Soul 66: Kim

How does family shape your perception of strength? My definition of strength changed drastically when I had my two daughters. While I grew up thinking strength was complete independence and suppressed feelings, I quickly realized that is not the message I want my daughters believing. I want them to know it is ok to endure emotional pain and grow from it. I want them to be brave and confident to do things on their own and know that they can ask for help when needed. Most of all, I want them to believe that they can grow through challenges and to continue moving forward despite risks.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mom has always been my role model for strength and determination. She had a very challenging upbringing, with an abusive father, frequent moving and food insecurity. She decided at 10 years old to get a paper route and save money to make a better life for herself. With no support, she went to college, married my dad and went on to create a beautiful, stable home life for my brother and me. I have never heard her complain, she simply works hard and perseveres through whatever happens in life.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? Being strong isn't about being tough and independent, it's resilience. Being vulnerable isn't about being weak, it's about being authentic. To me, strength is being able to admit when you are going through a challenging situation and resilience to persevere even in the hard. Ultimately, the difficult experiences make you stronger.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Lead with empathy. I am constantly encouraging my 4-year-old daughter to find ways to support her younger sister, befriend someone who seems lonely, and be patient with those having a hard time. Empathy and compassion can bring people together and make the world a better place.

Kim’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I gave the $100 a young college student who is expecting a child to use to purchase a car seat for her baby boy. I am so impressed with the bravery and strength of this student to continue her pregnancy. She had limited support from her family and was working two jobs on top of school to provide for her little one when he arrives. Giving her money to purchase a car seat felt like a very practical way to support her in her time of need.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? The Intentional Act of Kindness opened my eyes to ways that I could meet a need for someone I knew. Without this process, it would not have crossed my mind that I could make a difference in this girl's life by this simple act. It has opened my eyes and heart to other ways to love my neighbors. You actually inspired me to do another act of random kindness for a coworker in Serbia. She is running a marathon in honor of her late dad this weekend and I sent her flowers yesterday. Turns out her dad owned a flower shop and it was more meaningful than I could have ever imagined.

Soul 65: Tukey

What does "being strong" mean to you? When reading this question, I started to wonder, am I a strong woman? Reflecting on the "strong moments" in my life, I was surprised to realize there are so many. "Being strong" can mean being able to stay curious and try new things; having the determination to persevere and finish a task, as well as the courage to give up and move on; remaining positive and resilient during difficult times; having the courage to make a tough decision; being able to think beyond myself, to love, and to bring joy to others... Strength comes in many forms.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? This might sound a bit weird: when things get hard, I start to write jokes. I jot down the big things, small things, sweet things, and bitter things in my life, transforming them into funny stories. Then I share them with my friends as if I am a standup comedian. It makes me feel good when thinking about how thick my joke book will be after this trial. Another thing that keeps me strong is my friends. Being a super extrovert, talking things through with someone that I trust keeps me strong in difficult times.

How have your trials made you stronger? Every trial gives me a new book to write, plus my joke book! More specifically, trials push me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to think about new problems, reach for new contacts and opportunities, and gain new perspectives. New project ideas come up during trials. Trials also practice my tolerance of uncertainty and ability to navigate through different situations. Each trial not only tests my strength but also enriches my life in unexpected ways.

How do you encourage other women to be strong? I would usually have 1-on-1 bubble tea dates, listen to their stories, understand and empathize with what they are going through, and offer moral support/help wherever I can. I believe building friendships could be empowering and could help other women navigate through various difficult scenarios.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Weight lifting :] Haha, no, the serious answer, is to take a moment to reflect on what we appreciate and are grateful for in life. It’s so easy to focus on what we don’t have and become bitter, overlooking the beauty that surrounds us. Whether it’s the love of family and friends, the smile of a stranger, an unexpected encounter with a raccoon… Acknowledging the privileges and abundance we already have can help us maintain perspective and strength. This gratitude helps us to keep moving forward with a positive and resilient mindset.

Tukey’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I invited 5 international students from various countries on a bubble tea date and treated each of them to $20 bubble tea and/or dessert. I wish this could be the start of our friendship and they will feel more comfortable to hang out and ask for support if they need any.

As an international student, I am aware of how helpful it can be to have friends I can turn to in a new country. I have received help and support in various forms since I came here five years ago, and I wish to pass on the love to others!

