Each month we introduce you to one of our Big and Little Sister matches and give you a glimpse into the special bond they share.
Big Sister Amanda Martinez & Little Sister Mickaella
Amanda lives in Quincy and is also a member of Big Sister’s Diversity Council, whose members recruit women of color from their personal and professional networks to become Big Sisters. The Council also fosters partnerships with neighborhood organizations that work with communities of color. Mickaella, age 12, lives in Cambridge. They have been matched since January 11, 2008.
Before I had a Big Sister…I didn’t know as much, and I probably would not have known, as much as I know now.
I wanted a Big Sister because…I wanted more adventures and experience in life.
My Big Sister has helped me…learn that there is more to life if you look at it from a different point of view.
Without my Big Sister I would not…know how much fun it is to eat Indian food or that I am smarter than I think I am.
Our favorite thing to do together is…arts and crafts, and also learning about new cultures, whether through an artistic activity, meeting new people or trying new foods.
We are looking forward to…having an active summer! Going rock climbing, rollerblading, bike riding, and swimming.
I love being a Big Sister because…it gives me the opportunity to have a positive impact in a young girl’s life and to learn about other people’s life experiences.
I love having a Big Sister because…it is like having an automatic friend
Since we’ve been matched my Little Sister has really…opened my eyes to a new way of thinking. She has many talents including writing poems, drawing, and painting, as well as being a good student. She has a great zest for life and is continuously trying to learn new things. She also has an amazing smile that can brighten anyone’s day!
It is important for girls today to have positive female mentors because…there is a lot negative messaging that is pinpointed towards girls, whether it’s the clothes we wear, the way we style our hair or what the best body type is. Having a mentor gives a young girl an opportunity to concentrate on what she has to offer on the inside. It helps them learn that intelligence, creativity, confidence, and independence are even more beautiful than looking good in a pair of designer jeans.
My Big Sister is perfect for me because…we have a lot of things in common–we like to eat, make art, and explore.
