# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong to the Cheer Dance Team!

Chisato Horinaga

Howard Wood Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement

I am part of the cheer team. I practice a lot and work together to make a nice team. At Wood Elementary, I want to make everyone happy with cheer dance.

Back ground music is 5,6,7,8-Steps

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Golden

Itsyana Shah

Seaside Elementary School

Grade: 2

Artist Statement:

The song makes me think about how I belong. The person used to hide but now she believes in herself and is shining. She Belongs. My dance makes me happy and makes me believe in myself and i feel i belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

Dance on Ice

Jeanette Setyono

Walteria Elementary School

Grade: 1

Artist Statement

I like to skate on ice. It is one of my favorite things to do on ice. I like to practice; I love making up my own moves. I still remember my first class when it was called beach baby. I still remember when I was skating holding my dad hands during my baby class, and I love it. I enjoy dance on ice and that is why in this reflection I decide to do dancing on the Ice theme I belong to.

This is me - The greatest showman

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Living Like I Belong

Shiloh McIntyre

Fern Elementary School

Grade: 5

Artist Statement:

My piece for Reflections 2025 contest is called "LIVING LIKE I BELONG". The dance is about if you are different, accept that! Also when I say different I mean in many ways, for example different skin color, culture, eye color, hair type, etc. Another thing about this dance is to accept yourself and you shouldn't change who you are if somebody doesn't like you for you! I feel like this dance relates to the theme because the theme is I belong and that is what the dance is all about! Lastly, my piece relates to the theme because this dance and piece can inspire people to feel like they belong more. Which I feel like that one of committees goal to make the world a better place.

Details:

First things first, for my reflections pieceI, Shiloh McIntyre choreographed my dance to the music by Katseye - My Way. After I was done with that part, Me and my father went to the park so we can record and get a pretty background. We took multiple clips to find the right video and after that we went to go edit. My dad edited using Final cut software and adding the sound from youtube.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

My Own Way

Sienna Mielke

Arlington Elementary School

Grade : 5

Artist Statement:

I chose to choreograph my dance to the song "A Place in This World" by Taylor Swift because to me it represents knowing that there is a place where I belong, even though it may take a while for me to find it. I may make mistakes along the way, but I have to be strong and not let that destroy my self-confidence. I should not keep trying to live up to people's expectations of perfection. I have to take risks and go on my own path to learn who I truly am and where I belong.

Details:

Song: "A Place in This World" by Taylor Swift

# data[].attributes.body
Honorary Mention

The Rhythm Where I Belong

Poorvi Dhanaraj

Hickory Elementary School

Grade: 3

Artist Statement:

My dance- The Rhythm Where I Belong, shows how I feel connected to my culture and my family.

When I dance Bharatanatyam, I feel proud and happy because it’s a part of who I am.

Each hand movement, step and expression helps me tell a story about love, respect and belonging.

Through this dance, I show that no matter where I go, my traditions and heart remind me — I belong.

Details:

Pushpanjali devotional song- jathi dance form used

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong Even When I Feel I Don't

Stella Woods

Jefferson Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

It's easy to feel like you are the outsider or an imposter in the world. Sometimes I feel like I don't belong in a group where I want to be liked. I try to remember that we are all looking to be accepted. We want people to care about us. And I can create belonging for myself and others by accepting people who they are.

Details:

I choreographed this dance to the song "Go the distance."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
ReflectionsDanceEntry2025_IBelong (3) (1) (1) - Jefferson Jaguar.mov

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

The Anonymous Ones

Katrina Hetrick

Richardson Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

I choreographed my dance to this song to call attention to a huge problem for kids and teens - mental health issues. So many teenagers hide their struggles, and I want them to know that they're not alone. We all belong, and we all deserve to get the help that we need.

