“We are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us. We are all meant to shine. We are born to manifest the glory of God within us. It is not in some of us, it is in all of us. As we let our light shine we unconsciously give others permission to do the same”. -Mandela

In Colombia's land of vibrant yellow, red and blue,

‘Midst birds and butterflies, my passion found bloom.

Yet beneath nature’s hues,

Lies a harsh truth,

Crime, violence and substance abuse.

A poverty crisis, education’s plea,

At fifteen, a shift to a land anew,

Quality education, a chance to renew.

In the red, white and blue,

A transformative scene,

Where learning’s power forever keen.

My Admiration extends to nations that share,

The gift of learning, a compassion so rare.

Photos from the time I asked my friends to donate money so I could buy school supplies, toys, and shoes for children in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Colombia—a project which will grow as I do.