Poetry: Ya No La Busques
Girl Rising: Education, inspiration, and equality
Spotlight on Girl Rising/
EXPLORATION LA VIDA
1. 5.14.22: Motivos founder and son meet author Elisabet Velasquez at Taller Puertorriqueño, Philadelphia, PA
2. 5.25.2022: Motivos Team Talk segment hosts Les Left Hand and Kevin Shane of the Crow Nation from Billings, MT 3. 6.18.22: Motivos participates in the Sugar Cane Festival, Philadelphia, PA 4. 6.25.22: La Casa Latina at the University of Pennsylvania hosts Team Retreat, Philadelphia, PA
5. 7.8-8.5.22: Motivos is contracted to bring Video Camps to youth campers at McPherson Library and McVeigh Recreation Centers, Philadelphia, PA
6. 7.10.22: Motivos participates in Venezuelan Family Day festivities in FDR Park, Philadelphia, PA
7. 7.12-8.9.22: Motivos founder provides a series of professional development and team-building training sessions to youth workers from Centro Nueva Creación, Philadelphia, PA
8. 7.13-8.4.22: Motivos founder brings literacy-infused STEAM summer camp programs with a watershed theme to three Salvation Army Summer Camp sites, Philadelphia, PA
9. 7.21.22: Motivos founder Jenée Chizick Agüero and Media Fellow Karyme Font present Student Voice and Choice: Creating Media That Empower virtually for the US Department of Education Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers 2022 Summer Symposium
10. 8.25.22: Side Hustle 101 Business Accelerator Program and Ride Free host simultaneous Motivos Self-Discovery edition launch celebrations in Philadelphia, PA 11. 8.25.22: The Philadelphia Phillies treat Motivos Media Mentorship Program participants and families to Latino Family Night at the Phillies, Philadelphia, PA
Malaya
A bird flying free from a cage, a degree in hand, handcuffs removed, arms outstretched, standing tall atop a hill. These images say “freedom.”
In this edition, we asked you to share times you felt most free to pursue your dreams, speak your truth, or be authentically yourself. You shared times of struggle while seeking freedom in stability like Faizah (p. 21) and Patrice (p. 14.); ways to lessen the load of college debt (p. 24); and strategies to free your mindset of accusatory thoughts (p. 20). Eliot Olaya’s poem (p. 7) reflects on the efforts of those who opened doors so that we might freely walk through them, and Trent Randle (p. 8) encourages us to choose to use our freedom to learn, grow, and uplift those around us.
Un pájaro que vuela libre de una jaula, un título en mano, unas esposas quitadas, alguien con los brazos extendidos y de pie en lo alto de una colina.
Estas imágenes dicen “libertad”.
Para esta edición, les pedimos momentos en que se hayan sentido libres para perseguir sus sueños, decir su verdad o ser auténti camente ustedes. Y comparti eron momentos de lucha por la libertad en la estabilidad, como Faizah (p. 21) y Patrice (p. 14); maneras de aliviar la carga de la deuda universitaria (p. 24); y estrategias para liberar la mente de pensamientos acusatorios (p. 21). Un poema de Eliot Olaya (p. 7) reflexiona sobre el esfuerzo de quienes abrieron puertas por las que hoy podemos pasar libremente y Trent Randle (p. 8) nos alienta a usar nuestra libertad para aprender, crecer y animar a quienes nos rodean.
Photography
Mas. Differences keep it spicy!, p. 19.
IMPACT Services, Centro Nueva Creación, and the
Army for funding Motivos literacy-infused STEAM Watershed-themed camp programs, Motivos Video Camp programming, and Motivos leadership training for Philadelphia youth over the summer months of 2022.
Motivos is the nation’s largest bilingual quarterly print magazine with youth-generated content. We have over 90,000 readers from participating youthserving organizations, schools, libraries, cultural organizations, and colleges in the United States, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, and Colombia. Over 30,000 youth have participated in our workshops, media institutes, summer camps, and conferences. For more information, to order Motivos for your organization, or to book a program or speaker, go to: www.motivosmag.com.
For advertising or subscription options, call 267-283-1733 or send an e-mail to: info@motivosmag.com.
Motivos magazine P.O. Box 34391 Philadelphia, PA 19101 info@motivosmag.com www.motivosmag.com
Copyright © 2022 Motivos, LLC. All rights reserved. Copying, reproducing, or transmittal of this publication by any means is prohibited without the permission of the Publisher. The Publisher is not liable for any damages due to editing, changes, cancellations, errors, or omissions. All work submitted for publication is assumed to be the provider’s original work, and the Publisher accepts no liability as a result of publishing such works. The viewpoints expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Motivos. Motivos is a nationally registered trademark. Unauthorized use of the Motivos name is prohibited.
I feel most free when I travel. The mun dane is replaced with wonder; each day be comes a new adventure. My senses re-awaken as I take in new surroundings, listen harder, and learn more deeply. If you’re starting to feel stuck or apathetic, I can’t recommend it enough. You don’t have to go far—you can simply shift your everyday routine and be open to the unexpected. When your perspec tive shifts, new possibilities emerge, and the freedom we most seek is closer than we imagined.
Read for ideas, proven strategies, and connections to resources and role models. Then go find your version of freedom!
Con cariño,
Cuando más libre me siento es cuando viajo. Lo mundano da paso a lo asombroso, cada día es una nueva aventura. Mis sentidos se vuelven a despertar a medida que asimilo un nuevo entorno, escucho con más atención, aprendo más profundamente. A quien empiece a sentirse atascado o apático, se lo recomien do. No es necesario ir muy lejos, basta con cambiar la rutina y abrirse a lo inesperado. Con la nueva perspectiva surgen nuevas posi bilidades y la libertad que tanto buscamos se revela más cerca de lo imaginado.
Lee en busca de ideas, estrategias com probadas, conexión con recursos e historias ejemplares. ¡Luego ve a buscar tu versión de la libertad!
Jenée Chizick Agüero Founder and Publisher, Motivos magaziney de carreras, y el compromiso comunitario y cultural.
Founder/Publisher Jenée Alicia Chizick Agüero Editors/Translators Michaela Choi, Anna Drake, Ariel Pichersky, Vera Senderowicz Guerra, Agustina Tullio Graphic Design Johanna Shane Rogayan, Jenette Sityar Contributing Writers Jorge Arturo Agüero, Andrea Ashcraft, Jenée Alicia Chizick Agüero, Michaela Choi, Eliezer Del Valle, Aaliyah Denofa, Jenevie Diaz, Faizah Fele, Karyme Font, Isata George, Pilar Gonzales, PhD, Sarah Levin, Kyree Mack, Ramses Montes, Eliot Olaya, Lizmary Ortiz, Kylee Padilla, Eugene Patrice, Fiorenza Petrozzi, Anthony Phillips, Trent Randle, Love Speech, Anayeli Tapia, Brigitte Zigglih Artwork/Photography Yohel Agüero, Jenée Alicia Chizick Agüero, APG Graphics, courtesy of Costa Rica Dive and Surf, Ajanae Davenport, courtesy of Girl Rising, Gianna Rose Padilla, Allan Mas, Ryan Powell, Isaac Rivers, Kayla Rosario, courtesy of Temple ROTC Youth Editorial Team Combs (Media Fellow), Faizah Fele, Desiree Fernandez, Karyme Font (Media Fellow), Isata George, Edgerin McArthur, Lizmary Ortiz (Media Fellow), Gianna Rose Padilla (Media Fellow), Steven Ramsey Jr., Trent Randle, Isaac Rivers, Love Speech, Anayeli Tapia, Brigitte Zigglih Cover Photo by Allan Salvation¡Les doy la bienvenida a la edición Libertad!
What an incredible and impressive historical survey of Motivos [referring to the 15th Anniversary Celebration]. So glad to be part of this exciting journey. Here’s to fifteen more years of accomplishment, affirmation, and inspiration! Always with you in spirit. De fuerza a fuerza.
~
~Rafael Levin, Intercultural Educator, Communications Consultant, Philadelphia, PA
I wanted to send you a sincere thank you for your work with our students on Wednesday. Your workshop got rave reviews, and we are so grateful. Thank you so much again for your time and excellent work with our students.
~ David November, Assistant Principal, 9th-12th, Mariana Bracetti Academy Charter School, Philadelphia, PA
Your support and the opportunities you have built with Motivos magazine are incredible. It’s a beautiful platform that I am proud to be a part of.
~ Charlie Suero, English teacher, children’s book author, Shanghai, China Aliene and Juan Carlos loved seeing themselves in the 15th anniversary issue of Motivos. We all did!
~ Rolando Sanchez, Aramingo BID Manager, IMPACT Services, Philadelphia, PA
Can’t wait to show my family what I wrote. Thanks again for this truly momentous chance to write for Motivos!
~ Eliot Olaya, recent graduate, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Thanks for all you do!
~Mike Pleasant, Host, Philly on the Rise TV show, Philadelphia, PA
We thoroughly enjoyed the Motivos visit and look forward to encouraging and supporting the students.
~
Albert Brown, Director of Admissions and Marketing, Esperanza College of Eastern University, Philadelphia, PA
I almost didn’t take your workshop, “Building Bonds to Strengthen Outcomes,” in Orlando at Foundation’s Inc. Beyond School Hours Conference because my area is not really that diverse. I thought, “We don’t need that.”