Details:

"The Anonymous Ones" - Dear Evan Hansen Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, performed by Amandla Stenberg. I did not use AI at all for any of this entry. I found the song while listening to the Dear Evan Hansen soundtrack on Spotify and it inspired me to create this dance for the Reflections competition. I figured out what steps I wanted to have at the important moments in the song and then worked on different ways to connect them to each other. My mom filmed me when I danced in the studio and we used her editing software on the computer so I could include my artist statement and make the audio sound better.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Caroline Hetrick Reflections 2025-26 - Katrina Hetrick.mp4

# data[].attributes.body
Honorary Mention

A Dance to Belong

Jydus Jam

Bert Lynn Middle School

Grade 6

Artist Statement:

My ballet dance shows Ariel from Disney’s The Little Mermaid and her journey to find where she belongs. I start with soft and slow movements to show how she feels lost, then I dance stronger and brighter to show her courage and hope. I wanted people to feel her story through my dance. I chose “Part of Your World” because I really connect with Ariel’s story. She feels different living under the sea and dreams of belonging on land. When I dance, I imagine Ariel finding her place, and I find mine too!

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

From Chaos to Calm - I Belong

Tania Ralhan
West High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

In a world where fear often outruns our dreams, my ballet begins with joy—no fear, only freedom. Then I fall. Panic takes over, mirroring how life can break us. As I reach upward, an orange cloth descends, at first a promise of hope & opportunity, but it soon turns against me, pulling me farther from my dreams. I struggle, spinning under its weight, until I finally let go. From above, a purple cloth floats down, showing resilience. I rise, chasing my dreams with courage, dancing not with fear but with joy, having a feeling of belonging.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Where Blessings Meet Belonging

Yasiri Samaraweera

North High School

Grade 11

Artist Statement:

My work reflects Belonging through the union of tradition, dance, and music. I was inspired by a song from Pandit Amaradeva, the father of Sri Lankan music, whose lyrics speak of blessings that embrace all people, no matter where they are. Through dance, I bring those words to life, weaving cultural steps with universal meaning. Each movement is both rooted in my heritage and open to the world, showing that belonging transcends place and background. This performance is my way of expressing how blessings, traditions, and shared rhythms connect us all under one sky, reminding us that we belong together.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Student

Rachel Correa

Howard Wood Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I’ve been dancing since I was three, and I choreographed this dance because it expresses how I just want to “cut to the feeling”, and my love for dancing that makes me feel like I belong. Dancing makes me feel free and filled with joy!

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong in the Dance World

Felicia Dragotto

Torrance High School

Grade 12

Artist Statement:

I pick You Say by Lauren Daigle because I relate to this song. Sometimes, as a dancer I feel like I am not good enough but, as I got older I realized that I am good enough and I do belong in the dance world. In the beginning of the song, there is a lyric that says “I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I’m not enough.” At the beginning of the dance, I am covering my ears so I can’t hear the voices that are saying that I’m not good enough.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong in the Team

Zachary Paik

Arlington Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement:

This story is about a minivan who wanted to belong in a race team.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I Belong to My Mom

Lisaanth Sankilikalai Senthilkumar

Victor Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement:

Every morning, rain or shine, I go for a walk with my mom. Each day we say “Hi” and “Hello” in a new outfit, a new mood, but with the same love. These little moments show how much I belong to my mom — she’s my sunshine every day.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorary Mention

Titulo del Trabajo, I am Happy to Find Where I Belong.

Keanu Taylor

Torrance Elementary School

Grade

Artist Statement:

Rock climbing is where I feel free.I can be myself and explore ways to climb to the top. I have to use my brain and my body to climb to my goal safely. I am happy to have found where dI finally feel like I belong. Its been 2 months since I discovered Class 5 rock climbing gym. I wish I can live there.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

We Belong Outdoors

Clara Forister

Riviera Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I belong in nature with my family. So many happy memories from summer road trips. Being in nature makes me feel happy, free, and like I truly belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

The Missing Piece in Belonging

Gabrielle Anspach

Arlington Elementary School

Grade 4

Artist Statement:

