Hello! My name is Stephanie Mathurin. I was born on March 23, 2003, in the United States to my loving and supportive Haitian-immigrant parents. I am currently enrolled in college for Fine Arts. I am going to college to study fine arts- as it takes up a big part of my life. I've always been a crafty person. I always lean towards anything related to art, whether music, dancing, singing, or other art forms. I am not a social type, so I let my art speak for itself. I am truly blessed to have parents wholeheartedly supporting me and my endeavors. They also know that art is a passion of mine; thus, they support that path. I have always been active in my community. Growing up with Haitian parents meant you were obligated to participate in church. I’m very grateful that my parents raised me God-fearing. Church laid the foundation and instilled unshakable principles in me. I was a part of a liturgical dance group that performed at various churches for praise and worship. At five years old, I also joined my church’s choir and sang solos every second Sunday of the month. We traveled to conferences and fundraisers to spread awareness and advocate for civil issues, health services, education, homelessness, and meal distributions. With church exposing me to volunteer work and contribution, I seek to do these things on my own, and with the church as a catalyst, I can bring more attention to the things in my community. Currently, Florida Memorial University's marching band has also exposed me to other organizations that contribute to my community. Although I am not a member of a Divine 9 organization or band sorority, I still participate in fundraising, walks, and events. Tau Beta Sigma is a band sorority that prioritizes service and community outreach. Being a part of the marching band allows you to participate in marches and performances to reach youth and provide scholarships for them to attend higher education. I still participate in outreach and volunteer with my church; I have found other things to be a part of. Yearly, I volunteer for Relay For Life- an American Cancer Society walk that unites people together. Those with cancer, doctors, nurses, cancer survivors, families, and friends are allowed to participate. This walk raises funds to advocate, educate, and research cancer. Annually, I participate in multiple toy drives, such as Toys for Tots, the city of Lauderhill toy giveaway, the back-to-school giveaway, and the Coral Springs holiday toy drive. I also participate in marches for underrepresented minorities such as Asians, Black/African Americans, and Hispanics. In the future, I plan to partner with children's hospitals and provide drawing, painting, and music lessons to aid in treatment and mental well-being. I am truly blessed to be a part of change in my community. Being hands-on in my community has shown me that one person does and can make a big difference. Thank you for reading! -Stephanie Mathurin