Hello my name is Paola Ayala, I am a first generation chicana young woman. I was born and raised here in San Francisco and I am 16 years old.
Growing up I have always had a difficult time coming out of my shell and expressing my true self, I felt very lonely and lost for so much of my life. I struggled a lot with mental health at a very young age and it is something I deal with everyday as well as millions of youth. Even though I had the lows I also had my highs. I grew up taking the 14 to 22nd to the big ass sketchers store to buy some shoes. I grew up eating pizza from little caesars on geneva every time we had the money. I remember looking forward to winter for the posadas and going around the block with our sparklers. Naturally I was drawn to the arts and entertainment, I started dancing, painting and coding throughout the years. Eventually I found power in my voice and community, I learned how to plan and facilitate lessons and events. I furthered my knowledge about issues in our environment and people/ organizations that were helping. I discovered multiple interests through community and putting myself out there. I solidified my values, I met new people that made me think about the world differently. I enjoyed meeting and working with new people from different backgrounds because we all contributed a different point of view and came up with something better.
I am excited to continue growing and experiencing life. I not only found strength in my community but in my own voice. I want to appreciate my younger self, I got myself to the point I am now and I have learned to love myself despite going through my rock bottom. I'm grateful to be part of a team dedicated to empowering youth and the community
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