Growing up, in school, I was always the timid girl that tried so hard to blend in with a wall, hoping not to get bullied by anyone. I was the girl that sat inside a bathroom stall to eat my lunch all alone. I was bullied all through my school years and because of that, changed my physical appearance so I wouldn’t be bullied anymore. I hurt myself by constantly ripping parts of who I was and throwing them away. I shackled my mind into believing I was not good enough for this world. I was trapped in a bubble of self-doubt that always made me question my identity. It wasn’t until I had an authentic relationship with Christ, that I realized, my identity is in CHRIST alone!

In 2019, The National Center of Educational Statistics stated that one out of every five (20.2%) students report being bullied. The CDC reported, “Students who experience bullying are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, lower academic achievement, and dropping out of school.” As a result of bullying, “youth who often self-blame and conclude that they deserved to be bullied, are more likely to face negative outcomes, such as depression, prolonged victimization, and maladjustment.” Many people overlook bullying as a type of abuse, but it is! Especially during middle school. Bullying increases in middle school because kids are transitioning from a child to a young adolescent. They have a strong desire to feel accepted by those around them and as a result of that, they experience peer pressure.

I was one out of the five kids that have been bullied. I now work with the middle school program at the KIX West Homestead Site, and our vision is to offer hope, help and wholeness to our kids. I decided to help make a difference in the life of students who may be experiencing the same challenges I did when I was in middle school.

At Miami Youth for Christ, programs all over Miami are raising funds to help end Youth Violence which includes bullying! We want YOU to be a part of this great opportunity.

This year my baby sister Rakel will be going Over the Edge! We know that with God ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! We trust in Him and as his humble servants, take the stand to help stop youth violence, spread the Gospel, and reach youth for Christ!

Will you join me and help make a difference in the life of a young person today? Please donate to my team TODAY!