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I live in a communal house named "International Friendship House," and we host dinners for international students every Thursday. So I will chat and schedule a bubble tea date with one new international student once every two weeks, have bubble tea/dessert, and continue to build deeper friendships.

Soul 64: Monica

How does family shape your perception of strength? My family instilled in me the notion that I could do anything I set my mind to. I was encouraged to take risks, try-out for sports teams, audition for theater roles, and chase my dreams. The idea that failure was a part of growth felt comforting, knowing I had my family standing behind me. When I think of strength, I think a lot about my dad’s journey to the US. While born in the states, he was raised in Bogota, Colombia. After spending 3 years at a university in Colombia, he moved to California, learned English, and went on to graduate as an engineer from Cal Poly. I will forever be impressed by his strength, and think about this when going through my own struggles. We are no match for the battles we face if supported and determined to succeed.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? I remind myself of the following: will this matter a day, week, or month from now? It is easy to spiral when something goes wrong. When I initially read the question, my mind jumped back to June of 2021. I was taking flying lessons, and upon take-off, within seconds of each other, the airplane door slightly popped open and it started to rain. In the moment, I was utterly terrified. It was hard enough to handle the flight procedures, but my only option was to keep flying. The instructor helped me shut the door, I landed the plane, and we both laughed. The trial may have mattered that day, but I now look back on that moment knowing perspective helped me through it.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mother is a paramount example of strength, someone who I look up to daily and aspire to be like. She is kind, intelligent, supportive, and loving. She balanced being a full-time mom and working, seldom missing a soccer game, dance performance, or school event. She built strong communities around her and always made time for family. She’s played an instrumental role in my growth as a person.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Do not be afraid to advocate for yourself and learn how to negotiate for what you deserve. Graduate school has strengthened my negotiation and advocacy skills, especially regarding job offers. I recall getting my first internship offer my sophomore year of college. It was a wonderful company and I knew I wanted it. I was so ecstatic, I accepted the role over the phone. Looking back on this moment, I think about what would have happened if I negotiated.
I’ve learned over time how to pair my tendency to be thankful with a growing strength of asking for what I want. I also learned to not accept an offer on the phone, giving yourself time to think about your options. Knowing your worth and accepting nothing less transcends beyond the job market, but plays a large role in your professional trajectory.

What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Set priorities and protect your time. I had a wonderful conversation with a colleague recently where we discussed our own priorities. They mentioned that when you establish your priorities and protect your time, you develop habits that support your long term goals.

Last fall, I was navigating the shift from full-time work to graduate school. Tasks that were once easier to complete now competed with homework, group projects, and a social life. The best thing I did for myself was set boundaries to ensure that I had what I needed. For me, this looked like going on a run or cooking a nice meal when I needed a break from schoolwork.

Think of the things that bring you joy or help fill your cup. I often get stuck in the circle of overthinking when my plate is full. This mental re-set helps me to find balance in my life, re-focusing on what is important and prioritizing accordingly.

Monica’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated the $100 to an organization close to my heart, Friday Night Out (FNO). FNO was developed to build community for adults with special needs. They host monthly events in Northern California, creating a safe space for special needs adults to build friendships, have dinner, and enjoy an evening in community.

I thought about how I wanted to donate the funds for some time, and landed on an organization that supported my brother. Growing up with a special needs brother, I've always been drawn to supporting his community. The founder started the organization to grow a community for her own daughter and special needs adults in the area. I have seen the organization grow from a concept to an incredible community. As adults, it can be hard to make friends. Adding the additional hurdle of having an intellectual disability makes it more difficult. Organizations like FNO are dedicated to creating opportunities for friendship and community.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I always feel lifted when giving. I find that it motivates me to volunteer my time or support a mission financially. I'm appreciative to the 100 Souls Strong project for giving me opportunity to support an important non-profit's mission.

Soul 63: Ramya

What does "being strong" mean to you? For me, being strong isn't just about how tough you can be on your own. It's not confined to the battles we fight alone or the obstacles we overcome in solitude. It's about how we stand by those we care about, how we extend a hand in their moments of need, and how we choose to be a pillar for someone else even when we're grappling with our own storms.