I think my video fits the theme because it shows people the even with negativity, they should focus on the positive and showing kids that they all belong. It also show that every one can belong every where with the right people and kindness around them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
2025 Contest Video_GA - Karen Brauneck Anspach.mp4

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

The Lion and the Mouse

Aditi Nandan

Victor Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I chose to show The Lion and the Mouse, because in the beginning the lion thought that the mouse was nobody, but in the end the mouse showed that it belongs by saving the lion.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Lion and The Mouse Aditi_N - Rohit Nandan.mp4

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I am Unique, and I Still Belong

Luke Alexander

Calle Mayor Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

My animation shows that even if you are unique, like the brightly colored backpack in comparison to all of the similar gray ones, you can still belong. I chose my music because it is about friendship, support, and belonging.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

My Life

Midori Yanone

Madrona Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

I belong to myself because of the connections I make. Every friendship, every moment, and every memory becomes a part of me. When I share laughter with friends or talk with my family, I learn more about who I am. My community helps me grow, and I bring my own light to it too. These connections make me feel happy, confident, and proud of who I am. They remind me that I belong, not just to others, but also to myself.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

You Belong

Isaac Park Jr

Bert Lynn Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Turn the Light Off

Merinelle Arriedo

Torrance High School

Grade 12

Artist Statement:

The spotlight effect negatively impacts the ability to feel a sense of belonging. In order to grow a connection with others, it is crucial to acknowledge the existence of the spotlight effect and when it occurs. The spotlight effect causes people to feel alone in their embarrassment, but we are all the same. We are human, meaning that we all seek belonging, safety, and community. In order to fully understand this, one must turn the light off.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Turn the Light Off - Merinelle Arriedo - Merinelle Arriedo

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

The Journey to Belong

Tania Ralhan

West High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

My film "The Journey to Belong" illustrates how we are all interconnected with each other through nature and the world we live in. We begin in peaceful forests and cities, transition into moments of discomfort and confusion, and end in a state of peace, where we truly feel we belong. Everything in the film, every scene from the trees to the glowing orb, demonstrates how we can contribute to the world and bring light to others. I discovered that belonging is not something to be searched for, but rather, belonging is something we create and share together.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Balloons of Belongs

Neel Patel

Walteria Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

My art shows me holding colorsful balloons that each have something special on them- family members, school, home, friends, and community. The balloons float high in the sky to show how they each lift me up and make me who I am. Every balloon is a piece of my heart that helps me belong. When I hold them all together, I feel happy, loved, and proud to be me.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I Belong on a Softball Team

Sierra Varee

Fern Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

I tried out and was put on a softball team. I didnt know anybody on my team. I didn't want to go at first. Week after week I made friend and felt like I belonged. Now I love going to softball practice and games.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

The New Sea Animal

Julian Carlson

Hickory Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement:

In our beautiful world I have seen that differences can be cool.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

I Belong to Earth and Family

Lisaanth Sankilikalai

Victor Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement:

I belong to Earth and my family.

The Earth gives me food, water, and fresh air.

My family gives me love and care every day.

I will protect the Earth by planting trees and keeping it clean.

We all live together on this beautiful planet.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong to My World

Kleeyan Lagman

Fern Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I feel like I belong anywhere in the world. I have a place in a planet country, city, house, and family. So no matter where you are and how different you are, you belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I Belong

Vaani Shukla

Victor Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I Belong to the place with golden grace where most are kind.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

My thoughts on "I belong"

Aditri Majumder

Seaside Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

When I hear the phrase “I Belong,” I picture how I fit in my society, my family, the real meaning of “I belong.” I wanted to make this idea come to life so I made this writing on what I truly think of the phrase “I belong.”

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

I Belong

Katelyn Ji

Arlington Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I once went on a walk with my grandma, and saw the harmony of

nature. Everything went in its place, and united all together. When I first

heard of the reflections theme this year , this very idea sprang into my

head. This “reflective essay” about my past troubles and hardships was

really meaningful to me, and I hope it inspires other people my age to

know that you are not a burden to this world.

