each other up, ensuring that voices—especially those that are often unheard—are given the space to speak, grow, and lead. As an international student, I have experienced firsthand what it means to navigate spaces where I have had to find my own strength and build my own support systems. Moving to Maine was a defining moment in my life. I left behind my mother—one of the strongest women I know—who stayed home while I pursued my education. That experience was not just a test of independence but a lesson in the sacrifices women make every day for the people they love. It reinforced my belief that the strength of women often lies in their ability to nurture, uplift, and lead, even in the face of personal challenges. At Maine Coast Waldorf School, I took on leadership roles, organizing events like coffee houses and participating in Poetry Out Loud, where I used my voice to express not only my own experiences but those of others. Through Zeno Mountain Farm and Valo, I found a sense of community, discovering how powerful it is when people come together to create spaces of belonging. In many ways, this reflects what International Women’s Day means to me—bringing people together, recognizing the value of every person, and making an impact that lasts beyond a single moment. My passion for service extends beyond leadership; it is rooted in a desire to make tangible changes. As I work toward my doula certification, I am preparing to support women in one of the most profound experiences of their lives—childbirth. Being a doula is more than a profession; it is a commitment to ensuring that women feel safe, heard, and empowered in moments of vulnerability. In many parts of the world, including my home country, access to quality maternal care is still a challenge. International Women’s Day reminds me why this work matters—it is about advocating for women, for their choices, their health, and their right to be cared for with dignity and respect. International Women’s Day is not just about acknowledging struggles; it is about actively working toward solutions. It is about celebrating the women who have paved the way and committing to being the ones who continue that work. Whether through my community involvement, my creative expressions, or my future as a doula, I want to be part of the change that this day calls for. For me, International Women’s Day is both a reflection of how far we’ve come and a motivation to keep pushing forward—together.

When I was fourteen years old, I left Malawi for Maine. I remember the weight of my mother’s hug before I stepped onto the plane, the way her arms lingered as if holding on just a little longer might change what was happening. But I had to go. The opportunity to study abroad was a step toward a future where I could learn, grow, and, most importantly, give back. Since then, every milestone—my first winter, my first poetry performance, my first leadership role—has been a moment of both triumph and challenge, shaping me into the person I am today. As an international student, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Living thousands of miles from my family has required resilience I never imagined I had. I’ve had to step into shoes that have never been worn before, navigating cultural shifts, independence, and the responsibility of creating a home away from home. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has reinforced my strengths—my ability to adapt, my drive to uplift others, and my commitment to growth. Sports have also played an important role in helping me find belonging in new places. I have participated in Ultimate Frisbee, including playing with the Zeno Mountain Farm community. For me, athletics are not just about competition—they are about teamwork, trust, and building connections across differences. Being part of a team has taught me how to communicate, support others, and show up consistently for something larger than myself. These lessons mirror the values I try to bring into every part of my life: collaboration, resilience, and leadership. As I enter college, I hope to continue participating in athletics, whether by competing, joining a club team, or contributing in another capacity within the athletic community. While I am not attending on an athletic scholarship, I plan to remain involved in sports because being a student-athlete represents balance, discipline, and community. Athletics remind me that growth often comes from pushing past discomfort and learning to rely on others—lessons that have shaped me both on and off the field. One of my greatest strengths is my deep-rooted desire to give back to my community. Whether organizing events at my school, working with Valo to support youth empowerment, or creating welcoming spaces for others, I find purpose in fostering connections where people feel seen and valued. This passion extends to my love for hands-on work, from making jewelry to sewing and creating music. I believe creativity and community go hand in hand, and I hope to continue using my skills to make a meaningful impact. Recently, I have also begun the journey to become a doula, a path that feels like a natural extension of my commitment to care and support. Birth work is more than just a profession; it is an act of service—a way to honor the strength of women and ensure that every mother, regardless of her background, receives the care and advocacy she deserves. Completing my certification requires education, hands-on experience, and financial investment—all of which a scholarship would make possible. A scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of my education; it would allow me to fully commit to my dreams without the constant worry of how to make ends meet. It would be an investment in someone who will, in turn, invest in others. I have always believed that knowledge is meant to be shared—that when we lift others, we all rise. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to grow, learn, and give back in ways that honor the sacrifices my family has made and the opportunities that have shaped me. I may be far from home, but my purpose remains clear: to be a source of light, a builder of community, and a force for positive change. Representing You Got It Girl (YGIG) would mean using my voice, my experiences, and my leadership—both as a student and an athlete—to inspire other young women to believe in their strength, pursue their dreams, and uplift those around them.