When I went and heard you talk, though, I learned that culture is so much more than the color of our skin, and I really got a lot out of it. Thank you so much!
~ Laura Tucek, Education Director, Boys & Girls Club of Lewistown, Lewistown, MT Send your comments to: feedback@motivosmag.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @motivosmag www.motivosmag.com
Ya no la busques en esa esquina oscura. Búscala en la colina, parada en la piedra más alta, recogiendo los últimos rayos del sol.
Ya no la busques en las multitudes. Búscala en todas las soledades posibles, donde no llegan los murmullos del traidor.
Ya no la busques en el ruido de las cosas complejas. Búscala en el silencio de las cosas sencillas.
Ya no la busques en tabernas ni trincheras, ahogándose en su propio miedo. Búscala en el vuelo de los pájaros, y en todos los letreros que griten “libertad”.
Ya no la busques. Hace mucho que dejó de esconderse.
Compiled through a partnership with Girl Rising
Girl Rising (GR) uses storytelling to change how the world values girls and their education. We know that educated girls are more likely to earn higher incomes, marry later, have healthier children, and lead more productive lives. Yet today, accord ing to UNICEF, 129 million girls worldwide are not in school. Girl Rising’s work aims to change attitudes and social norms around gender equity and education. Their programs help young people build their voices, garner agency, and strengthen belief in their capacity to change.
In the spring of 2022, Motivos magazine’s founder, Jenée Chizick-Agüero, and youth members of the Motivos Media
Mentorship Program participated in the pilot GR US Educator Cohort Program: a program for highly-motivated, passionate educators who see Girl Rising’s potential to energize and engage young people. The pilot included 21 educators from four states who designed and implemented educational tools while collaborating with and learning from fellow cohort members. The resulting innovation and creativity by members like ChizickAgüero and the commitment and hard work of the Motivos team have been inspiring. Read through page nine for some of the work produced during their outreach efforts.
Girl Rising (GR) utiliza relatos para cambiar el modo en que se valora a las chicas y su formación. Sabemos que las chicas formadas tienen más probabilidades de tener mayores ingresos, casarse más tarde, tener hijos más sanos y llevar vidas más productivas. Sin embargo, según UNICEF, hoy 129 millones de niñas de todo el mundo no asisten a la escuela. El trabajo de Girl Rising tiene como objetivo cambiar las actitudes y las normas sociales en torno a la equidad de género y la educación. Sus programas ayudan a jóvenes a desarrollar su voz, reunir voluntad y fortalecer la confianza en su capacidad para cambiar. En la primavera de 2022, la fundadora de la revista Moti vos, Jenée Chizick-Agüero, y los jóvenes miembros del Programa de
Tutorías de Medios de Motivos particip aron del programa piloto GR US Educa tor Cohort Program: una propuesta para docentes apasionados y altamente motivados que ven el potencial de Girl Ris ing para dar energía y participación a la juventud. El piloto incluyó a 21 docentes de cuatro estados, que diseñaron e implementaron herramien tas educativas mientras colaboraban y aprendían de otros miembros de la cohorte. Los aportes innovadores y creativos de miembros como ChizickAgüero y el compromiso y el arduo trabajo del equipo de Motivos han sido inspiradores. Sigue leyendo para conocer algunos de los traba jos de divulgación producidos.
• 100+ local community partners in 8 countries: Ghana, Guatemala, India, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan and the United States Más de 100 socios comunitarios en ocho países: Ghana, Guatemala, la India, Kenia, México, Nigeria, Pakistán y Estados Unidos.
• More than 5 million adolescents and almost 60,000 teachers reached per year
Más de cinco millones de adolescentes y casi 60.000 docentes alcanzados por año.
• Programs strengthen confidence, agency, empowerment, and decision-making for girls
Los programas fortalecen en las chicas la confianza, la voluntad, el empoderamiento y la toma de decisiones.
• Participants of all genders improve attitudes toward gender equality, enhance critical thinking skills, and strengthen their sense of local responsibility and global citizenship
Los participantes de todos los géneros mejoran su actitud hacia la equidad de género, su capacidad de pensamiento crítico y fortalecen su sentido de responsabilidad local y ciudadanía global.
Learn more at www.girlrising.org and scan the QR code or watch our videos here: https://tinyurl.com/5c9p6auz
“Educate me because I’m going to triumph and change the world.”
~ Senna
“Enséñame, porque voy a triunfar y cambiar el mundo.”
~ Senna
Happiness
These are things I’ll never get to know
Education
Something I won’t be able to understand
Fun and games
Stuff I’ll never get to enjoy
They are limiting a child who can make a difference, a change in our world.
They are taking away their rights as if they aren’t even human.
In their master’s eyes, they aren’t even children. But slaves who only deserve one plate of food…if that.
We can’t just sit here and do nothing about it. Raise awareness so everyone knows about this! Let others know what’s going on in our sick and twisted world. Let these girls know that there is hope for them and they aren’t alone.
Free them!
Let them enjoy their own lives! They are kids!!
They should be able to go to school and learn, and understand what we understand. Let’s not be blind,
TAKE ACTION!
Independence has always been used
A girl who knows what she wants And works hard to get it.
But independence has a whole new Then when I first heard it
Independence was doing things by myself And succeeding at it.
But now independence is The dependence of others. Thinking of those that depend on me Before I think about myself.
They tell me this is the struggle of First Gen students. Independence with dependence and expectation.
I don’t know if it gets easier But I must overcome it. It’s what I’ve been taught. As a First Gen, it is my duty.
So many loose ends Frayed And slightly battered. But within the struggle there is Power and Beauty.
Power and Beauty in the discovery of The meaning of independence and strength, Who I am, And the woman I want to be.
Chin up Shoulders back. I’m ready.
Watercolor Dancer. “I feel most free when I dance.” ~Gianna Padilla
Painting by Gianna Padilla, freshman, Arcadia University, Glenside, PA
There are labors of love before you Paths to walk People who will talk And doors already held open But it wasn’t always this way
Of paths not taken Of words unspoken And doors unopened Pushed against by many hands And you will change it too one day
To smooth the path you have taken To speak the words not yet spoken To find new doors Closed and not yet open And from behind you They will follow And say “Freedom”
She won’t turn down her voice to match the tone of your liking. Her choice of pastime will not be the one you chose, Because she is no longer held hostage by the expectations of her country. Her native land will always be crucial to her identity regardless of her experiences, Although the restrictions that were put upon her will on no account be missed.
She solely carved her own path in her country, A country overflowing with assumptions for a Latina woman.
My mother fought for the sake of her freedom, in hopes of improving freedom for later generations. With her teachings, I am aware that, “Those who wish to sing… will always find a song.”
No baja la voz para dar el tono de tu gusto. El pasatiempo de su elección no será el tuyo, porque ya no está cautiva de las expectativas de su país. Su tierra natal siempre será crucial para su identidad, más allá de sus experiencias, aunque las restricciones que le impusieron nunca serán olvidadas.
Ella sola se labró un camino en su tierra, un país desbordado de prejuicios para una mujer latina.
Mi madre luchó por su libertad, con la esperanza de una libertad mayor para las generaciones siguientes.
Con sus enseñanzas, sé que “quienes deseen cantar… siempre hallarán una canción”.
Freedom. Libertad. Depending on where you are and who you are, it can hold many different meanings, such as a good job opportunity or a chance to speak out about the injus tice in the world. For some, just being alive in good company is enough. All too often, however, freedom and the chance at obtaining it are being taken away.
At the time of writing this, some of my Motivos friends live in the same state—nearly the same city—as the location of a recent mass shooting. Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, and multiple other places have seen lives and freedoms taken. I, being an African American male, historically know about the struggles of the living. What I don’t know is how we can free ourselves from this senseless violence that increased its pace during the pandemic.
Every day is a blessing. In 2020, there were 19,384 gun murders in the United States, according to the Pew Research Center—the highest number of murders since 1968. Nearing the end of 2022, I fear what that number may become. I start all my prayers by praying for my friends, fam ily, and loved ones, those who are here and those who are not. I worry that some of those I care about the most may see their final days sooner than expected. I surely know that I don’t want to see a massive shooting occur near me.
Freedom isn’t what it used to be. There is, in a way, too much freedom; freedom of crime, freedom of hate and hate speech, freedom of downright bias and disrespect towards one another. I, for one, respect the older ideals of freedom: that we can learn together, exist together, and love together. Through being a part of the team that creates Motivos magazine and engaging in the Motivos Media Mentorship Program, I have been exposed to more loving stories and ways to help spread positive awareness about issues worldwide than I ever was in school.
The freedom we have is to choose. To learn. To grow. Not to commit crimes and end the lives of others, but to uplift those around us and be good people. You are free to do what you wish, and since not everyone in the world will see this, it may not shed light enough on these painful topics to stop them. But if nothing else, I want you to know that your Motivos familia cares about freedom and sends love to you all.
Libertad. Freedom. Según dónde estés y quién seas, puede tener muchos significados diferentes. Puede represen tar una buena oportunidad de empleo o la posibilidad de hablar sobre las injusticias del mundo. Para algunos, solo estar vivos y en buena compañía es suficiente. Con demasiada frecuencia, sin embargo, la libertad y su mera posibilidad están siendo arrebatadas.