How does family shape your perception of strength? My family is the foundation of my strength, a constant presence that teaches me the true essence of unconditional love. Through both their actions and words, my parents and sister have instilled in me the essence of unconditional love, showing me that the deepest forms of strength stem from the bonds we nurture. Take, for instance, my passion for marathon running and mountaineering, which initially bewildered my family. The thought of me embarking on adventures across unfamiliar terrains and weather, often accompanied by strangers, filled them with concern. My mother, in particular, coming from a modest village background with limited formal education, found it challenging to connect with my enthusiasm for these pursuits. The idea of dedicating countless hours to train for runs across the country or to trek into the mountains was foreign to them.

Despite their apprehensions, their support never wavered. They saw the joy and fulfillment these adventures brought me and chose to embrace my passions. Their backing came not from an understanding of my interests but from an unconditional love that prioritized my happiness, ready to adjust their comforts and expectations. My parents went to great lengths to support my dietary needs to ensure I was well-fueled to run stronger and recover swiftly. My dad, in particular, played a pivotal role in my training sessions, waking up early to accompany me as I ran laps in the dim morning light. When it was too dark, he would light my path with the car headlights to ensure my safety. Moreover, when I decided to pursue an MBA at 29, a time when many of my peers were settling down, my family's support became a shield against the doubts cast by others. Despite societal pressures suggesting their support was misplaced, they stood firmly by my side, ensuring I had a distraction-free environment to focus on my preparations. These and many other moments with my family have profoundly shaped my perception of strength. They have taught me that true strength is not solely about personal grit and perseverance but equally about the relentless support and love from those dearest to us. Their faith in me, irrespective of the choices I made, has been an inexhaustible wellspring of strength, molding me into the individual I am today.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? My father always taught me a simple yet profound lesson “Do your best, and let the rest be. Success isn't always about reaching the goal.” He instilled in me the understanding that there will always be factors beyond my control. When challenges arise, I lean on this wisdom, asking myself: Have I truly exerted every effort? Have I looked beyond my personal ambitions to see the greater picture, to ensure that my efforts are not just for self-fulfillment but for a larger good? If the answer is yes, I find peace in the knowledge that I have committed my best to the task at hand, regardless of the final result.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mom is my role model. Originating from a rural village, her educational journey was cut short due to traditional beliefs that prioritized marriage for women over personal growth. She faced the loss of her father at the tender age of two, and upon marrying at a young age and moving to the city, she encountered the challenge of not knowing any language but her mother tongue—a barrier she still faces today. Despite these hurdles, she carved a path for herself with remarkable resilience. Her talents are exceptional, particularly her passion for designing. She adores creating dresses for me and my sister, dedicating countless hours to stitching, designing, and even hand-painting sarees and dresses with intricate designs. More than her artistic abilities, she’s the linchpin of our family’s social connections, ensuring strong ties with the parents of our friends, relatives and welcoming every guest into our home with unmatched warmth and hospitality. From her, I've learned the true essence of being genuinely excited, warm, and loving toward others without expecting anything in return.

Her determination taught me that language is no barrier to forming deep, meaningful connections. Deprived of a college education herself, she was adamant that my sister and I receive everything she missed out on, constantly encouraging us to pursue education and careers, and to nurture warm relationships. She rejoices in my achievements, often saying, "When you win, I win too." Her steadfast presence beside me, ready to face any criticism, as long as I'm chasing my passions, has been a guiding light. Through her actions, she's taught me the profound lesson of what it means to invest your heart and soul into pursuits you cherish, and equally, the importance of supporting others in their passionate endeavors, despite societal critique. To this very day, there isn't a topic I hesitate to bring up with her. Her genuine interest and eagerness to learn about areas unfamiliar to her not only reflect her supportive nature but also her immense capacity for understanding and empathy. This unwavering support and curiosity make her not just my mother but my lifelong confidante and an endless source of inspiration.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? To me, genuine strength emerges from weathering life's storms, which, in turn, equips us to empathize with and uplift those facing similar trials. Encountering someone ensnared in struggles mirroring my own past, I've learned that people won't truly open up or connect without being given the space to do so. How can I ensure they feel they can depend on me? By fostering a safe environment where individuals feel understood for their values and concerns. This often means being vulnerable myself, sharing my own story, even at the risk of exposing my emotions and laying bare my past challenges. Embracing openness and emotional honesty, allowing one's authentic story to unfold, is never a sign of weakness. Rather, I see it as a testament to incredible strength, the kind that only comes from allowing oneself to be vulnerable.

