My name is Sharonda.
I am 17 years old, and I have been a participant in this program for 6 years. Over the years, my leadership opportunities grew. I am now seen as a leader so I have to make sure that I’m setting a good example for the kids looking up to me at all times. Throughout the school year, I have participated in multiple activities that I have enjoyed. We’ve been to the movies, ice skating, college tours, picnics at the park, and had girls days. I enjoyed those activities because it gave me a chance to not only shine as a leader but get to know some of the younger kids on a more personal level. To me, Kinship is like a family and I feel like doing community based activities brings us closer at the end of the day. I am a senior in high school and I not only struggle with being a leader, but I struggle with balancing everything and staying positive throughout it all. In the beginning of my senior year, I was really struggling in the math class to the point where I tried to drop it. I started advocating for myself and being more vocal in the areas where I needed help and KYP was able to help me out. I went from having the lowest grade in class to an A. Getting to that point wasn’t very easy. I was constantly giving up on myself, not paying attention in class, and feeling like I didn’t understand what was going on. I was setting a bad example for those that look up to me. I don’t want to see the younger kids reach a hard obstacle and give up. I want them to keep trying no matter how hard something may be. I want to be that positive role model. I am proud to say that I am ending my year off on a positive note. I’ve received two scholarships and have gotten accepted to two colleges. I plan on attending California State University, East Bay in the fall and studying social work.