“YOU BELONG!“

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
-I Belong- Katelyn Ji Reflections 2025-2026 - Google Docs - Jiah Park.pdf

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Finding Home Again

Bala Aaradhya Easwar

Jefferson Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

My poem shows my journey of moving to different places and learning to be proud of who I am. It connects to the “I Belong” theme because it shares how I went from feeling left out to finding friends who make me feel at home. Now, as a WEB Leader, I help 6th graders feel welcome at school so they know they belong too. My Indian culture is a big part of who I am, and I wanted to show that even if you feel different, you can still find a place where you belong.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Finding Home Again - Bala Aaradhya Easwar.pdf

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Debugging — Building Confidence and Belonging

Kavya Mehta

Madrona Middle School

Grade 6

Artist Statement:

I created this piece to show that coding is more than fixing mistakes — it’s about learning, trying again, and not giving up. Each “error” in my poem represents a real-life challenge, and each “fix” shows how we can overcome it. When all the bugs are fixed, a final message appears to remind us of our strength and growth. I want people to see that anyone can belong in coding, and that mistakes aren’t failures — they’re steps toward confidence and belonging.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

“Fit In” by Ivie Swin

Ivie Swin

Calle Mayor Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

When writing this poem, I looked for words that would match nicely, and “ fit in”. I tried to find a combination of letters that would resonate with the person reading, something relatable that’s understandable , and yet complex at the same time. Something that anyone and everyone could find enjoyable.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

김치 girl

Ella Hunter

West High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

I create from the in-between. Growing up biracial—Korean and white, daughter of an immigrant—I felt too foreign for America and too American for Korea. Many of my biracial friends share this same frustration of not belonging. My work explores this ache, inherited sacrifice, and the yearning to belong. Through imagery of food, language, and memory, I honor my mother’s immigration and confront the shame I once carried about my culture. Writing lets me reclaim what I tried to erase. I am not split between two identities, but built from both—and my art exists within that truth.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I, Indigo

Taegyounk Kim

Torrance High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

For many moments of my life, I have found it difficult to find a place to belong. Whether my foreign name or my odd interests. Blue overshadowing indigo reminded me a lot of myself, where similar people around me would overshadow me. Others wanted someone prettier and more popular. Just like how indigo gets grouped with blue, but if you tell someone to imagine "blue", they'll never think of indigo. In my poem, I wanted to show off indigo's uniqueness and how it can find belonging with those that know how to appreciate it.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
I, Indigo - Taegyoung Kim - Taegyoung Kim.docx

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

The Star

Tatyana McKay

South High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

What inspired this work was my personal experience with high school. Coming to South from a school outside of TUSD, it was certainly a challenge to feel welcomed and like I belonged in the school. Slowly but surely I did grow more comfortable, but it wasn't without having to come to unfortunate realizations about my environment or having to work on that confidence. I do hope that others can feel seen when they read it, and that it empowers them to embrace individuality.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tatyana Mckay _I Belong_ Poem (2) - Tatyana McKay.pdf

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong Everywhere

Jacob Shin

Walteria Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

I realize we belong to everyone everthing so i wrote poem and song

Details:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iFAGhUmqxIs92wgqRukKtEPeCKSwEMEC/view?usp=sharing

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Jesus Loves Me

Eileen Lee

Hickory Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

I belong to Jesus because He loves me no matter what. When I feel sad or scared, I pray to Him, and I feel peaceful. I try to be kind and help others like Jesus did. I know that Jesus is always with me, and that makes me feel safe. I’m happy to say that I belong to Jesus.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Exellence

Come out and Play

Anne Charlotte Kawanaka

Arlington Elementary School

Grade 4

Artist Statement:

This piece relates to the theme “I belong” because it sounds like “come out and play.” In second grade, when I just came to Arlington from Japan, I had no friends, while everyone already had a friend or a group. I would have loved to hear these words “come out and play with me!” and I want to make anyone like that feel like they have a friend. It is a very happy and uplifting song, and it can lift the mood for people sad, scared, or nervous so that they can feel like they belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I Belong

Cassius Volpone

Riviera Elementary School

Grade 3

Artist Statement:

This is a message and a song for people that sometimes feel left out. The words that you say to yourself and others matter.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cassius Volpone Riviera grade 3 "I belong" - Debra Chen.mp3

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

East or west wherever I belong is the best

Palak Pawar

Hickory Elementary School

Grade 3

Artist Statement:

Wonder where do I belong.

