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 Ayanna Pressley & Little Sister Arianna
Ayanna, Boston’s At-Large City Councilor, lives in Dorchester and Arianna, 15, lives in Mattapan. They have been matched since February 8, 2010.
Councilor Pressley is currently spearheading Ayanna’s BIG Challenge, a campaign to recruit more mentors. To find out more, click here, or click here to apply online to become a Big Sister!
Before I had a Big Sister…It was definitely less fun. Now, when I’m bored, I just text my Big Sister. She always has something fun and interesting going on. I’ve met cool people too, like Mayor Menino and Governor Patrick.
I wanted a Big Sister because…I have two brothers, but I always wanted a sister to talk to and hang out with.
My Big Sister has helped me…Even though she drives me crazy when she does it, I do at least think about eating vegetables now, or just eating healthier in general. My Big Sister makes me feel important. She always asks me what I think about an issue or something she’s working on. My opinion matters to her. Sometimes I can be shy about sharing it, but she always asks. I’m thinking about becoming a lawyer when I grow up, so my Big Sister asking me a lot of questions will help me to be a better lawyer. She always wants me to explain why I think or feel a certain way.
Without my Big Sister I would not…have as much fun. I love going to her apartment to hang out. We don’t always have to go out to have a great time.
Our favorite thing to do together is…to go to the movies. Afterwards we get something to eat and talk about our favorite scenes. Sometimes my Big Sister gets mad because I figure out the movie ending early and ruin it for her.
We are looking forward to…going bowling, maybe apple picking, and definitely planning and celebrating my sweet sixteen next February!
I love being a Big Sister because…I am an only child, so it’s been wonderful and new to have a Little Sister to hang out with, and occasionally lecture about school, her eating, boys, future goals etc. Did I say, occasionally lecture? I also love having Arianna in my life because she keeps me honest.
I love having a Big Sister because…it’s cool to have a grown up in my life who has gone through a lot of the same things that I have, but isn’t so old that I can’t relate to her or talk honestly.
Since we’ve been matched my Little Sister has really…opened my eyes to the life challenges and mature decisions girls are faced with today. Listening to her inspires and informs everything that I do. She motivates me to do and be my best because I want to set the best example for her.
It is important for girls today to have positive female mentors because…in order for girls to be it, they must first see it. Positive female mentors let them know what is possible.
My Big Sister is perfect for me because…we have so much in common. Our names are almost identical. Our birthdays are two days apart, and we both love shoes–I love sneakers and she loves high heels. She loves cake and I love ice cream, so it works out.
Because of my Big Sister I will…achieve whatever I want in life, and have her support, advice, and occasional lecturing (about boys, my eating and texting) every step of the way. I know we’ll always be in each other’s lives.