Al momento de escribir esto, algunos de mis amigos de Motivos viven en el mismo estado (casi en la misma ciudad) donde hace poco se produjo un tiroteo masivo. Maryland, Pensilva nia, Nueva York y muchos otros lugares han sido testigos del arrebato de vidas y libertades. Yo, como varón afroamericano, conozco la historia de la lucha de los que viven. Lo que no sé es cómo podemos librarnos de esta violencia sin sentido que se aceleró durante la pandemia.
Cada día es una bendición. Según el Pew Research Center, en 2020 hubo 19.384 asesina tos con armas de fuego en los Estados Unidos, la mayor cantidad desde 1968. A mediados de 2022, me preocupa adónde puede llegar ese número. Comienzo todas mis plegarias orando por mis amigos, familiares y seres queridos, los que están aquí y los que no. Me preocupa que las personas que más me importan puedan ver sus últimos días antes de lo esperado. Sé con certeza que no quiero que ocurra un tiroteo masivo cerca de mí.
La libertad ya no es lo que solía ser. Hay, en cierto modo, demasiada libertad; libertad de delinquir, libertad de odiar y discursos de odio, libertad de parcialidad absoluta y falta de respeto hacia los demás. Yo, por mi parte, respeto los antiguos ideales de libertad: que podamos aprender juntos, existir juntos y amar juntos. Como parte del equipo que hace la revista Motivos y participando del Programa de Tutorías de Medios de Motivos, me he expuesto a historias de amor y formas de ayudar a difundir una conciencia positiva sobre los prob lemas del mundo más que nunca en la escuela.
La libertad que tenemos es la de elegir. Aprender. Crecer. No para cometer delitos y terminar con la vida de los demás, sino para aportar a quienes nos rodean y ser buenas personas. Eres libre de hacer lo que quieras, y dado que no todo el mundo verá esto, puede que no eche sobre estos dolorosos temas la suficiente luz para detenerlos. Pero al menos quiero que sepan que nuestra familia de Motivos se preocupa por la libertad y les envía amor a todos ustedes.
Photography by Kayla Rosario, junior, Community Academy Charter School, Philadelphia, PA About the Author Trent Randle is a writer, poet, social justice advocate and aspiring motivational speaker. He joined the Motivos editorial team mid 2020. Trent started practicing mindfulness and meditation in 2017 and has been dubbed ‘The Mindful Poet’ by his peers.Puerto Rican: I don’t have their hair color.
White: Look who’s trying to be black with those braids.
Mixed: Heat damage on top of heat damage, the discrimination after braids.
All: I have a voice.
Puerto Rican: How can you not handle heat, all Puerto Ricans can handle this type of heat.
White: I’m held back because of the past.
Mixed: Mixed lives create lies; in the past, there was little of my kind.
All: I need to be heard.
Puerto Rican: How are you Puerto Rican if you can’t speak Spanish?
White: I can’t play fight without being called “Massa.”
Mixed: Yes, I am mixed. Why can’t you understand?
All: I WISH WE COULD TAKE EACH OTHER’S PAIN.
“Our poem is a three-voice poem, showing the three perspectives of different races and what they go through. This is our perspective of freedom.”By Kylee Padilla, 9th grader, Maritime Academy Charter School; Aaliyah Denofa, 8th grader, Tacony Academy Charter School; and Jenevie Diaz, 7th grader, Community Academy of Philadelphia Charter School
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El camino de los egresados del programa de medios de Motivos
Allen [Williams] is the one who introduced me to Jenée sophomore year of high school. Though I was in a different internship in the tenth grade, I'm glad I changed my mind and joined Motivos; it shaped my high school career and continues to influence my life. I have always been interested in writing fiction, but working with a magazine was completely different, and it bolstered my skills in new ways.
Allen [Williams] fue quien me presentó a Jenée. Aunque estaba haciendo otra pasantía en décimo grado, me alegra haber cambiado de opinión para sumarme a Motivos. Eso dio forma a mi carrera en la secundaria y sigue influyendo en mi vida. Siempre me ha interesado escribir ficción, pero trabajar en una revista fue algo completamente diferente que renovó e impulsó mis habilidades.
I've always been interested in writing.
Siempre me ha interesado escribir.
In the tenth grade, I had the opportunity to travel to Honduras with Motivos. I was the only fifteenyear-old there; everyone else was in college. It was my first time leaving Philadelphia, and it was an exciting yet scary experience.
En décimo grado tuve la oportunidad de viajar a Honduras con Motivos. Con 15 años, era el más joven del contingente; todos los demás estaban en la universidad. Era la primera vez que salía de Filadelfia y fue una experiencia tan emocionante como aterradora.
I helped the children in Honduras build schools. While I was there, I had this huge perspective change. So many local orphans had terrible life experiences; at the time, it made me feel bitter about the world because I also thought I had a bad experience in life. But the kids showed up every day with smiles on their faces, so why shouldn't I? I adopted a more optimistic view on life while strengthening my drive to experience other cultures.
Ayudé a los niños de Honduras a construir escuelas. Mientras estuve allí, me cambió mucho la perspectiva. Muchos de los niños eran huérfanos y habían tenido experiencias de vida terribles; sentí amargura por el mundo, porque yo también la había pasado mal. Pero los niños llegaban cada día con una sonrisa en la cara, entonces, ¿por qué yo no? Adopté una visión más optimista mientras fortalecía mis ganas de vivir otras culturas.
Motivos helped me write phenomenal essays in both high school and college. Motivos me ha ayudado a escribir ensayos fenomenales tanto en la secundaria como en la universidad.
I first met Jenée more than 10 years ago when Motivos was in the basement of the Benjamin Franklin High School. I was looking for my Driver's Ed class when I accidentally walked in. Jenée was so friendly and full of energy, and when I asked if I could intern at the magazine, she said yes! I had so many great experiences during my time on the team.
Conocí a Jenée cuando Motivos funcionaba en el subsuelo de la secundaria Benjamin Franklin. Estaba buscando mi curso de Educación Vial y entré allí accidentalmente. Jenée era muy amistosa y tenía mucha energía. Cuando le pregunté si podía hacer una pasantía en la revista, ¡dijo que sí! Tuve muchas experiencias geniales mientras estuve en el equipo.
~ Sarah Levin, Chief Impact Officer, OnlySky Media, Los Angeles, CA
My other cover story was an interview with Christian Daniel, a Billboard-nominated artist from Puerto Rico. He was very humble, and we had a down-to-earth exchange entirely in Spanish. Had I not been a part of the Motivos team, I might not have ever spoken to him. This interview made me realize that I can help bridge the gap between celebrities and the rest of the world.
~
I hold two of my Motivos cover stories close to my heart. The first was about a class mate named Erica Rivera, who attended the Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush and inspired me with her photography. She had a lot to say about mental health, and I offered to write a story about her. That opportunity opened my eyes; it made me proud and showed me that I could help others through my writing.
Llevo en el corazón dos de mis artículos de portada en Motivos. El primero fue sobre una compañera de clase llamada Érica Rivera, que asistió a la Academia de Artes de Benjamin Rush y me inspiró con sus fotografías. Tenía mucho que decir respecto de la salud mental y me ofrecí a escribir un artículo sobre ella. Esa oportunidad me abrió los ojos; me dio orgullo y me hizo dar cuenta de que podía ayudar a los demás con mis textos.
Mi otro artículo de portada fue una entrevista con Christian Daniel, un artista puertorriqueño nominado a los premios Billboard. Él es muy humilde y tuvimos una conversación con los pies en la tierra completamente en español. Si no hubiera sido parte del equipo de Motivos, probablemente nunca habría hablado con él. Esa entrevista me hizo dar cuenta de que puedo ayudar a cerrar la brecha entre las celebridades y el resto del mundo.
I wrote three articles this year. One was about the experience of being a virtual student, where I interviewed my classmates. The second was A Slice of Culture, an account of a trip to Italy my mom and I took for my 18th birthday. I have traveled since I was young, first to Mexico, Peru, and now Italy. I believe broad ening your scope through travel is important, especially regarding minority communities.
Este año escribí tres artículos. Uno fue sobre la experiencia de ser estudiante virtual, para el que entrevisté a mis compañeros de clase. El segundo fue 'Una porción de cultura', un relato del viaje a Italia que hice con mi mamá cuando cumplí 18. He viajado desde niña, primero a México, luego a Perú y ahora a Italia. Creo que es importante ampliar la mirada a través de los viajes, en especial en lo que respecta a las minorías.
Traveling is food for the soul. It's the best thing you can do for yourself.
Viajar es alimento para el alma. Es lo mejor que puedes hacerte.
My last article, Wanderlust, captured my urge to travel; as an artistic person, I love to experience the depths of art and writing in other places. Traveling to Peru and seeing Machu Picchu made me proud of being His panic. I think every young Latino or Latina should experience their culture and history first hand, knowing it is deep and rich and that they are an essential part of it.
Mi último artículo, ‘Ganas de viajar', captura mi deseo; por mis inclinaciones artísticas, me encanta experimentar las profundidades del arte y la escritura en otros lugares. Viajar a Perú y ver Machu Picchu me hizo sentir orgullosa de ser hispana. Creo que todo latino y toda latina debería experimentar su cultura e historia de primera mano, sabiendo que es profunda y rica, y que cada uno es una parte esencial de ella.