I belong to the beautiful place, to the present, when I breathe, when I speak, when I am right or wrong. Wherever I am I belong

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

"Authentic Belonging"

Naomi Linton-Kanas

Richardson Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

"Authentic Belonging" traces my journey from isolation to connection through three musical movements. The opening evokes loneliness—moments when I conformed for acceptance while navigating a rare immune disorder, changing schools, and our divisive world. I felt separate. The piece evolves through transition toward hope, drawing from when I showed up authentically: sharing fears and dreams, immersing in nature, creating music in band and composition. These experiences revealed true belonging. I've discovered that belonging emerges through empathy—holding space for ourselves and others exactly as we are. Belonging requires vulnerability and courage. Our differences don't diminish connection; they deepen it.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Belong

Drake Huynh

Casimir Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

I used an uncommon instrument known as an ukulele as part of a band style song. Most artists would clearly state that the ukulele is not meant to be in a band. I strongly disagree with this and furthermore, decided to put an ukelele in as the most important instrument through not completely consuming and sounding completely dominant in the song. In my song, "Belong" I put in the ukelule as a unique instrument that belongs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Drake Huynh - 2025 Reflections - Belong.mp3

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

Somewhere Where I Belong

Natalia Presti

Bert Lynn Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

My piano piece relates to the theme of “I Belong” because it describes the way I feel sometimes: full of energy and frustration, trying to express myself through music instead of with words, and finally calming down. The beginning is rhythmic like when my heart is racing, "agitato" (agitated). Gradually, the music becomes slower and softer, and "adagio" (at ease), and I have found a place where I belong. And that led me to think about the title of “Somewhere Where I Belong”. I wanted to express a feeling of searching and longing for a place where I am accepted.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Unyielding

Deshan Biswas

South High School

Grade 11

Artist Statement:

"Unyielding" is a song I created to celebrate individuality, passion, and the strength found in embracing our differences. The lyrics tell a story of self-discovery and acceptance, reminding us that belonging isn’t about blending in, it’s about standing out and finding peace in who we are. I composed a piano instrumental to accompany the words, using rising chords and emotional progressions to mirror the journey from doubt to confidence. The melody starts softly, symbolizing uncertainty, and builds into powerful harmonies that express freedom and connection. Through this piece, I aim to inspire others to find belonging within themselves.

Lyrics:

My path is mine now, my heart knows where I’m going
Even through storms and fire, I keep on growing
My flaws and fire, they’re all my true devotion
Even through doubt and pain, I keep on showing

The world keeps testing what’s inside of me
But every scar just makes me feel complete
My dream, my purpose, I rise, I keep on building
Living with all I am, my soul’s unyielding

This heart, this fire, this voice inside me
Ain’t just my own, it’s meant to guide me
Whatever pain I’ve faced became my healing
Every tear I’ve known gave me this meaning
My sky is reaching for what can’t be seen
My every flaw’s the proof I’ve always been
If I can’t find my place upon this ground
Living with all I am, my soul’s unyielding

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
"Unyielding" By Deshan Biswas - Deshan Biswas.mp3

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Echoes of Belonging

Andrew Yun

Torrance High School

Grade 11

Artist Statement:

Echoes of Belonging is a continuation of my composition from last year, Perfect is Imperfect. While the previous piece was written solely for trumpet, this year I added piano accompaniment to expand the musical depth and emotional range.

