# data[].attributes.body
The saying "coming of age" means to me, growing up and becoming more mature. It's about learning who you are, taking on more responsibilities, and understanding the world better.

# data[].attributes.headline
What are some significant events or moments in your life that have shaped who you are today?

# data[].attributes.subject
What are some significant events or moments in your life that have shaped who you are today?

# data[].attributes.body
One important event that made me who I am today is the day I joined my first-ever sport: dance. It was a big step for me because I was shy and nervous about performing in front of others. Over time, dance taught me how to be confident, work as part of a team, and express myself in new ways. It wasn't always easy, I had to push through tough practices and moments of self- doubt, but it helped me grow stronger both mentally and physically. Going dance showed me that stepping out of my comfort zone can open so many doors for me and opportunities.

# data[].attributes.headline
What challenges or obstacles have you faced, and how have they contributed to your growth?

# data[].attributes.subject
What challenges or obstacles have you faced, and how have they contributed to your growth?

# data[].attributes.body
Growing up with an absent and toxic father has been one of the hardest things I've dealt with. It hurt knowing he wasn't there for me, when he was, it was for selfish reasons. I use to feel angry and wonder why things had to be this way. But through it all, my mom and I became so much closer. She's been there for me through every tough moment, and we've gone through so much together. She's my biggest supporter, my safe space, and my role model. Even though it's been painful, I've learned what real love and strength looks like because of her. This experience has taught me to appreciate the people who are truly there for me and has made me stronger than I ever thought I could be.

# data[].attributes.headline
Are there any cultural, family, or societal influences that have impacted your coming-of-age story?

# data[].attributes.subject
Are there any cultural, family, or societal influences that have impacted your coming-of-age story?

# data[].attributes.body
Being both Nicaragüense & Hondureña has shaped who I am in so many emotional ways. From Nicaragua, I've learned so much about my culture by traveling with my abuelo and seeing his home town; Corn Island. My family and I would fly out to Nicaragua every year of the first week of May to celebrate, Palo de Mayo. That festival is important to me because you can see everyone so happy together, celebrating their beautiful culture, the music, the dances, the amazing food, and so much more. From Honduras, I've learned the amazing culture since I was just 2 years old. My abuela would put on "Punta," and we would dance all around the house, laughing and singing. It's really important to me because it's a part of the bond I share with my abuela, and it's something that makes me connected to my family. I also love traveling to Honduras, where the energy and joy of celebrations like Feria Juniana always fill me with excitement. Balancing both cultures hasn't always been easy, especially when you feel more connected to one than the other, but it's made me proud of where I come from. It's taught me to embrace my roots and work hard to honor my family and my ancestors in everything I do.

# data[].attributes.headline
Looking forward, what milestones do you hope to achieve as you continue your journey of growing up?

# data[].attributes.subject
Looking forward, what milestones do you hope to achieve as you continue your journey of growing up?

# data[].attributes.body
Looking ahead, I hope to achieve a few milestones. First, I want to do well in school and keep pushing myself to reach my goals. I also want to explore my passion with cheer and figure out what I truly want to do in the future. Traveling more, especially to Nicaragua and Honduras, is something I’m excited about to connect deeper with my roots. I also want to keep building strong relationships with my family, especially my abuelos. Lastly, I hope to become more independent and confident in myself as I grow.