Lizmary Ortiz, Class of 2023, Holy Family University, Philadelphia, PA
My life feels like a protracted game of Russian Roulette. This dangerous and unpredictable game began in Haiti in 1995, shortly after Hurricane Gordon devastated the island, killing over a thousand people. As I moved from my homeland of Haiti, education has been key to my search for safety, stability and freedom.
Following the destruction of Gordon, a power struggle between the Préval and Aristide presidencies and the looming threat of a military coup marked my childhood with instabil ity and violence. Then in 2001, my father’s relatives invited our large family of seven to stay with them in Florida. My parents did not hesitate to flee the chaos and uncertainty of Haiti for the American dream. Our newfound peace and security lasted a few days until, suddenly, my father abandoned us.
In my father’s absence, my aunt and uncle no longer treated us like family. Instead, we became undocumented bodies— easily controlled and abused. Immediately, strict rules were imposed on us: 1) no eating at the kitchen table, 2) no sitting on the furniture, and 3) no showering in the bathroom. Each morning, at the crack of dawn, my mom was now forced to bathe my four siblings and me on the front lawn, an experience that was humiliating and strenuous. Even in the Florida warmth, we were left shivering on the grass. My mom was then responsible for preparing and serving meals to everyone in the house. While my aunt, uncle, and cousins ate at an elegant countertop in the air-conditioned dining space, we were relegated to eating on the concrete garage floor.
I will never forget seeing my mom’s hands quiver ing with fear as she passed us our plates, her eyes filled with tears at the prospect
Patrice with undergradu ate degree from Eastern Connecticut State Uni versity, May 2020. His degree was financed by TheDream.US, a private organization that helps undocumented students access an undergraduate education.
Age: 27
Born In: Haiti Lives In: Philadelphia, PA Heritage: Haitian Education: Bachelor of Arts in English & Sociology, Eastern Connecticut State University 2020; Master of Arts in Sociology & Education, Columbia University, 2022; Ph.D. in progress at the University of Pennsylvania.
Awards and Achievements: Opportunity Scholarship, TheDream.US, 2016-2020; Senior Class President, Eastern Connecticut State University; fully-funded PhD from University of Pennsylvania.
Additional Community Work: Volunteer, Rise Against Hunger; Campaign Intern, Connecticut Working Families Party, 2017, where he helped a referendum to spend $112.3 million to renovate Windham High School in Willimantic, CT get passed.
Future Goal: Earn a Ph.D. in education, culture, and society (ECS) and a law degree and write legal scholarships on how U.S. laws impact undocumented students’ access to higher education, career trajectory, identity development, and social mobility, emphasizing those who identify as African and Black Caribbean.
Favorite Quote: “One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.” ~Sigmund Freud How to Connect: Email Patricejeugene@gmail.com
of continuing to exist in the dream-turned-nightmare that was this “Land of the Free.”
In the ensuing years, I realized that it was not coincidental that my childhood had been plagued with risk and danger. By design, marginalized and vulnerable communities like mine are oppressed by unjust rules or laws that individuals in positions of power strategically maintained. My early exposure to social and political inequity would also foreshadow an unusual transition to adulthood. Driving, voting, attending college, and entering the professional sphere are all common milestones that indicate achieving “adult” status within society. However, for me and
We became undocumented bodies—easily controlled and abused.
the other million or so young undocumented immigrants who grew up in this country, these milestones are often prohibited by unfair immigra tion laws that create a con stant state of panic, shame, exclusion, and low quality of life. I refuse to accept these conditions and have fought daily to find a solution.
I believe education is the solution. It is the key to under standing the convoluted laws that too often limit undocu mented people’s outcomes and quality of life. It is the best way to fix our broken immigra tion system and liberate fami lies like mine. For this reason, I have decided to pursue a doctoral program in education and hope to commence law school concurrently. My work will broadly examine the impact of US federal and state laws on undocumented students, emphasizing those who identify as African and Black Caribbean. I aim to become an expert in legal research, advocacy, and legislative reform.
Where can I apply myself so that my personal experience and professional talents will be maximized?
Often I grapple with my place in dismantling systemic inequity in the US and have pondered the question, “Where can I apply myself so that my personal experience and professional talents will be maximized?” I realize now that I do not have to choose between a JD or a PhD—I can pursue both. After all, I am both Haitian and American. Why can’t I be both a lawyer and an academic scholar?
With the power of educa tion, I can take control of my future and no longer be beholden to a dangerous game; I won’t leave my life up to chance or in someone else’s hands, and I hope to help other marginalized people to do the same.
Siento que mi vida es una larga ruleta rusa. Este juego peligroso e impredecible comenzó en Haití en 1995, poco después de que el huracán Gordon devastara la isla y matara a más de mil personas. Al dejar mi tierra natal hai tiana, la educación ha sido clave en mi búsqueda de seguridad, estabilidad y libertad.
Tras la destrucción del Gordon, una lucha de poder entre las presidencias de Préval y Aristide y la amenaza de un inminente golpe militar marcaron mi infancia con inestabilidad y violencia. Luego, en 2001, parientes de mi padre invitaron a nuestra gran familia (siete personas) a quedarnos con ellos en Florida. Mis padres no dudaron en cambiar el caos y la incertidumbre de Haití por el sueño americano. Sin embargo, nuestra nueva paz y seguridad duró unos días hasta que, de pronto, mi padre nos abandonó.
En su ausencia, mis tíos ya no nos trataron como familia. Pasamos a ser cuerpos indocu mentados, fácilmente controlables y abusados. Inmediatamente se nos impusieron reglas estrictas: 1) no comer en la mesa de la cocina, 2) no sentarnos en los muebles y 3) no ducha rnos en el baño. Cada mañana, al amanecer, mi madre se veía obligada a bañarnos a mí y a mis cuatro hermanos en el jardín delantero, una experiencia tan humillante como cansadora. Incluso con el calor de Florida, quedábamos temblando sobre la hierba. Mi mamá luego era responsable de preparar y servir la comida para todos. Mientras mis tíos y mis primos comían en una elegante barra en el comedor con aire acondicio nado, nosotros estábamos relegados a comer en el piso de concreto del garaje. Nunca olvidaré las manos de mi madre temblando de miedo al pasarnos los platos, sus ojos llenos de lágrimas ante la perspectiva de seguir existiendo en el sueño deve nido pesadilla que era este "país de la libertad".
Pasamos a ser cuerpos indocumentados, fácilmente controlables y abusados.
Mi exposición temprana a la inequidad social y política también presa giaría una transición inusual a la adultez. Conducir, votar, ir a la universidad e ingresar a la esfera profesional son hitos comunes del estatus de "adulto" dentro de la socie dad. Sin embargo, para mí y para más de un millón de jóvenes inmigrantes indocumentados que crecimos en este país, estos hitos a menudo están prohibidos por injustas leyes migra torias que generan un constante estado de pánico, vergüenza, exclusión y baja calidad de vida. Me niego a aceptar estas condiciones, y he luchado a diario para encontrar una solución.
Creo que la solución es la educación. Es la clave para entender las complicadas leyes que con demasiada frecuencia limitan el destino y la calidad de vida de las personas indocumentadas. Es la mejor manera de arreglar nuestro sistema migratorio quebrado y liberar a familias como la mía. Por esta razón, he decidido doctorarme en Educación y espero empezar a estudiar Derecho al mismo tiempo. Mi trabajo hará un amplio examen del impacto de las leyes federales y estatales de los EE. UU. sobre los estudiantes indocumentados, haciendo hincapié en aquellos que se identifican como africanos y caribeños negros. Mi objetivo es convertirme en un experto en investigación legal, defensa y reforma legislativa.
Para mí y para más de un millón de jóvenes inmigrantes indocumentados que crecimos en este país, estos hitos a menudo están prohibidos por injustas leyes migratorias que generan un constante estado de pánico, vergüenza, exclusión y baja calidad de vida.
En los años siguientes me di cuenta de que no eran casualidad los riesgos y peligros que habían plagado mi infancia. Por diseño, las comunidades marginadas y vulnerables como la mía son oprimi das por reglas o leyes injustas, mantenidas estra tégicamente por personas en posiciones de poder.
A menudo me cuestiono mi lugar en el desmantelamiento de la inequidad sistémica en los EE. UU. y he meditado sobre la pregunta: "¿Dónde puedo aplicarme para maximizar mi experiencia personal y mis talentos profesionales?".
Ahora me doy cuenta de que no tengo que elegir entre un JD o un PhD, puedo seguir ambos. Después de todo, soy tanto haitiano como estadounidense, ¿por qué no puedo ser a la vez abogado y académico?
Con el poder de la educación, puedo tomar el control de mi futuro y dejar de estar sujeto a un juego peligroso; no dejaré mi vida al azar o en manos de otros, y espero ayudar a otras perso nas marginadas a hacer lo mismo.
Patrice earned his master’s degree at Columbia University. May 23, 2022.
Dating, in general, is a complex subject in my house hold, but interracial dating only increases that complexity. I grew up fixated on dating within the same race as the only acceptable relationship, as that's what my peers and family were accustomed to. I found myself wanting something different, though. After all, a legacy doesn't end when it's mixed with another complex ion; it only strengthens the bond of unity between two or more ethnicities.
To overcome differences and share a bond like that with someone resembles the anastrophic effect of two worlds colliding to form one, where cultural backgrounds develop together as they head towards the future. I believe those bonds are more important than ever before. Being in an interracial relationship has taught me so much, but the most important lesson is that love should blossom despite the barrier of judgement.