The trumpet still carries the main voice of the piece, but the piano enriches the harmony, creating a warmer and fuller sound. Through this combination, I wanted to explore the idea of belonging—finding my place and expressing a sense of connection through music.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

I Belong

Isabella Presti

West High School

Grade 9

Artist Statement:

The musical journey of this piece mirrors the emotional experience of seeking and finding a sense of belonging. It starts in a minor or unsettled key, which evokes a feeling of solitude or longing—the experience of searching for one's place. As the dynamics swell and the harmonies become richer, the music suggests the growing desire for connection and the emotional effort required to reach out. The piece finally shifts to a more stable and sometimes major-tinged sound, representing the arrival at a place of security and acceptance, symbolizing the moment that "I belong."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Isabella Reflections 2025 - Isabella Presti.mp3

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Holding Hands

Emily Varee

Fern Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

I feel like I belong when I hold my mom's hand.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Peek at you (Pikachu)

Owen Britfeld

Arlington Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement:

Friends come in all colors, Shapes and sizes we all belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

I belong to my parents and nature

Lisaanth Sankilikalai Senthilkumar

Victor Elementary School

Grade 1

Artist Statement:

My dad and mom are sitting in front of the ocean during sunset. The sky is full of orange, pink, and yellow colors. The soft wind moves around them, and the sound of waves is calm and sweet. They are talking and smiling at each other with love. It looks peaceful and warm. I feel happy when I see them together. I belong to my parents and to this beautiful nature. The sea, the sky, and my family make me feel safe and loved. This picture shows that love, family, and nature are my place. I belong here.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

High Five

Rylan Espiritu

Torrance Elementary School

Grade 4

Artist Statement:

This picture was taken in Reno when I competed for the US Taekwondo Regionals last May. I was very nervous when they called my name and when I saw my opponent but that nervousness went away as soon as I heard my team mates cheering, clapping and yelling my name. Team Salim trains almost everyday. We spent time training and having fun in the studio. We had a nerf battle too! We helped each other and encouraged each other to become better and stronger. We ran every Saturday morning and hung out outside the studio. They make me feel happy and accepted. Team Salim is my family and this is where I belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

The Joy Of Play

Clara Forister

Riviera Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I belong to many places, but one of my favorites is the playground—where I can spin, laugh, make new friends, and let my imagination run free.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

Screws on Ice

Olivia Lai

Walteria Elementary School

Grade 4

Artist Statement:

I know I belong in figure skating. In my photo, I focused on screws on my boots because they hold the blades in place, just like figure skating holds me in place in my life. The shiny blades and little gems remind me that I can shine like a gem when I skating. Skating isn’t just an activity I do, it’s where I belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

My Spot in the Song

Maxwell Forister

Richardson Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

I belong in music because it always makes me feel confident and included. When I play my trumpet in orchestra, I feel happy and proud to be part of a big group of supportive musicians. We help each other get better, and together we make music that sounds amazing. I love being part of the orchestra because the notes, the rhythm, and the teamwork remind me that I have a place here. With my trumpet in my hands, I know I truly belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Having a Seat Where I Belong

Evan Winyarat

Jefferson Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

This bench is located in the middle of nature and sends a direct invitation for me to join it. Whether it’s snowing or the sun is shining, the bench will always have a seat for me. As I sit here, I am transported into a beautiful painting where the lake, trees, and mountains smile at me. Nature doesn’t discriminate based on skin color or past mistakes; it accepts me freely and without judgment. Nature is a place where I know I will always belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

The shining of the human spirit

Kent Nguyen

Magruder Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

The photo shows how bright the spirit of a human could really shine. Even through hardships, the spirit still pushes through.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Sierra Summer

Jake Muneno

Torrance High School

Grade 12

Artist Statement:

Fishing, to me, is more than a pastime — it’s a form of art and the way I express myself. In this photo, my friend stands still in the water casting into calm water with dying light in the background. Each cast feels like a brushstroke, deliberate, technical, and full of intention. Fishing teaches me presence, patience, and appreciation for subtle beauty — the same qualities that define any true art form.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Through Our Differences, We Belong

