Kristen Miyeko Photography

Palak’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? While visiting my hometown for the holidays, I wanted to help meet the needs of girls in my community. I donated 32 packs of pads to a local orphanage that provides housing and care for 17 adolescent girls. Menstrual products are essential yet often unaffordable for those facing economic constraints. By donating pads, my goal was to assist the orphanage in accessing menstrual products for some time.

This ‘Intentional Act of Kindness’ process reminded me that all support - through donations of time, talent, or treasure - makes an impact. My hope was that in some small way, this donation gave the girls both physical products they require as well as the emotional support of knowing their community cares about their health and wellbeing.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My female role model in life is my mother. She is a homemaker who embodies selflessness and lives modestly just to invest in my brother and me. I’m inspired by her humility and grounded nature. Even though she didn’t work outside the home, she always encourages me to dream big and set ambitious goals. The security and confidence she gave me through her selfless care allows me to fearlessly follow my passions today. I admire her quiet strength and the dignity with which she leads our family. Whether standing up for me or making personal sacrifices, my mother leads first and foremost by example. For modeling courage and compassion, she is my forever role model.

How do you encourage other women to be strong? Build a support system and be open to both giving and receiving help from it. None of us can or should feel like we need to handle everything alone. Whether it’s friends, family, or others, relying on your community makes you stronger. I encourage the women around me to make space for all their emotions- feel your fear, hurt, and stress, you don’t have to always have it all together. Go easier on yourself when you miss the mark. Progress comes from effort over time, not performing flawlessly. Stay anchored in self-compassion along the way. The connections we share lighten every load.

Amélie’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated to the Refugee Artisan Initiative (refugeearts.org). RAI was founded by Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman, an immigrant from Taiwan, who was inspired by her grandmother’s skill at sewing. Ming-Ming was driven to support refugee and immigrant women to achieve financial independence in the US, hence RAI was born. Financial independence is the foundation for having career options and lifestyle choices. Having it allows us to set boundaries and make smart decisions about our health and the well-being of our loved ones. Not having it makes us vulnerable to unhealthy power dynamics at work and home. As an American, I know how meaningful it is to have financial independence in the US. I’m impressed with the work that RAI does for those who don’t yet have the privilege and cultural context they need to find their footing here. I decided to donate to RAI because I support its mission of creating a prosperous transition environment for refugee and immigrant women here in Washington.

The ‘Intentional Act of Kindness’ process was a wonderful way to take some time to reflect on what is meaningful to people across a spectrum of life experiences, and how I wanted to deliver this contribution of mine.

What advice would you give to the next generation of strong women? Rectify and forgive your mistakes. For a long time, I thought that being strong meant being so disciplined I never slipped up. Know that you will make mistakes, and that’s okay. What matters is that you minimize the negative effects, apologize, clean up your mess if you made one, and forgive yourself.

How does your culture shape your perception of strength? My ethnicity plays a big role in shaping my perception of strength. Much of this comes from my relationship with my great-grandparents. When I was a teenager, Papken, my great-grandfather, told me the story of how he survived death marches as a child by eating plants and becoming a slave to nomadic communities before escaping to an orphanage in Istanbul. Despite this harrowing experience, Papken’s definition of strength has a collective bend. He encouraged me to think of strength as having, and most importantly, enjoying a modest and comfortable life that is rich with joy and a community of very good people. As a result, it’s very important to me that I derive true joy and happiness from building my community, engaging in my work, and carving out my space in the world.

Cheryl’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I gave the full $100 to a friend with Parkinsons to help her with the high cost of the medication prescribed for her. This new medication is very costly. She is a faithful Christian that continues to trust and serve God. Among other things she is involved in discipleship and prayer ministries even with the limitations of the Parkinsons disease and other unrelated health issues. I wanted to be able to help her in her time of need.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? It's always a blessing to be in a position to be able to help someone whether it be a friend, casual acquaintance or perfect stranger. My friend was thankful to be receiving the funds to help her in her time of need. It gave me pleasure to be able to help her in this way.

How have your trials made you stronger? What stands out is the year of 2012. During that year there were 5 deaths and 7 instances of crime. 6 of the crimes were in or near my home. There was something every week for a two month period. I saw God’s faithfulness and protection. When my front door was kicked in and also when my car was stolen, a dear friend was staying at my place, neighbors came over to help. It was nice not to be alone. No one was harmed...just things.

God drew my attention to scriptures, devotionals, songs and a book that gave me a different perspective of the trials. The tendency is to dread them and see them as an awful thing to be endured. God taught me to see them as His gifts wrapped in an unexpected package and to look for His purpose in them. Maybe a lesson to learn, character to be developed, a deeper relationship with Him, the opportunity to share God’s faithfulness with an unbeliever that wouldn’t necessarily be interested in hearing about God otherwise. I did feel that I emerged from that period with a different perspective and increased strength.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? I have known Liz Ostby for about 51 years. She is one that has been faithful to the Lord and His Word and always has words of wisdom or insight to share. She sees spiritual lessons in everyday circumstances and in the world God has created. Even though Liz has walked with the Lord for many years she continues to learn and grow. She knows how to laugh, have a good time, relax and read a good book. At age 86 she is still walking half marathons annually, learning to do new things, sets goals as to what she wants to accomplish in the coming year. She chooses not to be limited by her age but continues to be active serving God and being a blessing to others.