I grew up pressured to find someone who looked like me, hoping to please my family. But now that I can stand tall enough to shake it off, I realize that as long as I love myself, it doesn't matter what my partner looks like. It doesn't matter if their skin tone matches mine, if they talk like me, or if they're the opposite of everything I am. Our love is all that matters.
Por Faizah Fele
Las parejas, en general, son un tema complejo en mi casa, pero las parejas intrarraciales lo son mucho más. Crecí obsesionada con la idea de que las únicas relaciones aceptables son las interraciales, ya que a eso estaban acostumbrados mis conocidos. Sin embargo, me encontré queriendo algo diferente. Al fin y al cabo, un legado no termina cuando se mezcla con otra tez; eso solo fortalece la unión entre dos o más etnias.
Superar las diferencias y compartir un vínculo así con alguien se parece al efecto de dos mundos que chocan para formar uno en el que los trasfondos culturales se desarrollan juntos mientras evolucionan. Creo que esos lazos son más importantes que nunca. He aprendido mucho de estar en una relación interracial, pero la lección más importante es que el amor debe florecer a pesar de los prejuicios.
Faizah Fele is a sophomore at Lincoln High School in Philadelphia, PA. She enjoys reading, writing and traveling and one day hopes to be united with her extended family once again.
Crecí presionada por encontrar a alguien que se pareciera a mí y tener la suerte de complacer a mi familia. Pero ahora que, con la frente en alto, puedo desentenderme de ello, me doy cuenta de que mientras me ame a mí misma no importa el aspecto de mi pareja. No importa si su tono de piel coincide con el mío, si habla como yo o si es todo lo contrario a mí. Lo único que importa es nuestro amor.
Illustration by Isaac Rivers, freshman, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
Iwas standing on the tallest hill in the park. It was a beautiful spring day: the wind blew through my hair, the air felt fresh, and the sun radiated warmth. In that instant, it felt like I could drift away in the wind. I wasn’t working or thinking about school, and I wasn’t stressed about deadlines or upcoming events. Mother nature and I were on top of the hill, becoming one.
The feeling I felt—free, strong, powerful—made me realize I could conquer any troubles I had or would come my way. It gave me a clear mindset to continue striving to be my authentic self. At that moment, I felt like the strongest person in the world, with nothing and no one able to knock me down.
I’ve stood on this hill before, but that day was different. Maybe it was because it was the first day of spring break, or perhaps it was simply the right place at the right time. I believe that finding your place of peace is the best way you can feel free.
Estaba parada en la colina más alta del parque. Era un hermoso día de primavera: el viento soplaba entre mi cabello, sentía el aire fresco y el sol irradiaba calidez. En ese instante, sentí que podía dejarme llevar por el viento. No estaba trabajando ni pensando en la escuela, no estaba estresada por entregas o eventos por venir. La madre naturaleza y yo estábamos en la cima de la colina, siendo una sola.
Al sentirme libre, fuerte y poderosa, me di cuenta de que podía vencer cualquier problema que tuviera o pudiera tener. Tuve ideas claras para seguir esforzándome por ser mi verdadera yo. En ese momento me sentí la persona más fuerte del mundo, sin nada ni nadie capaz de tirarme abajo.
Había estado en esa colina antes, pero ese día fue diferente. Quizás porque era el primer día de las vacaciones de primavera, o tal vez fue simplemente estar en el lugar correcto en el momento correcto. Creo que encontrar tu lugar de paz es la mejor manera de sentirte libre.
I felt like the strongest person in the world, with nothing and no one able to knock me down.
My friend and co-worker at the time, Edgar, told me a story about our hometown of Golfito. A pair of twins lived there, and they were so similar that there was only one way to tell them apart: one was born with a condition where he could hear but not speak.
The father of these boys made a long trip to San Jose, the capi tal of Costa Rica, for a specialist to check on his son. While they were on their way to the clinic, they passed an ice cream shop. The boy stopped and, pointing with his index finger, exclaimed, “Dad, ice cream!”
The delighted father looked for a public telephone (in those days, there were no cell phones) and called his wife to tell her what had happened...
His furious wife replied, “You are so careless; you took the wrong child!”
When I learned the theme of this edition was freedom, I thought about freedom of expression and remembered this story.
Regardless of how important it is to express our wants, needs, and boundaries, we must remember that we are not perfect. We are all different, and we must love and accept ourselves as we are.
The psychologist Dr. Marian Rojas Estapé often says that to work on our self-esteem, we must start with small goals; as these are fulfilled, our self-esteem and ambitions will grow.
Until next time!
Mi amigo y excompañero de trabajo Edgar, conocido como River, me contaba que en Golfito, nuestro pueblo natal, había unos gemelos tan parecidos que lo único que los distinguía era que uno había nacido sin la posibilidad de hablar, aunque escuchaba.
El padre de estos chicos hizo un largo viaje a la capital para que un especialista revisara a su hijo. Mientras iban camino a la clínica pasaron por una heladería. El niño, señalando con el dedo, exclamó:
—¡Papá, helados!
El padre, muy contento, buscó un teléfono público (porque en esa época aún no existían los celulares) y llamó a su esposa para contarle lo sucedido.
Ella, muy enojada, le respondió:
—¡Eres muy descuidado! ¡Te llevaste el niño equivocado!
Cuando me dijeron que el tema de ésta edición era la libertad, pensé en la libertad de expresión y recordé esta anécdota que escribí como chiste.
Sin importar de qué manera, es muy importante expresar lo que queremos, lo que nos gusta, lo que deseamos, nuestros límites para con nosotros mismos y para con los demás. Hay que recordar que no somos perfectos, que todos somos diferentes y tenemos diferentes capacidades, debemos de amarnos y aceptar nos como somos.
La Dra. Marian Rojas Estapé comenta que para trabajar en nuestro amor propio hay que empezar por pequeñas metas y pequeños objetivos, de manera que nuestra autoestima vaya creciendo a la par de nuestros logros.
¡Hasta la próxima!
My partner is taking on new hobbies. Should I be concerned they’ll lose interest in me?
Answer:
There is magic in a relationship when two indepen dent people come together to experience life with one another. Being a whole person in a relationship is one key ingredient. I’m defining a whole person as someone with their own likes and dislikes, interests, and passions. Having the freedom to be oneself allows for a healthy partnership.
Early in my relationship experiences, I thought my partner and I needed to be very alike, but I’ve learned after many years of marriage that those differences make our life together spicy! However, a couple does need to share similar interests—research shows that relationships with commonalities are more likely to have longevity, as the freedom to be oneself within the partnership increases the quality of the relationship.
So, allow your partner the freedom to be themselves. Encour age them to develop their interests and experience new things,
even if they are things you are not interested in. Don’t be afraid that they will lose interest in you; remember that finding unique interests will only enhance your partner and your rela tionship. While they’re at it, get out there yourself!
Mi pareja está sumando nuevos pasatiempos. ¿Debería preocu parme de que pierda interés en mí?
Cuando dos personas individuales se unen para experimentar la vida de a dos, hay magia. Ser una persona completa es un ingre diente clave de una relación. Por persona completa me refiero a alguien con lo que le gusta y lo que no le gusta, con sus intereses y pasiones. Tener libertad para ser uno mismo en la relación da lugar a una pareja saludable.
En mis primeras experiencias de pareja, pensaba que los dos teníamos que ser muy parecidos, pero después de muchos, muchos años de matrimonio comprendí que son las diferen cias las que le dan sabor a una vida com partida. Sí, una pareja necesita compartir intereses. Las investigaciones muestran que las parejas con cosas en común tienen más probabilidades de durar en el tiempo.
La libertad de ser uno mismo dentro de la pareja mejora su calidad.
Sin embargo, la libertad de ser uno mismo dentro de la pareja mejora su calidad.
Por lo tanto, permite que tu pareja tenga la libertad de ser como es. Aliéntala a desarrollar sus intereses y vivir cosas nuevas, incluso si no te interesan a ti. No tengas miedo de que pierda el interés por ti. Ten presente que así tu pareja y la relación estarán mejor. ¡Y sal al mundo tú también!
Pilar Gonzales, PhD, received her doctoral degree in counseling psychology from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. She currently works as a senior psychologist supervisor at a maximum-security forensic psychiatric hospital in California. She can be contacted via email at: Dr.Gonzales@juno.com.
Freedom to be oneself within the partnership increases the quality of the relationship.
f you’ve adopted an accusatory mindset lately, such as pre senting evidence of every mistake you’ve made and pros ecuting yourself daily for not measuring up to self-imposed unrealistic standards, here are two tips for setting yourself free:
Ask yourself, “What are the facts?”
If you find yourself spinning a web of assumptions of what other people think or say about you following a situation in which you didn’t put your best foot forward, catch yourself mid-spin and grab a piece of paper or a
Then, write out what you know for sure: what took place, what you said, and what the other person said
Once you move from your head to paper and assess what is true, you can take action based on than assumptions.
• When you’ve made a mistake or missed an opportunity, it’s easy to lock yourself in a prison of self-pity and dwell on what you “should have” said or done.
• But the situation is over. Now the best course of action is repair and reform.
• What will you change as a result of what occurred? What new perspective or behaviors will you adopt? What will you do to repair any damage to the relationship? How will you hold yourself accountable not to make the same mistake or miss a similar opportunity in the future?