Tania Ralhan

West High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

In a culture that calls for perfection—the perfect body, mind, and smile—we sometimes forget to find beauty in all that makes us different. This photo shows a sea of glass sculptures, each unique in color and shape, twisting and rising differently from the others. Each glass piece is like us; we each shine differently, but together we create a masterpiece of belonging. Through this image, I wanted to show that our differences aren't problems to be fixed, rather they are our bridges. They connect us. They are what make us human. They are what make us belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

Where I Stand

Parnik Pawar

South High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

The light pours through the school hallway like memory, soft, golden, and endless. Each shadow stretches across the floor, tracing the paths of people who have come and gone.

In this quiet glow I find pieces of myself in all the little things surrounding me. belonging isn’t just about people it’s about feeling at home in a moment. In this light, I find peace, familiarity, and the feeling that I belong here.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I love my dog and family

Hikari Hidaka

Howard Wood Elementary School

Grade TK

Artist Statement:

I love my dog because she plays with me. I love my dad because he plays a game with me, I love my mom because she gives me a hug, I love my old sister because she plays with me. That’s why I’m belong with my family!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get access to files anywhere through secure cloud storage and file backup for your photos, videos, files and more with Google Drive.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

This Is Where I Belong

Aaron Choi

Anza Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

My art is called "This Is Where I Belong." I drew a street sign that shows what makes me who I am and where I feel I belong. Each sign shows something that's special to me, like my family, friends, soccer, math, and my school. These are the places where I feel special and where I belong.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Visual Arts_1st Place Primary_Aaron Choi.jpg

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

My Happy Place

Leah Chan

Walteria Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

I drew these pictures because they are very special to me and they make me feel like I belong. I feel safe and happy when I go camping or spend time with my family. I also feel like I belong when I do art, gymnastics, and reading. I feel like these things bring me comfort and happy feelings. That’s why I chose to draw these.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

I Belong in the Forest

Kaelan Gurung

Edison Elementary School

Grade 2

Artist Statement:

These are my pictures of Idaho and the leaves and things I collected in the forest. I belong in the forest. There's lots of animals, plants and sun. It makes me feel happy. I like to play in the creek and find things like crawfish, snake eggs and a deer jaw bone.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Kaelan Gurung Reflections Art - Alani Price.jpg

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Characters in My Mind

Liam Son

Hickory Elementary School

Grade 4

Artist Statement:

This drawing shows who I am and what I love. All the characters in my hair—like Mario, Pikachu, Iron Man, and dinosaurs—are from games and shows that make me happy and inspire me. They remind me of my childhood and all the things that make me feel like me. I wanted to mix my real self with my imagination to show that I belong in both worlds—the real one and the fun, creative one inside my mind.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I’m Searching

Hugo Karg

Riviera Elementary School

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I don't know exactly where I belong. But I found a few comfort zones. When I am in the ocean snorkeling, exploring underwater, I don't really think in the present and lose myself in thoughts of the ocean. When I climb at the rock gym, I get comfortable because I get into a rhythm and look down on the world. I also like to daydream because you can do or be whatever you want in your dreams, like with Totoro in another world. I will keep searching for places I belong, who knows where I will find next.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

My World of Reading

Alice Kim

Victor Elementary School

Grade 3

Artist Statement:

Like Alice in the Wonderland, I love new adventures and new worlds I can explore through reading variety of books. I can be Annie who saves giant turtles, Jack who can surf well, I can be Plumeria Princess who loves to sing. I can become anyone while reading books and I belong to the world of reading.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

The Roots that Made me

Jace Song

Richardson Middle School

Grade 8

Artist Statement:

My artwork represents my life as a tree. The roots represent my family who has been there for me from the start. My family keeps me reminded of where I came from. The branches represent my growth as a person and the things I enjoy doing in my daily life. Each branch is a part of my journey of discovering who I am. As I reach a higher point of the tree/growing older, I will always carry the love and lessons from my roots. I belong because of the people who helped me grow to the person I became today and the person I will become further on.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

