As I was growing up I had the tendency to view the world like a camera. If I was biking to the neighbors house or climbing trees, I would observe my surroundings and look for ways I could capture the moment with a camera - even if I did not have one on me. 

My creativity felt untamable - everyday I constructed a new idea or story in my head. That creativity and curiosity manifested itself into wanting to have a career in being a voice for the voiceless and ask questions. These traits gave me the great fortune of being a warm and welcome individual to others beginning at a young age. My peers would share their stories with me or trust me with vulnerable memories. I was unaware then but now understand that those moments equipped me to go into a field of journalism.

In middle school, I was given my first camera. I would take it everywhere and take countless pictures - trees, bugs, street signs, people…you name it. This small little Fuji waterproof camera ignited the fire of my love for media. I was consistently trying to improve my skills upon every photo or video.  And when I was at an age to have my first cell phone, I became mesmerized with the ability to take videos just at the touch of my finger tips. I began filming everything I could. I would get lost in the world of my thoughts imagining the cinematography to all of my surroundings.

I feel at my best when there is a camera in my hand and I am connecting with someone, giving them a safe space and platform to elevate their voice. If I could go back in time and tell my younger self that the tiny, waterproof camera I took with me everywhere would open me up to another world, I think she would be proud that she did not let anyone get in the way of her creativity, empathy and curiosity.