Assumptions fan the flames of fear in our minds, burning up our energy and smoking out rational thoughts. When anxiety and fear make you feel trapped at the top of a burning building in your mind, facts provide the safety ladder to freedom.
Since how we treat ourselves impacts how we treat others, it’s likely your “I should have” will begin to morph into “they should have.”
critical of yourself and others, flip the switch from what could have been to what will be.
take steps to mend your relationships and move closer to your goals. This is the key to unlocking both your prison cell and the cell that you’ve held others captive in by wishing they would behave differently than they do.
Wishing you some incredible, freedom-filled months ahead!
Andrea Ashcraft is a conflict resolution expert. As a speaker and trainer, she helps others create mindset shifts, develop new habits, and live “Sunny Soul Up” to pursue their purpose no matter what life throws their way.
Sign up for her Sun Squad newsletter to get weekly SunnySoulUp life hacks in your inbox at www.andreaashcraft.com or simply scan the QR code.
Si últimamente has adoptado una posición acusatoria, por ejemplo, presentando evidencia de cada error que has cometido o censurándote todos los días por no estar a la altura de estándares poco realistas autoimpues tos, te doy dos consejos para liberarte:
1. Pregúntate: “¿Cuáles son los hechos?”
• Si te encuentras tejiendo una red de suposiciones sobre lo que otros piensan o dicen luego de una situación en la que no diste lo mejor de ti, detén los pensamientos y toma una hoja de papel o un post-it.
• Luego, escribe lo que sabes con certeza: lo que sucedió, lo que dijiste y lo que dijo la otra persona en el momento y/o después del incidente.
• Una vez que lo vuelques de la cabeza al papel y evalúes qué es verdad y qué no, puedes tomar medidas basadas en los hechos y no en suposiciones.
2. Reemplaza los "debería..." por "haré..."
• Tras cometer un error o perder una oportunidad, es fácil encerrarnos en una prisión de autocompasión y concentrarnos en lo que "deberíamos" haber dicho o hecho.
• Pero la situación ya terminó. Ahora lo mejor es reparar y reformar.
• ¿Qué cambiará como resultado de lo ocurrido? ¿Qué nueva perspectiva o comportamiento adoptarás? ¿Qué harás para reparar los daños a la relación? ¿Cómo controlarás no volver a cometer el mismo error o perder una oportunidad similar?
Las suposiciones avivan las llamas del miedo en la mente, nos consumen la energía y bloquean los pensam ientos racionales. Cuando por ansiedad y miedo te sientes atrapado en la azotea de un edificio en llamas, los hechos son la escalera de emergencia hacia la libertad.
Como la forma en que nos tratamos a nosotros mismos afecta el modo en que trata mos a los demás, es probable que los "debería haber hecho eso" comiencen a transfor marse en "deberían haber hecho eso".
Tan pronto como te des cuenta de que estás siendo demasiado crítico contigo mismo y con los demás, mueve el interruptor de lo que podría haber sido a lo que será.
Tan pronto como te des cuenta de que estás siendo demasiado crítico contigo mismo y con los demás, mueve el interruptor de lo que podría haber sido a lo que será.
Concéntrate en lo que está bajo tu control y toma medidas para reparar tus vínculos y acercarte a tus metas. Esta es la clave para abrir las puertas de tu prisión y las de aquella en que has encerrado a quienes quisieras que hagan algo distinto de lo que hacen.
¡Que los próximos meses sean increíbles y estén llenos de libertad!
I HAD TO LEAVE EVERYTHING BEHIND. I learned the word goodbye before any other word in the English language. I traveled a lot growing up, moving from countries, schools, friends, and even family for years. As time passed, I grew sick of the constant moving and instability—I wanted to finally be able to say “home sweet home” with the surety of it being permanent. So I told my parents I’d had enough of the isolation, the depression, and the loneliness of watching my friends turn into strangers. Luckily, I had family in America who could take me in, so I packed my bags, moved to a new continent, and started my life fresh for the last time.
~ Faizah Fele, sophomore, Abraham Lincoln High School, Philadelphia, PA
I FELT SO SMALL BUT SO INCREDIBLY FREE. Being truly alone just to go where I wanted was the most freeing experience I ever had. I had no headphones, so the city sounds became like pleasant background noise. I had no one to talk to, no one to call. So I thought as I walked. I laughed with myself. I looked around and noticed how beautiful everything was. I walked and walked until night fell and the cold air rolled in. I looked up and felt so small but so incredibly free.
~ Love Speech, senior, Kensington Creative and Performing Arts High School, Philadelphia, PA
When I am alone with no eyes on me, I am fully able to be myself. The idea that no one is around to judge me is comforting. I feel like no matter how much I try, I cannot fully show myself to the outside. One day, I hope to feel comfortable enough to be myself fully in front of someone. I encourage others to be themselves in their own space and connect with others who won’t judge them.
~ Isata George, senior, Girard College, Philadelphia, PA
Tell us about a time when you felt most free to pursue your dreams, speak your truth, or be authentically yourself. What advice do you have for others to create spaces and places where they can feel most free?FAIZAH
Do you thrive in team settings? Are you looking for a way to enhance your college or high school experience while acquiring lifelong leadership skills? Then you might be interested in Marlena Gordon's story. Marlena is a twenty-year-old political science major attending Temple University in Philadelphia, PA and is part of the ROTC program: the United States Military's college-based officer training program that helps students pay for school and trains the majority of officers in the United States Military.
The ROTC, or Reserve Officer Training Corps, was established by the National Defense Act of 1916 (alongside its high school-based equivalent, the JROTC or Junior Reserve Offi cer Training Corps) and is the nation's largest scholarship program. They offer competitive scholarships, which can help pay for some or all of a student's college costs.
Marlena's story begins at home. Grow ing up in Delaware, her mom was a massive influence. As a school principal, she imbued Marlena with a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of how college can help people fulfill their potential. "I feel like everyone in ROTC has each other's backs, but I feel like I got most of my leadership traits from my mom: she went and got her doctor ate. I got to see the mistakes she made and all the things she taught people under her in the past."
Carrying this energy with her throughout high school academics and basketball, Marlena started building the foundation to help her succeed; teamwork, perseverance, and devotion guided her to join the ROTC in her first semester at Temple. "In high school, I was an athlete, so I was used to the team mentality, you know, working together, being a part of some thing bigger than yourself."
It's okay to make mistakes; everybody's human. Just don't be scared to step out of your comfort zone or say the wrong thing.
While she faced many sudden decisions in her first semester, ROTC helped Marlena find her place in college and within herself. "When I first came to Temple, I was actually a health profes sions major. I had switched over from a political science major because I wasn't really sure about ROTC or where I was taking my career. After doing a semester of ROTC and health professions, I realized that I really do enjoy reading about political science, and that's something I wanted to do. Also, I found out that I enjoyed ROTC, and it's definitely something I want to do for my career."
But what do you need going into ROTC, and what skills do you learn? "Being accountable to yourself," says Marlena. "You need the right tools, to be on time, to have the right uniform. And the biggest thing you get out of it is leadership. Yes, you learn tactics, you learn
Cadet Gordon had this to say about her experience at US Army Airborne School:
“Airborne is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had since joining ROTC. In three weeks, I was able to learn and build the courage to jump out of an aircraft. It has taught me that I am capable of anything and to trust my abilities. In the future I hope to inspire others to push for their goals, and see that they are capable of anything. Trust yourself. Trust your training. And reach for the sky.”
Yes, you learn tactics, you learn how to use weapons, but really the biggest thing you learn is leadership.
how to use weapons, but really the biggest thing you learn is leadership."
Marlena's own ROTC experience has been heavily entwined with leadership and the flourishing of her voice. When she first joined ROTC, she was shy and unaccustomed to public speaking. "After being here for a little while and getting out of my comfort zone, ROTC made me learn how to brief. You basically have to give everyone a run down. I had to speak one-on-one; I had to
speak to the entire battalion. It was so nerve-wracking, but now I don't even think about it."
I had to speak to the entire battalion. It was so nerve-wracking, but now I don't even think about it.
In your life and career, having the confidence to know what you want to do and follow through with it is an incredible skill. Marlena's advice for all our readers—whether or not they're interested in ROTC—is, "Be confident in yourself and what you learned. It's okay to make mistakes; every body's human. Just don't be scared to step out of your comfort zone or say the wrong thing."
e va bien trabajando en equipo? ¿Buscas mejorar tu experiencia en la universidad o la secundaria mientras sumas habilidades de liderazgo para toda la vida? Enton ces puede interesarte la historia de Marlena Gordon. Marlena tiene 20 años, estudia Ciencia Política en Temple University, en Filadelfia, PA, y es parte del pro grama ROTC de capacitación de oficiales universita rios de las Fuerzas Armadas de los Estados Unidos, que ayuda a los estudiantes a pagar su matrícula y forma a la mayoría de los oficiales estadoun idenses.
El ROTC, o Cuerpo de Entrenamiento de Oficia les de Reserva, fue creado por la Ley de Defensa Nacional de 1916 (junto con su equivalente para la escuela secundaria, el JROTC o Cuerpo de Entre namiento de Oficiales de Reserva Junior) y es el programa de becas más grande del país. Ofrece becas competitivas, que cubren total o parcial mente los costos universitarios de los estudiantes.
adónde iba a llevar mi carrera. Tras un semestre de ROTC y Salud, me di cuenta de que disfruto mucho leer sobre ciencia política, y que quería hacer eso. Además, descubrí que me gustó el ROTC y supe que era algo que quería para mi carrera".