I was fourteen years old when I left Malawi for Maine. I remember the weight of my mother’s hug before I stepped onto the plane, the way her arms lingered as if holding on just a little longer might change what was happening. But I had to go. The opportunity to study abroad was a step toward a future where I could learn, grow, and, most importantly, give back. Since then, every milestone—my first winter, my first poetry performance, my first leadership role—has been a moment of both triumph and challenge, shaping me into the person I am today. As an international student, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Living thousands of miles from my family has required resilience I never imagined I had. I’ve had to step into shoes that have never been worn before, navigating cultural shifts, independence, and the responsibility of creating a home away from home. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has reinforced my strengths—my ability to adapt, my drive to uplift others, and my commitment to growth. One of my greatest strengths is my deep-rooted desire to give back to my community. Whether organizing events at my school, working with Valo to support youth empowerment, or participating in Ultimate Frisbee with Zeno Mountain Farm, I find purpose in fostering connections and creating spaces where others feel seen and valued. This passion extends to my love for hands-on work, from making jewelry to sewing and creating music. I believe that creativity and community go hand in hand, and I hope to continue using my skills to make a meaningful impact. Recently, I’ve embarked on a journey to become a doula, a path that feels like a natural extension of my commitment to care and support. Birth work is more than just a profession; it is an act of service, a way to honor the strength of women and ensure that every mother, regardless of her background, receives the care and advocacy she deserves. Completing my certification requires education, hands-on experience, and financial investment—all of which a scholarship would make possible. A scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of my education; it would allow me to fully commit to my dreams without the constant worry of how to make ends meet. It would be an investment in someone who will, in turn, invest in others. I have always believed that knowledge is meant to be shared, that when we lift others, we all rise. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to grow, to learn, and to give back in ways that honor the sacrifices my family has made and the opportunities that have shaped me. I may be far from home, but my purpose remains clear: to be a source of light, a builder of community, and a force for positive change. This scholarship is not just about me—it is about the countless lives I hope to touch, uplift, and empower.

I am a young African woman who learned early how to doubt herself. In rooms where I was the only Black girl, the only one with my accent, the only one from where I come from, I learned how to shrink. For a long time, I learned how to do instead of dream. I stayed busy, stayed useful, stayed moving. Dreaming felt dangerous—like something fragile that could be taken away if I held it too openly. I was born in Malawi and raised partly in South Africa before moving to Maine for high school. Crossing continents shaped me. I grew up watching women carry pain quietly. Pregnancy was not celebrated; it was survived. Clinics were far, resources were scarce, and care often came too late. I did not have words for what I was witnessing then, but I understand it now: women’s health was not valued the way it should have been. Those experiences stayed with me, settling deep into how I see the world. When I began studying biology, science gave language to what my heart already knew. Lessons on the reproductive system, pregnancy, and human development felt personal. Every concept connected to a woman I remembered, a story I had witnessed, or a question I had carried since childhood. Biology stopped feeling abstract. It became a way to honor lived experience. That was when I realized science was not simply an interest—it was something I needed to pursue. Still, doubt followed me into academic spaces. Surrounded by white students who seemed certain they belonged, I often felt smaller. Somewhere along the way, I had learned that girls like me were not supposed to imagine futures in medicine. But when I look at myself now, I see something clearer. I see a stethoscope around my neck. I imagine my hands steady in sterile gloves. I hear someone call, “Doctor, we need you.” That image no longer frightens me—it fuels me. My passion for women’s health has grown into practice. I am currently working toward my doula certification, having completed my first workshop and preparing for birth attendance and lactation training. Being in birth spaces has changed me. I have seen the power of being heard and the harm of being ignored. These experiences taught me that healthcare is not only clinical—it is built on trust, presence, and respect. Service has always grounded me. At Zeno Mountain Farm, I support people with disabilities in living full, joyful lives, learning patience and how to meet people where they are. Through Valo, a nonprofit focused on uplifting youth voices, I have learned that storytelling is a form of care and resistance. I express myself through poetry and music. I won first place in Maine’s Poetry Out Loud competition by speaking honestly, not impressively. I have spoken at the New England Youth Identity Summit about fear, identity, and growth. These skills matter in medicine. Listening saves lives. Communication builds trust. My long-term goal is to become a Certified Nurse Midwife and eventually earn my Doctor of Nursing Practice. I want to return to communities like the ones that raised me and build care that feels human. Much of my strength comes from my mother, who stayed behind in Malawi so I could move forward. When I doubt myself, I think of her—and of how far I have already come. I no longer hide my dreams. I say them out loud.