Ramya’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated the $100 to my housekeeper, a resilient mother of three, who despite not having received a formal education herself, tirelessly works across multiple households each day to fund her children's schooling. During my recent visit to India, I learned that daughter was being mistreated by a teacher at her current, tuition-free school. Although, she reported this to the authorities, the issue was minimally addressed with only a warning issued. Determined to find a safer learning environment for her daughter, she decided, with assistance from my mother, to move her to a new school that requires tuition. I chose to contribute to the tuition for her daughter’s new school, hoping to alleviate some of their financial stress and ensure that her daughter could continue to learn in a nurturing environment.

I firmly believe that no child or parent should ever feel unsafe or unsupported in an educational setting. Growing up, my family instilled in me the belief that while money may come and go, education remains a lasting asset that no one can take away. This conviction drove me to support her daughter's transition to a secure, respectful, and conducive learning environment.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? : This act of kindness was profoundly impactful for me. It reinforced my commitment to thoughtful giving—choosing causes I believe in and helping those in dire need. It served as a reminder that amidst our busy lives, where personal and family needs often dominate, taking a moment to consider the needs of others can make a significant difference.

Soul 62: Debbie

What does"being strong" mean to you? To me, "being strong" is being tough when life gets tough and it comes in three ways:

1. It's about facing problems with bravery and never giving up, even when things seem really hard. Being strong doesn't mean you can't cry or feel tired; it's okay to have those feelings. To me, its important to understand that crying and feeling weary are not signs of weakness but rather reminders of our shared humanity. And so, amidst tears and tiredness, true strength is about bouncing back after tough times, even when you feel like giving up.

2. It's about believing in yourself and finding the courage to keep going, no matter what. It means having the courage to face our fears, doubts, and tough times. When we're feeling lost or unsure, strength is like a small light of hope that helps us keep moving forward, even in the darkest times. And when we push on, we only become stronger.

3. Strength isn't just about avoiding tough situations or simply enduring them. It's about meeting challenges head-on, facing them with courage, and finding ways to turn them into opportunities for growth. Instead of just enduring hardships, true strength involves actively engaging with them, learning from them, and using them as stepping stones toward a brighter future. It's about seeing obstacles as chances to learn, adapt, and become stronger versions of ourselves. By confronting struggles directly and embracing the lessons they offer, we not only overcome them but also emerge from them stronger and more resilient than before.

How does family shape your perception of strength? My mum has been a constant source of inspiration and strength in my life. Having lived with her most of my life, she's really shaped my perception of strength. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has always remained resilient and determined. I've admired her ability to see beyond immediate problems and navigate through tough situations with grace. One incident that stands out is when our home was invaded by armed robbers. While my dad and I were in shock, she remained calm and spoke words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of resilience and focusing on the future rather than dwelling on the past. Her unwavering positivity and ability to persevere through adversity have not only influenced my perception of strength, but also shaped my whole family's perception of strength. I've learned from her example that strength isn't just about enduring hardships but also about facing them head-on with courage and optimism. She has taught me that true strength lies in being able to rise above challenges and remain hopeful even in the face of adversity. Because of her, as a family, we've come to a point where we keep pushing on despite the negativities in our surroundings.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? In times of trial, my faith serves as my anchor, providing the strength I need to persevere. Believing in a higher power beyond my control, I turn to prayer for inner strength and guidance. When I first moved to the United States in 2017, facing cultural shock and loneliness, it was my faith that sustained me. Despite moments of doubt and wanting to return home, I held onto my belief that God would see me through. Through prayer and reliance on Him, I emerged from that challenging period even stronger. Today, as I navigate new challenges such as motherhood, entrepreneurship, and pursuing an MBA, my faith continues to sustain me. I attribute my resilience and ability to overcome obstacles to the grace of God, who has been my constant source of strength and support.

How have your trials made you stronger? I would say I have faced two major trials in my life that have enriched my character, fostering personal development and determination while emphasizing the importance of seeking support. They have equipped me with the strength and confidence needed to face future challenges with grace and inner resilience.

Firstly, my move to the US presented diverse challenges. Navigating a different culture and overcoming various hurdles have taught me the importance of speaking up for myself. This assertiveness has become a fundamental aspect of my character enabling me to succeed not only in US but amongst the international community.

Secondly, starting an MBA came with challenges ranging from new motherhood to facing immigration complications that cost me job opportunities. My experience here really helped me learn the importance of reaching out to others for support. To me, it highlighted the strength found in vulnerability and the power of community. I've really come to understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather a demonstration of resilience and self-awareness.