Sí, aprendes tácticas, aprendes a usar armas, pero lo más importante que aprendes es liderazgo.
Pero, ¿qué se necesita para ingresar al ROTC y qué se aprende? "Ser responsable contigo mismo", dice Marlena. "Necesitas las herramientas adecua das, llegar a tiempo, tener el uniforme adecuado. Y lo más importante que obtienes es liderazgo. Sí, aprendes tácticas, aprendes a usar armas, pero lo más importante que aprendes es liderazgo".
Tenía que hablar a todo el batallón. Fue muy estresante, pero ahora ni siquiera lo pienso.
La historia de Marlena comienza en su casa. Durante su infancia en Delaware, su madre fue una gran influencia. Directora de escuela, trans mitió a Marlena una sólida ética de trabajo y una profunda com prensión de cómo la universidad puede ayudar a que las personas alcancen su potencial. "Siento que en el ROTC todos se apoyan mutuamente, pero creo que la mayor parte de mi liderazgo lo tomé de mi madre: ella avanzó hasta doctorarse. Pude ver los errores que cometió y todo lo que les enseñó a quienes dependían de ella".
Llevando esta energía consigo durante sus estudios y el balon cesto secundario, Marlena comenzó a cimentar su éxito; el trabajo en equipo, la perseverancia y la devoción la guiaron a unirse al ROTC en su primer semestre en Temple. "En la secundaria era deportista, así que estaba acostumbrada a la mentalidad de equipo, a trabajar junto a otros siendo parte de algo más grande que uno".
Está bien cometer errores; somos humanos. Nada más, no temas salir de tu zona de confort o decir algo incorrecto.
Si bien enfrentó muchas decisiones repentinas en su primer semestre, el ROTC ayudó a Marlena a encontrar su lugar en la universidad y para sí. "Cuando llegué a Temple, en realidad tenía un major en Salud. Me había cam biado de un major en Ciencia Política porque no estaba segura sobre el ROTC o
La propia experiencia de Marlena en el ROTC ha estado fuertemente entrelazada con el liderazgo y el florecimiento de su voz. Cuando se unió al programa era tímida y no estaba acostumbrada a hablar en público. "Después de estar aquí por un tiempo y salir de mi zona de confort, aprendí a informar. Básicamente, tienes que darles a todos un resumen. Tenía que hablar uno a uno; tenía que hablar a todo el batallón. Fue muy estresante, pero ahora ni siquiera lo pienso".
En tu vida y tu carrera, tener la confianza de saber lo que quieres hacer y cumplirlo es una capacidad increíble. El consejo de Marlena para todos nuestros lectores, estén interesados en el ROTC o no, es: "Confía en ti y en lo que aprendiste. Está bien cometer errores; somos humanos. Nada más, no temas salir de tu zona de confort o decir algo incorrecto".
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About the Author
By Anthony Phillips
President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan is a sig nificant down payment on economic opportunity for young Americans, but it is not enough.
For the last 10 years, I have counseled hundreds of predomi nantly Black and Latino students in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware on college access. As impactful as I know the president’s action will be, there are some fundamental things that we can do right now as a society to address college financing before young people are shackled by onerous educational debt.
For one, too many American students leave too much money on the table. More prudent counseling before students make
choices about their college should happen. At TeenSHARP, where I am the director of pre-college programs, we spend countless hours scop ing out the right financial college choice.
Philadelphia-area residents average $40,000 a year in debt, making it difficult for college graduates to buy a home, start a family, and invest in innovative solutions that can transform our economy. When I was born in 1989, the cost of attending college at the University of Penn sylvania was close to $15,000. Today the cost of attending Penn is well over $80,000 a year. Student debt is astronomical these days. Getting up to $20,000 in debt relief will most likely end debt for many Philadelphians; however, what is needed is a more comprehensive solution.
What I suggest is a debt-free college advising model that works—one that I use every day with students.
1Provide an advising model for free to first-generation stu dents and low-income Black and brown families, comparable to what one might get from a private college admissions consultant or a college adviser at an elite boarding school.
2Push students to develop systems for academic excellence. Advocate for students to take the most rigorous courses in their high school, encourage them to strengthen their leadership involvement, and place them in premier enrichment opportunities.
3Constantly give students academic and leadership feedback, and work with their families to strategize how they can be ready to attend and thrive at a college that meets their full financial needs.
4Provide a federally funded office of college enrollment for school districts that qualify for free lunches so there is trained and qualified staff to shepherd students through the process of making college affordable.
In these ways, we can prepare students to attend colleges— often selective schools—with large endowments that can fully fund their education.
El plan de condonación de préstamos estudiantiles del presidente Joe Biden es un significativo adelanto en las oportunidades económicas de los jóvenes estadounidenses, pero no es suficiente.
En los últimos 10 años, he asesorado a cientos de estudiantes, predominantemente negros y latinos, en Pensilvania, Nueva Jersey y Delaware acerca del acceso a la universidad. A pesar del impacto que sé que tendrá la medida del presidente, hay cosas fundamen tales que podemos hacer ahora mismo como sociedad para tratar el financiamiento universitario antes de que los jóvenes queden encadenados a una onerosa deuda educativa.
Por un lado, muchísimos estudiantes estadounidenses dejan muchísimo dinero sobre la mesa. Los estudiantes deberían ser asesorados de forma más prudente antes de tomar decisiones sobre sus estudios. En TeenSHARP, donde dirijo los programas preuni versitarios, dedicamos incontables horas a buscar la universidad financieramente más adecuada para cada quien.
Too many American students leave too much money on the table.
Los residentes del área de Filadelfia, PA, por ejemplo, deben un promedio de $40.000 al año, lo que dificulta a los graduados comprar una casa, formar una familia e invertir en innovaciones que transformen nuestra economía. En 1989, cuando yo nací, asistir a la Universidad de Pensilvania costaba cerca de $15.000. Hoy, el costo supera con creces los $80.000 al año. La deuda estudiantil hoy en día es astronómica. Una condonación de hasta $20.000 probablemente liquidaría la deuda de muchos filadelfianos; sin embargo, lo que se necesita es una solución integral.
Lo que sugiero es un modelo de asesoramiento para una educación universitaria sin deudas, uno que funcione, como el que uso todos los días con los estudiantes.
Complied by Brigitte Zigglih, senior, Girard College, Philadelphia, PA
Ofrecer un modelo de asesoramiento gratuito para estudiantes de primera generación y de familias negras y morenas de bajos ingresos, comparable al que se podría recibir de un consul tor de admisiones en una universidad privada o un asesor universitario en un internado de élite.
QuestBridge Regular Decision Scholars Program Amount/Cantidad: Full Tuition Criteria/Criterios: Be a current high school senior in the US, regardless of citizenship. Can also be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident living abroad. Excel academically (top 5% or 10% in class) and be the first generation in the family to attend a four-year US college. Household income should be under $65,000 a year; often less for a typical family of four with minimal assets. Eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. Candidate has a strong personal character and unusually high level of family responsibility (caring for siblings, part-time work to support family financially, etc.). These are NOT strong cut-offs or absolute. Deadline/Fecha Límite: December 11th, 2022 Contact/Contacto: questions@questbridge.org, (888) 275-2054, AskQB
Impulsar a los estudiantes a desarrollar sistemas para la excelencia académica. Alentar que los estudiantes tomen los cursos más rigurosos en su secundaria, animarlos a fortalecer su participación en roles de liderazgo y colocarlos en oportunidades de enriquecimiento de primer nivel.
3Dar constantes devoluciones a los estu diantes sobre su desempeño académico y liderazgo, y trabajar con su familia en el diseño de estrategias para poder asistir y pros perar en una universidad acorde a sus necesidades económicas.
Ron Brown Scholars Program Amount/Cantidad: $40,000 ($10,000 each year) Criteria/Criterios: Must be Black/African American. Must excel academically. Must exhibit exceptional leadership potential. Must participate in community service activities. Must demonstrate financial need. Be a US citizen or hold a Permanent Resident Visa Card. Be a current high school senior at the time of application. NOTE: Current college students are not eligible to apply. Deadline/Fecha Limite: January 9th, 2023 Contact/Contacto: 434-964-1588, info@ronbrown.org
Abrir una oficina de inscripción univer sitaria financiada con fondos federales para los distritos escolares que califican para almuerzos gratuitos, con personal calificado que oriente a los estudiantes hacia estudios uni versitarios asequibles.
Así podremos preparar a los estudiantes para que asistan a universidades, a menudo selectivas, que cuentan con grandes donaciones capaces de costear toda su educación.
