Student Spotlight
When Aicha joined DMF Youth three years ago, her world often felt overwhelming. A deeply sensitive and caring child, she struggled to manage her big emotions. The smallest upset could send her into tears, leaving her peers unsure of how to respond and causing Aicha to feel isolated.
Fast forward three years, and Aicha’s transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. Today, she is a confident, emotionally aware leader, channeling her feelings into positive communication and building stronger connections with those around her.
Growing Emotional Intelligence
In her first year, Aicha found comfort in the program’s supportive environment, but the real change came as she embraced the social-emotional lessons embedded in every DMF Youth session.
Her sister and caregiver, Tina, describes the growth she’s witnessed:
“She has improved on her emotional side of herself so much. Before, she used to cry about the little things and get angry. Now, when she wants to get emotional, she starts to talk it out first.”
For Aicha, the change has been just as empowering. She says:
“Since I was in first grade, I always loved to dance a lot, and I was excited even on the first day. I used to have really big emotions, but by talking about them and being able to share my feelings, it helps me.”
A Favorite Moment
Tina lights up when asked about her favorite moment watching Aicha thrive:
“I love to see her trying. Cheering her on.”
Aicha, too, has her favorite moments: the “awesome meter parties” and being supported for listening in class. But more than that, she cherishes the sense of belonging and support she feels at DMF Youth.
“[DMF Youth] makes me feel happy and excited,” she says with a smile.
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
DMF Youth’s unique blend of dance, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning doesn’t just create better dancers; it builds future leaders. Aicha explains:
“I always follow the dances and mindfulness. That helps me lead by example.”
Tina echoes this sentiment:
“I think it’s important because you guys know how to teach kids emotionally and physically. She says all the time, ‘Oh wait, I learned this from Miss Alexa!’ or ‘Oh yeah, I have to try this instead.’”
A Call to Action
Aicha’s journey demonstrates the power of your support. With your help, DMF Youth continues to provide a nurturing space where children like Aicha learn, grow, and become resilient leaders.
Join us in building tomorrow’s leaders today. Your generosity changes lives, one child at a time.
Donate Now to support students like Aicha!