This week was a change of speed and atmosphere. Instead of working with youths 11-17 years old. I worked with 11-17-year-old girls and college students. It was the best week I’ve had all summer. We got to learn about fun things like skincare, body positivity, art, and baking.

This group is known as “Proyecto Mariposas” and is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. An organization meant to serve and empower young Latina girls in the Columbus area. It was an honor being an honoree member. Most of these girls have been in the program for years or previously been Mariposas and now are college students.

I did spend less time at my desk since my help was needed at the camp. I did manage to post 3 times on Instagram, complete my data analysis from the previous week and increased our Instagram following.

As a Latinx women who grew up in Columbus, I wonder how my life would have differed if I had participated in Proyecto Mariposas. The program also focuses on the bond that mothers and daughters have with each other. All the girls knew each other or at least were comfortable with each other. It was an amazing thing to be part of this magic, even if it was for this week.

After I am gone and living in another city (soon) I hope to keep the connection with the local latinx women I met at the camp. All but one were college students and will work as professionals. Something really important about this Fellowship for me is connecting with local latinx people and grow my network of Latinx professionals <3.

I will miss the Mariposas for the following weeks of the camp.

*Bonus*

In the midst of this all, we snuck in a visit to the Columbus Museum of Art, self-defense classes and a lip-syncing battle.