Jackie Robinson Scholarship 2022-2023 Amount/Cantidad: Up to $35,000 over four years Criteria/Criterios: Be a graduating, minority high school senior. Be a US citizen. Present evidence of financial need. Demonstrate a record of academic excellence. Demonstrate leadership potential and a dedication to community service. Submit an official SAT and/or ACT score from junior or senior year*. Plan to attend an accredited and approved four-year college within the United States or affiliated with a United States-based college or university. Have not accrued more than 25% of the credits needed to graduate from college. Deadline/Fecha Límite: January 11th, 2023 Contact/Contacto: (212) 290-8600, connect@jackierobinson.org
The Scholarship for Journalism Diversity Honoring Julie Schoo Amount/Cantidad: $5,000 one-year scholarship Criteria/Criterios: Be a high school senior in applying for admission to an accredited college or university in the US. Have a 3.0 GPA or higher. Plan to pursue a career in journalism. Students do not need to be US citizens to apply for this scholarship. The award can be renewed for up to three years, for a total of $20,000 toward educational expenses. Deadline/Fecha Limite: Opens January 2023 Contact/Contacto: https://www.pressclubinstitute.org/about/, 202-664-7523
Anthony Phillips holds degrees from Bates College and Yale University and is the founder of Youth Action, a youth leadership nonprofit organization and is the director of precollege programs at TeenSHARP, an organization that prepares under-resourced youth for success at selective colleges and universities. Find our more about how you can get involved with TeenSHARP at https://www.teensharp.org/.
McDonald’s Hacer Scholarship Amount/Cantidad: Up to $100,000 Criteria/Criterios: Be a high school senior, legal US resident, and younger than 21 years old with a minimum 2.8 GPA. Be eligible to attend a two- or four-year college or university with a full-time course of study. Must disclose applications to other scholarship programs. Enroll in and attend an accredited institution in the academic year after selection (verification needed, as scholarship funds are paid directly to the schools). Have at least one parent of Hispanic heritage. Deadline/Fecha Limite: TBA, will most likely be within the first half of 2023 Contact/Contacto: https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/hacer-newsletter.html
Additional websites: adelantefund.org bestcolleges.com educationplanner.org cappex.com collegescholarships.org fastweb.com
hispanicfund.org hsf.net mycollegeoptions.org myscholly.com raise.me
scholarships-for-school.com scholarships.com studentscholarships.org upromise.com zinch.com/scholarships
If you’re searching for adventure and excitement, enjoy work ing with both people and in nature, then pursuing your dive certification may be an excellent option that can really take you places!
Motivos recently interviewed Willy Vargas, one of the own ers of Costa Rica Dive and Surf, on site in Uvita, Costa Rica, as we explored exciting careers worldwide. He offered insight into what drives his passion for diving, how dive shops can help with ocean conservation efforts, and what career oppor tunities come with obtaining dive certifications.
When asked about his passionate journey to dive shop ownership, he replied, “I’ve been working in adventure tourism for a long time: bungee jump ing, rock climbing, white-water rafting, zip-lining. But to be honest, I’ve always been in love with the ocean. The ocean is very interesting and unknown; you can tell we have a lot in common with the ocean. We are mostly water!
“I started diving about 12 years ago. About eight years ago [my partner] called me to be part of Costa Rica Dive and Surf. We transformed the brand and the company; I put in a lot of effort and became one of the own ers. Since we have a dream, we have to make it real. Our goal is to become the number one dive shop in Costa Rica.”
Vargas wants to attract adventurous souls to the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica. While many tourists head north, the stretch of South Pacific Costa Rica coastline from Dominical to Ojochal,
known as the Costa Ballena, is swiftly becoming one of the hot test destinations in Costa Rica. This area is more remote, with pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, untouched rainforest and easy access to Caño Island.
Exploration goes hand-in-hand with his occupation, but Vargas notes that diving is also about conservation. Specifically, he mentions Caño Island, a biological reserve with the highest level of environmental protection in Costa Rica and where his company regularly takes divers. Caño Island has been protected since 1972 and is a prime diving destination. Fifty years of protection have kept one of the longest and healthiest coral formations in the Pacific in pristine condition. “When you protect something, you know it has value. You visit the island, and you see why. You feel happy because you can see all these ecosystems are super healthy.”
Obtaining a high level of dive certification can take time, but there are immediate ways to get involved with ocean conservation. In addition, if you work for a dive shop, it may open opportuni ties to dive for lower cost and to gradually work toward your dive certifications while participating in conserva tion efforts. “In Costa Rica, there are many different organiza tions working together with the dive centers that do marine conservation: growing coral, sea turtle conservation, beach clean up - all these kinds of things that people can join where you don’t necessarily have to be a certified diver,” Vargas told us.
Working in a dive shop like Costa Rica Dive and Surf can offer many career opportunities emphasizing travel, teaching, and freedom.Photography courtesy of Costa Rica Dive and Surf
Trained divers can be very helpful with ocean conservation projects and dive training around the world. Diving opens you up to new destinations, meaningful experiences, and the freedom to pursue work or volunteer opportunities worldwide. “The dive industry actually helps many people around the world to find a path in this world full of unknown things to discover. If you decide to continue with your education, you get to travel a lot because there’s so many dive shops around the world. Why not go to Australia? Why not go to Bora Bora? The dive industry’s open. People are diving a lot, and there’s so much work.”
Working in a dive shop like Costa Rica Dive and Surf can offer many career opportunities emphasizing travel, teaching, and freedom. But in the end, the dive community becomes like fam ily: “You go to a dive shop, and it feels like home.”
PADI is the world’s leading scuba diver organization operating in 6,600 PADI Dive Centers and Resorts in 186 countries and territories.
Si buscas aventura y emoción, certificarte en buceo puede ser una excelente opción para conocer un mundo nuevo. Motivos entrevistó hace poco a Willy Vargas, uno de los dueños de Costa Rica Dive and Surf, en Uvita, Costa Rica, mien tras explorábamos carreras emocionantes por todo el mundo. Él nos contó qué impulsa su pasión por el buceo, cómo los centros de buceo pueden ayudar en la conservación oceánica y qué oportuni dades profesionales tienen asociadas las certificaciones en esta práctica.
Cuando le preguntamos sobre su apasionante recorrido hasta tener un centro de buceo, Vargas respondió: “He estado traba jando en turismo de aventura durante mucho tiempo: bungee jumping, escalada, rafting en rápidos, tirolesa... pero la verdad es que siempre he estado enamorado del océano. El océano es tan interesante como desconocido; y tenemos mucho en común con él. ¡Somos principalmente agua!
“Empecé a bucear hace unos 12 años. Hace unos ocho años [mi socio] me llamó para ser parte de Costa Rica Dive and Surf. Transformamos la marca y la empresa; puse mucho trabajo y me
convertí en uno de los dueños. Y como tenemos un sueño, debe mos hacerlo realidad. Nuestro objetivo es ser el centro de buceo número uno en Costa Rica”.
Vargas quiere atraer almas aventureras a la costa pacífica sur de Costa Rica. Aunque muchos turistas se dirigen al norte, el tramo costero desde Dominical hasta Ojochal, conocido como costa Ballena, se está convirtiendo rápidamente en uno de los destinos más populares del país. Esta región es más remota, tiene playas vírgenes, diversidad de vida sil vestre, una selva intacta y fácil acceso a la isla del Caño.
Vargas quiere atraer almas aventureras a la costa pacífica sur de Costa Rica.
buceo también es conservar Explorar va de la mano con su ocupación, pero Vargas dice que el buceo también es conservar. En particular, menciona la isla del Caño, una reserva biológica con el más alto nivel
El
de protección ambiental en Costa Rica y donde su empresa suele llevar a los buzos. La Isla del Caño está protegida desde 1972 y es un destino de buceo privilegiado. Cincuenta años de protección han mantenido en perfectas condiciones una de las formaciones de coral más extensas y saludables del Pacífico. “Cuando proteges algo, es porque tiene valor. Al visitar la isla ves la razón. Da felicidad ver que todos estos ecosistemas son súpersaludables”.
Obtener una certificación de alto nivel en buceo puede llevar tiempo, pero hay formas de involucrarse en la conservación de los océanos de inmediato. Además, si trabajas para un cen tro de buceo, puedes tener la oportunidad de avanzar hacia tus certificaciones mientras par ticipas en la conservación natural. “En Costa Rica hay muchas organizaciones que trabajan junto a los centros de buceo en la conservación marina: cultivo de corales, conservación de tortugas marinas, limpieza de playas... a todas estas actividades la gente puede sumarse sin necesidad de ser buzo certificado”, dice Vargas.
Los buzos experimentados pueden ayudar en la conservación de los océanos y enseñando buceo donde lo deseen. El buceo te ofrece nuevos destinos, experiencias significativas y la libertad de buscar oportunidades laborales o de voluntariado en todo el mundo. “El buceo ayuda a muchas personas a encontrar un camino en este universo lleno de cosas por descubrir. Si decides avanzar en tu formación, puedes viajar mucho, porque hay muchos centros de buceo en todo el mundo. ¿Por qué no ir a Australia? ¿Por qué no Bora Bora? La industria del buceo está abierta. Hay mucha gente buceando y hay mucho trabajo.”
El buceo te ofrece nuevos destinos, experiencias significativas y la libertad de buscar oportunidades laborales o de voluntariado en todo el mundo.
Trabajar en un centro de buceo como Costa Rica Dive and Surf puede dar muchas oportunidades profesionales con foco en los viajes, la enseñanza y la libertad. Pero al final, la comunidad del buceo se vuelve como una familia: “Vas a un centro de buceo y te sientes como en casa”.
¡Toma un curso Discover Scuba o certifícate para aguas abiertas en PADI! Descubre más aquí: https://www.padi.com/
Puedes trabajar en un centro/ escuela de buceo, un acuario, un resort de buceo, en un barco para buceo, en tiendas de equipo de buceo y en cruceros.
