WE Day Minnesota 2017

Walking into the stadium, early on a Wednesday morning, I felt a sense of excitement and youthfulness. I did not have a single idea of what was going to occur on this cold winter day. However, when I took my seat, among thousands of youth, I started to wonder what this event was all about. I didn’t expect there to be more kids than adults at this event, however, the atmosphere was very welcoming to me.

As a teenager, I felt alive among thousands of other youth. What I learned about these students that I was sitting next to, though, is that they did not pay for their spots. Each and every student earned their ticket to this event. They each made a big impact on their communities and the world. These students are the ones who are changing the world and being the generation that shouts “GEN WE.” They are the students who are being the ones to initiate big movements despite their age.

My biggest take away is asking myself, “What am I doing to make a big impact on the world?” Am I merely going to conform to the world or am I going to be among the world-changers in this generation? Am I going to stand up for the people who are being discriminated against? Am I going to enter into the situations that are going to be difficult, but necessary? Am I going to love the people who don’t receive love? Am I going to provide for those who are needy? Life can be as exciting and impactful as we chose to make it. We can be the ones who are willing to disregard the negative opinions of others and instead go full-speed ahead on the impact we make in this big world.

One story I was extremely impacted by was Bianca Dawkins’ story. Bianca created a movement called Project Hope. With this movement, she makes homemade dolls for youth dealing with trauma. She got this idea because she went through trauma as a teen. Bianca shared that she experienced homelessness and abuse and she was in turmoil and trauma as a teen. Because of what she experienced, she decided to impact those who are currently experiencing what she had to go through. Her goal is to bring hope and healing to youth all over the United States with a homemade doll and a whole bunch of love. Additionally, two teens chose to create a movement called “Pab’s Packs”. Abbie and Pia decided to give back to youth who have chronic illnesses and have to spend lots of time in hospitals. Abbie and Pia both spent a lot of time in the hospital with nothing to do. With their movement called “Pab’s Packs”, they have created backpacks with activities for youth to do while in the hospital. I strongly believe that people like these truly make a big impact.

Some people may think that they are too busy and don’t have time to give back. However, we all have time and energy. The way we choose to spend this time and energy, though, is what makes all the difference. From this event, I have felt more empowered to make a difference in this world and to be one of the many who change the viewpoint of our generation. I am so glad that there are events like WE Day because I felt that these students left feeling filled up and encouraged to go out and do EVEN MORE.