Meet Zoya, Be Strong’s June 2024 Student of the Month from Sammamish, Washington!
Zoya has long since been driven by her unwavering commitment to fostering positive change through the transformative power of both art and compassion.
“I applied to be a Be Strong Student State Representative because I am deeply passionate about creating safe environments for young people to express themselves without fear of judgment,” said Zoya. “I aim to amplify the voices of youth, promote mental health and emotional well-being, and contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive community.”
She has been organizing impactful art workshops in which seniors, children with special needs, and domestic abuse survivors are free to explore self-expression and emotional healing through creative outlets. She’s particularly passionate about using art to open discussions about mental health, firmly believing that creative expression can help people feel better and find their voices.
Zoya deeply understands the human need for belonging and shared experience. As a Student Representative, she has also established an influential impact group of 56 peers who work together to spread Be Strong’s message of hope, healing, and resilience, in innovative ways. Through regular group discussions, the students learn to value themselves, process their emotions in a safe space, and support one another.
On leading her group, Zoya shared, “It feels good to know that I’m not alone and that there are other kids who understand what I’m going through. We create cool artwork together and learn about mental health, which helps us feel stronger and more confident. Plus, we support each other like a big family, and that’s the best feeling ever!”
Learning and practicing new social and emotional skills, then teaching them to her peers has been instrumental for Zoya and the group’s growth. “Being part of Be Strong has changed how I see challenges. It’s like, before, I used to think I had to deal with everything on my own, but now I know it’s okay to ask for help,” she explained. “It’s made me stronger and more confident when I have to face tough stuff. Plus, we’ve learned about the power of positivity!”
“My favorite part of being a Rep is doing things to make the world a better place, especially when it comes to mental health. Art can make people feel better and help them express things they can’t say with words. When we use art to talk about mental health, it’s like we’re shining a light on something that’s often kept in the dark.”
Zoya explained how she frequently leans to the Be Strong App for guidance. “I’ve used the app when I feel that I need inspiration and do not know where to start, and how to handle my feelings,” she said. “It helps me take care of myself and be there for my friends when they need me.”
Zoya’s commitment to uplifting and empowering her community is truly awe-inspiring, and the positive impact of her work continues to be felt far and wide.
To learn more about Be Strong’s free programs, email getstarted@bestrong.org. To nominate a student to lead change with Be Strong’s innovative student volunteer program, visit nominate.bestrong.global today.