I Belong to Earth

Subanithaa Senthilkumar

Bert Lynn Middle School

Grade 6

Artist Statement:

She stands tall, a superhero girl with a confident stance, holding a glowing, intricate puzzle in her hands.Her eyes sparkle with determination, showing that she knows she has a place in this world, and that her actions matter. Around her, faint lines of light trace the connections she creates, symbolizing unity and hope. Her cape flows behind her like a gentle promise: wherever she belongs, she brings healing and balance. This is “I Belong”—a reminder that belonging means contributing, caring, and making the world whole.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

We Belong Together

Mason Kim

Madrona Middle School

Grade 6

Artist Statement:

I belong to many things, like playing basketball, biking, and spending time with my friends. We hang out and have fun together. Everyone belongs somewhere, even if they can’t always be part of the action. Belonging is more than doing—it's feeling connected.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Embrace

Matilda Barth

South High School Grade

Grade 11

Artist Statement:

“Embrace” depicts a hug as a universal symbol of acceptance and belonging. The vase is in the shape of a human torso. It is ambiguous whether the hands wrapped around the vases' body are connected to the "front" or "back". This allows the viewer to determine for themselves if belonging takes the form of a self hug through self acceptance, or a hug from someone else with their acceptance, or even both. The art piece functions as a vase -- a vessel that allows something living to be enjoyed outside its habitat, reminding us that belonging is a vessel for happiness.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

Together, Adrift

Diana Kwak

Torrance High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

This piece captures the feeling of being surrounded yet disconnected. The sinking girl is lost in her own thoughts, symbolizing how loneliness can exist even in shared spaces. The classroom above represents reality, while the empty desks reveal that everyone feels alone at times, even if it’s unseen. The girl reaching down embodies connection — reminding us that belonging isn’t just about “I,” but “we.” In the chaotic mind of a teenager, not fitting in can feel like the end of the world, yet this piece reflects the truth that we all live under the same sun. We belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Honorable Mention

You Can Sit With Us

Torri Jutabha

West High School

Grade 10

Artist Statement:

I painted the lunches of children, each featuring side dishes and a sandwich from a different culture—Vietnamese, Italian, Indian, and American—to show that even in our differences, there are shared elements. Each lunch includes a handwritten note in the child’s language meaning, “I love you, child,” reflecting a universal sense of care and connection. The lunchboxes themselves represent different social classes, but they’re all placed side by side to symbolize inclusion and equality. This piece explores the idea that no matter our background or status, we belong. To belong means to be seen, valued, and included.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

Diversity Split

Tobi Sam

Howard Wood Elementary

Grade 5

Artist Statement:

I drew a face cracked into 5 different pieces, each piece represents a race or culture. This artwork shows the different diversity's and how they all belong.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

A Garden of Belonging

Luna Fletcher

Hickory Elementary School

Grade 4

Artist Statement:

A garden of belonging, where every flower is unique but thrives together. Within each element, from the mushroom to the abstract shapes, is a piece of a larger, welcoming world. Painted in bright colors as symbols of my different emotions, I stand to belong in this colorful ecosystem.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Excellence

I Belong?

Elizabeth Le

West High School

Grade 12

Artist Statement:

When reading the theme, I read it with a question mark. Neglect was something that was often done to me and belonging very unfimilar. With this piece I not only coped and expressed myself about this theme personally, it oddly gave me a sense of belonging through sharing my experiences with belonging in this piece.

# data[].attributes.body
Award of Merit

We All Belong

Maxley Sato

Calle Mayor Middle School

Grade 7

Artist Statement:

It descibes that we are all equal and belong in this world that it doesn’t matter what you are, you are still a person and my work shows that.I took a picture of the satellite lanunch to show that the person who created it had autism like me can do anything he can think of and dream.The heart has 7 boxes for emotions and picture of people coming together.