What keeps you strong in times of trial? My love for the little things in life keeps me strong in times of trial. I try to slow down and take in the small moments around me by listening, observing, and fully experiencing them, because they help put things into perspective. While life can be hard, these moments remind me why it's worth pushing through. They help me see the forest through the trees and appreciate all the good that still exists around me.
Who is a female role model in your life and why? My late grandmother, who I lovingly call "Bibi", remains a female role model in my life. My Bibi emigrated to Canada from India in the 1960's alone with her two young children (she had 3 more after!), to be reunited with her husband. She faced an arduous journey to Canada, where she had multiple stops along her way, each time landing in a country where her native language was not spoken, and eventually ran out of all of the food she had packed for her and her children. She was one of the most tenacious women though and figured out a way to communicate with a stranger, to help her navigate and safely made it back on her journey. When she arrived in Canada, she had to navigate life in a metropolis and a new culture and customs. She never let that scare her and she never lost her zest for life. I aspire to be even a little like her!
What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? I would tell the next generation to embrace their superpowers, whether that's their voice, their art, or anything else that makes them unique. Be proud of what makes you who you are and share that with the world. When you do, you give others permission to authentically be themselves, too.
Shaye’s Intentional Act of Kindness
How did you use the $100? I used the $100 to purchase critical hygiene products that are the most requested by Seattle area nonprofits people experiencing homelessness. I then created small kits in Ziploc bags and passed these out to community members in Seattle. When I lived in Los Angeles, I volunteered with an organization called The Giving Spirit and one of their flagship volunteer events was a Direct Outreach, where we created large kits in duffel bags filled with tarps, dry goods, first aid supplies and more. We then walked through densely populated areas handing out the bags to people in need. I made sincere connections with the individuals I met when I participated and could directly see where my dollars were going. I wanted to do this in my own (albeit smaller) way, for the community that I call home, Seattle, as you often reach more individuals this way as some of the folks I gave hygiene kits to may not qualify for other state-sponsored or nonprofit services.
What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? This was a heartwarming process, that reminded me that kindness and giving doesn't have only come in large, grand gestures. Small, thoughtful acts, can go a long way.