COURAGE, CONFIDENCE, AND character Aayana Baid

A core value of any well-rounded individual, especially a high-school student, is community service. Whether it be helping beautify a neighborhood by cleaning up trash, serving food to the homeless, or simply volunteering at a local organization, get involved in the community is one of the best.

For Miami Palmetto Senior High School sophomore Aayana Baid, prodigy is an understatement. With so many extracurriculars and leadership positions already under her belt already, she is more qualified than most senior students. Baid’s top priority is community service, and through her participation in the Pinecrest Youth Advisory Council and Girl Scouts, she has demonstrated exceptional talent in helping others.

“I think that once you start getting into the habit of giving back, it shapes you into a different and better person,” Baid said. “[Community service] makes you grateful for what you have and is a way of paying it forward.”

Not only is Baid a member of YAC, but she holds the position of Vice Chair. In this role, Baid has first handedly seen the leadership side of the organization where she has learned the proficiency required to manage and oversee the other teens in the council, as well as do her part of participating in community events.

“I’m so proud of her for taking it upon herself to run for office,” YAC advisor. “It takes a lot of courage to run for an elective position, and she not only ran but won.”

Aside from being a member of YAC, Baid has been a girl scout for 11 years.

Baid’s involvement extends beyond selling the renowned girl scout cookies, but as a leader through her community service projects.

“I’ve been a girl scout since 2012. I’ve completed a bunch of community service projects with the Girls Scouts, and my Take Action project,” Baid said. “I worked with Be the Change freshman year [donated individually packaged beverages and drinks to them]. Now [I am] working towards the gold award,” Baid said.

The Girl Scouts are a way to not only participate in the community but make long-lasting connections and friendships. The Scouts perform many team-building exercises and emphasize cooperation through their group projects and nature activities.

“They’re like a sisterhood,” Baid’s Girl Scout troupe leader Elaine Pachon said. “Not only do they have fun and common interests, but they have a friendship and respect for each other.”

Although this is Baid’s first year at MPSH, she has immersed herself into the school environment. Her passion for community service led her to join the community outreach committee on Student Council, going hand in hand with her work in YAC.

“Palmetto is a lot bigger than my school last year but I just love it. I love how academically challenging it can be, and even though it is a big school,. I just think its a great school and its helped me become more outgoing,” Baid said.

Jake Hawkins Staff Writer j.hawkins.thepanther@gmail.com

Jasmine Judge Business Manager j.judge.thepanther@gmail.com