Both experiences have been incredibly transformative, and today, I am able to say I am much stronger and a better person than I was many years ago.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? I have three advice I would like to share:

1. Embrace your differences: Reflecting on my experiences navigating different cultures and overcoming challenges, I encourage the next generation of strong women to embrace their differences. Our unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences are sources of strength and resilience. However, be open minded and willing to learn new things. There is nothing wrong unlearning certain things or values you already hold on to and learning new things that shapes you in a better way.

2. Seek support: Drawing from my journey of seeking help during challenging times, I urge young women to prioritize building supportive networks and seeking assistance when needed. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and empower you, and don't hesitate to lean on them for support. Remember, strength is found in vulnerability and the bonds we share with others. We sometimes fall in the myth of we can do it alone, but i believe we can move faster if we have a community of supporters cheering us on.

3. Build your faith: Reflecting on the belief in a higher power beyond our physical abilities, I encourage the next generation to build their faith. Whether through spirituality, religion, or personal beliefs, cultivating faith provides a source of hope, guidance, and strength during difficult times. Trust in the presence of a supernatural power that supports and sustains us, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. I personally believe in the grace of God and its played a major role especially in areas where other humans have failed.

Debbie’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I used the $100 to bless two people who have been a great source of inspiration and have impacted my life positively - Grace and Pearl. I split the $100 equally and used it to buy gifts that they needed to honor them on their birthdays. I decided on this because I felt both had to be honored for the hard work they do and I wanted to purchase something that they needed. Grace has an NGO called Lift Ghana that focuses on uplifting one another to thrive in life, and be good agents of socialization at home and change agents in all spheres of life. Since she has given her life to many others, I believed that blessing her in this way was worth it.

Pearl on the other hand has always placed herself in a position to help others. Months before I gave birth, she came to stay with me and has since been there supporting me in managing my baby while I also school.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I believe the process made me very thoughtful in thinking about who I wanted to be a blessing to. The word "intentional" pushed me into making sure that my kindness was not in vain. I am actually happy about his and I believe moving forward in my life I will really be intentional about my kind acts. I'm really grateful for such an opportunity.

Soul 61: Ravali

What does "being strong" mean to you? To me, being strong means being open to adversity and ready to deal with challenges, having the courage to face any situation, acknowledging vulnerabilities, and embracing that they are part of life. Being strong means inspiring others to be strong through your actions, giving hope to the people around you that anyone can overcome challenging situations and that it's not the end of one's life.

What keeps you strong in times of trial? During challenging times, initially, I feel discouraged. I tend to allow myself to be affected by the difficulties because I don't want to confront them immediately, though this feeling doesn't last long. Once I regain my energy, I remind myself to be strong. I motivate myself to confront the situation head-on and rely on friends and family for support to help distract me from it. I just accept the situation, and then think about ways to come out of it. It's not easy, but I strongly believe we all can overcome adversity.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My Mom! I know it may sound clichéd, but I consider myself lucky to have a mother like her. Despite facing challenges during my childhood, she remained remarkably resilient. She shielded my brother and me from the impact of those tough times, ensuring our education was unaffected. Even though she hasn't been part of the workforce, she consistently encouraged us to dream big, providing all the resources we needed to thrive. Her selflessness and strength make her the most admirable woman I know. She stood by us, unwavering, in every situation.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? I was fortunate to have grown up in a supportive family, especially with my mother encouraging me to pursue higher education and enter the workforce. Unfortunately, not every girl or woman experiences this support. My advice to them: don't let others determine your worth or dictate your path. Follow what brings you happiness—whether it's painting, writing, or directing. Remember, you are already strong! Take the first step!

Once you are ready, be supportive. Give back by supporting women who may feel trapped. Encourage them to break free from their constraints and inspire them to do the same.

Ravali’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated a bicycle to a girl who required transportation for school but lacked the means, which was hindering her education. My mom is part of an international women's group called the Inner Wheel Club. They do service work and raise funds for various causes like schools, orphanages, old age homes, etc. I asked her if there was anyone who needed money for education, and she mentioned this cause. I wanted to donate to a girl especially to enhance her chances of becoming a strong independent woman.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I really appreciated going through this process. It helped me reflect on my past and reminded me of the importance of supporting women, especially considering the challenges many face in pursuing their aspirations. Thank you, Kristen, for giving me the opportunity to do this.