Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mom! She's beast in the best way! She's so smart and works harder than anyone I know! She loves with every cell in her body – she astounds me with her empathy. In moments of fear and uncertainty, she's able to find solutions and move through the fear. My mom taught me how to dream big and truly believe in my heart of hearts that I'm capable of making it happen.
What keeps you strong in times of trial? Breath, meditation, and taking things day-by-day – minute-by-minute.
When has your strength been personally challenged and how did you respond? COVID definitely caused a ton of stress and I had very little control. I was furloughed from my job and had to consider moving back home. Everyday I woke up with anxiety and applied to a bunch of jobs. I had to take each day as it came and show gratitude that the worst didn't happen. I had so much to be grateful for and I focussed heavily on that. I stepped outside my comfort zone and slowly gained confidence. Once I saw that I could overcome one hurdle, I moved on to the next.
Elise’s Intentional Act of Kindness
How did you use the $100? I donated the money to a dance company/project/ film called El Sueño. @el.sueno.dance El Sueño goes beyond creating dance for audience consumption. It focuses on "community engagement, healing, and empowerment of marginalized communities". Founded by Alicia Mullikin, this company highlights the important ancestral histories that are often silenced or forgotten, and analyzes their impact on the artists living now and for generations to come. Her work is extremely expansive and is very much needed.
What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? So fun! I love the idea from the moment I heard about it. I wish there was more of this in the world.