My name is Valentina NeJame and I’m currently 18 in my senior year. My life revolves around my family, friends, social activism, volunteer work and athletics! Each one of these categories has a special place in my heart and I wouldn’t be who I am without them. Welcome to a glimpse of my life!
Social Activism
In order to enact change in this world it has to start with me. If there’s an issue I believe is unjust, I have no other choice but to take action. Social activism plays a crucial role in my life as it allows me to advocate for causes I believe in and to create change.
Athletics
Athletics have played a vital role in my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been an athlete one way or another but there are two sports in particular which I have fallen in love with: Javelin and Hydrofoiling.
Volunteer Work
My life truly revolves around volunteering! It’s a big part of my being that has helped shape me into who I am. I believe that having a servant’s heart is key to living a life of purpose.
School
I attend Lake Highland Preparatory school in Central Florida. I’ve always been heavily involved in what my school has to offer: athletics, clubs, student government and more. I pride myself on always putting school work first and being the most attentive version of myself in class.
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Where do I even start on this one. This was the most amazing, transformative, physically and mentally challenging week of my life. For an entire week I, with other members of DARA, traveled to the middle of the mountains in Pennsylvania, fully disconnected from the outside world with no cellphone or other means of communication. We hiked close to 50 miles that week, including climbing uphill while carrying military backpacks, food and tents. I even had to carry the stove. We camped outside, had 6 am wake up calls and showered three times throughout the course of the week. This trip taught me more than I could have ever anticipated. It reinforced the belief that I can lead and encourage others to be their best, all while staying mentally and physically sharp myself.
Family
Let me introduce you to the one and only NeJame Family! My immediate family consists of : my mom, dad, sister and me. My grandpa also lives with us and it should be noted that I have a ginormous family consisting of cousins, aunts, uncles, great-aunts and more. I also have 2 pet french bulldogs and 2 pet pigs…. Yes you read that right- pigs. Anyways… welcome to my family.
Travel
Getting to immerse myself into different world cultures is the exact reason why I love to travel so much. I’ve been called a child of the world and this is because I learn, appreciate and see the beauty in every place I go. Traveling opens my eyes to the endless possibilities of what humans can achieve and the interconnectedness of our world.
Friends
I don’t know where I would be without my friends. These people are my support system and rock! I cherish every moment I have with them. In the beginning of high school I was bullied by some who I thought to be my friends. But, these close friends you see me here with are the ones I know I can count on. We’ve stuck through thick and thin with each other. I will forever be grateful for them as they have taught me the true definition of friendship!
Politics
I’ve always been someone who has had a big social conscience and part of this means being politically active. Politics truly do intrigue me and they allow me to ask and respond to thought-provoking questions which constantly allows me to learn more about our government and world events.
