“What is your favorite food from your home country?” This question kicked off a recent virtual KIND event in which a group of KIND clients, staff, and interns came together on Zoom for an evening of storytelling, writing, and sharing.
With participants from countries including Guatemala, Peru, Ecuador, and El Salvador, the answers made everyone hungry: “cheese empanadas,” said one client. “Plantains and pupusas,” said another. “Tacos al pastor” (pork tacos). “Choripan” (sausage sandwich) “Lomo saltado” (peruvian beef stirfry). “Fried yucca.”
After the appetizing icebreaker, KIND’s Director, Storytelling, Alejandra Paz spoke to the clients about the power and importance of storytelling and the process of sharing a story with KIND. She explained that how stories can help educate the public about unaccompanied children, influence decision makers, and empower the storyteller: “Storytelling is a way to take control of your own story and tell it in your own way, as the hero or heroine of your own life.”
Cruz Espitia, staff attorney at KIND’s Atlanta office, provided an example of how to share a personal story. Using photographs from his childhood and of his family, Cruz drew clients in by describing his journey from childhood to becoming a lawyer, about how his parents migrated to the United States from a small village in Mexico, and what it was like to grow up in two cultures. Cruz shared advice with the clients about how to keep hold of their dreams and believe in themselves while navigating their future.
Alejandra, a KIND client and KIND client ambassador reflected on how owning and sharing her story has empowered her and emboldened her. She encouraged clients to believe in themselves and know their power through their stories and experiences.
To wrap up the evening, Jean Erikson, an intern with KIND’s Atlanta office, led clients in a writing activity where they reflected on their sources of strength and inspiration in their lives, answering questions such as “When do you feel happy?” “What makes you feel proud of yourself?” “What is your north star?” The clients wrote their answers and shared with the group.
In response to what makes them happy, the clients responded:
- “I feel very happy when I listen to music, it relaxes me and I feel without worries.”
- “Photography!”
- “My parents.”
- “My sister, who is always with me through the ups and downs.”
- “My best friend.”
- “Spending time with family and friends. Being in nature with my partner.”
To the question “What makes you proud?”:
- “My north star is happiness and living a happy life is what makes me feel proud.”
- “Being able to help my community makes me proud.”
Clients’ answers made clear that despite their challenging circumstances, they are strong, resilient, and—like kids and adults everywhere—just want to be happy and enjoy life.
At the end of the night, before signing off one client said, “I’m so grateful for all that you do for us and for all accompanied children. Thank you so much.”
Learn more about KIND’s storytelling work here.
