Hi! My name is Dara, I’m 17 years old, and I’m currently in Grade 12 student at Dr. Charles Best Secondary School. This is my fourth year being part of Social Responsibility, and it’s been really cool seeing how much I’ve changed and grown since I first joined.
A little about me
I grew up in a Hispanic household, more specifically Mexican, and one thing I really love about my culture is the warmth of the people. Even if you don’t know someone, they’ll still say hi, talk to you, or treat you with kindness. There’s just something about that feeling of community that I really appreciate. It’s very different from what I’m used to seeing here, where people can sometimes feel more distant.
But it’s also been really fun learning how similar and different cultures can be. No matter how different we might be, we can always find something to connect over, whether that’s hobbies or interests.
Another thing that is different is that my family and everyone in Mexico never really celebrate Halloween. Christianity is a big part of Hispanic heritage, and in Mexico, many people celebrate Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. It’s a tradition where people remember loved ones who have passed away through pictures, flowers, and offerings. However, my family and I don’t celebrate either Halloween or Día de los Muertos. As Christians, we believe we shouldn’t participate in things we associate with darkness, so we choose not to celebrate these traditions. Even though it my seem like a nice tradition its more than what we see surface level.
What I’m Passionate About
Something that has become a really important part of who I am is working with kids. I love teaching them, but more than that, I love making them feel seen and reminding them that they matter. That’s a big reason why I’m a Sunday school teacher at my church and also coach younger kids in soccer. I’ve realized that I really enjoy being someone who can encourage kids and make them feel comfortable being themselves.
My Community
To me, community isn’t just being around a group of people. It’s about actually caring about the people around you. I try to be someone who contributes to my community by helping, listening, encouraging others, and simply being there when someone needs it.
Outside of school and volunteering, I love playing soccer, watching movies, having Bible studies with my friends, and spending time with my family. When I need to relax, I usually end up reading my Bible or talking with the people I’m closest to.
Butterfly Effect
I joined Butterfly because I’ve always enjoyed being involved and finding ways to help people. This year, I’m especially interested in action because i find its the best way to stay active and make a difference with your community. I’m hoping this year gives me a chance to keep growing, meet new people, and hopefully make a difference in someone else’s life too.
– Dara