#86

Ally’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I contributed the funds to help sponsor a girls Bible study retreat at my local church focused on raising up wise and strong young women. Young girls (8-12), can easily be overlooked or considered too young or immature to grasp concepts of wisdom and strength. But theses beautiful souls are ready to learn and be poured into. This retreat is a time for them to bond and time for their moms who are leading them to pour into them specially without the distractions of other siblings or responsibilities. I felt like it was the perfect opportunity to help raise up more strong women in my community.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I really appreciated having a set amount that I was supposed to spend by a certain time. Having funds set aside and dedicated helped me see opportunities to spread love and generosity all over my community in ways that I would normally shut down because I “don’t had the money..” This process helped me to be more mindful and intentional throughout the month and just consider ways I could help or encourage others.

How does family shape your perception of strength? People say that when you have kids you “love them so greatly that you would die for them”. This is true, but this love is so much deeper than that. It’s like the moment they are yours, a hook catches deep in your soul, and if anything were to happen to them those hooks would tear you apart and you would be wounded so deeply and gravely you can hardly imagine it.

And now that you have them and you love them, you are open, exposed, vulnerable to the deepest hurt anyone can know—loosing them.

This wound is similar with a spouse, but so much deeper when you have a tiny dependent soul that looks to you for everything they need. It takes such great strength to love so deeply and know that you are now vulnerable to greatest wound a person can know. I think this is a much deeper vulnerability and strength than I ever imagined. It makes me so grateful for the strength of my own parents in loving me and caring for me as well.

How have your trials made you stronger? Every trial I have gone through has shown me that I can experience great pain, but still come through whole. Every trial I have gone through has shown me that though I may walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I am not alone.

Kylie’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? One of my good friends has recently become a single mom. She has four kids and just took in her son’s friend who was experiencing an abusive home life. One of my favorite things about her is how fiercely she cares for others even when she has little herself. She is completely selfless, and wholly kind, always looking for ways to love on others. I gave her the money to help make ends meet this month and be able to buy groceries.

When a good friend is constantly meeting roadblocks that stop her from providing for her kids or making rent or having to choose between clothes for the kids or gas, you have to help. As a Christian, I believe that everything we have is really God’s to begin with; our job is to steward our finances and time to give those resources in a way that honors Him and builds His kingdom. Being able to give this gift to care for a wholly deserving family is exactly the kind of action God calls us to.

What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? To begin with, I was so thankful for Kristen and her generosity to consistently support acts like this. What an inspiring way to empower women, encourage generosity, and give women a platform to share their stories. The intentional acts of kindness part of the project reminded how powerful generosity is to both the giver and the one who receives. This friend has been on my heart for awhile now and this project gave me the opportunity to continue to financially support her and reminded me that giving is such a privilege and blessing. To be able to meet someone’s tangible need has inspired me to recommit to generosity and looking for opportunities to help others.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? Growing up, I thought crying and tears were a sign of weakness. I've always been an emotional person - when I'm overjoyed, excited, overwhelmed, gutted, etc., I usually cry. Especially with the negative emotions, I hated that I would cry. But I read this beautiful book that described tears as an expression of mourning for the way the world should be, an acknowledgement that the world is broken and not yet what it is intended to be. They can express the depth of our care for the broken things and not be merely a sign of weakness. I think tears can allow us to see the world with empathy and care in ways that stoicism isn't able to.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? When I was in college, I had a female campus pastor who showed me that women could be in the pulpit too. I had grown up thinking there wasn't much of a place for women in the church who felt called to ministry, but Mindy quietly and confidently modeled pastoral ministry. Her preaching was powerful and her mentorship was formational - for all students. As I grew in my own understanding of call, she encouraged the gifts and skills she saw in me. Eventually, I too became a pastor and now teach Christian Studies to young people. As women, the first time we get to see other women breaking the barriers between what is expected and what is possible can be formational in who we can become.

Ansa’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I spent $80 on making a care package for my friend who's been going through a really tough time with her daughter's health issues and frequent hospital stays. I wanted to show her some support and brighten her day. The remaining $20 went towards a Starbucks gift card for my brother-in-law, who's been a rock for our family, always there to lend a hand or babysit the kids when we need him.

My friend has been on my mind a lot lately, and I wanted to do something special to let her know I care. She's such a strong and positive person, even in the face of adversity, and I admire that about her. As for my brother-in-law, he's like our own personal village here in Seattle, always looking out for us and spoiling the kids. I thought a little thank you in the form of a coffee gift card would be the perfect way to show him our appreciation.

The 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process was actually really satisfying, and it made me want to do more of these little acts of kindness. I realized how often I think about doing something nice for someone, but then life gets in the way, and I never actually follow through. This experience reminded me how important it is to make intentional kindness a priority in my life.

How does your culture shape your perception of strength? Growing up in Pakistan, I was immersed in a culture that placed a strong emphasis on collectivism and community. The idea of being strong was often intertwined with the concept of sacrificing one's own needs for the betterment of others. I witnessed this firsthand in my father, who always put others before himself, whether it was paying for a family member's medical bills or supporting someone's education. The practice of distributing food and groceries to the less fortunate was also common, and there was a strong sense of paying it forward and finding strength in acts of kindness. It helped instill in me a deep sense of empathy and compassion towards others.

How have your trials made you stronger? Moving to the US with my twins for my husband's education was undoubtedly one of the most challenging times in my life. I had to leave behind everything I knew and deal with the added stress of assimilation and isolation due to the Covid pandemic. However, despite the difficulties, I am proud to say that I emerged from this experience stronger than ever. Through it all, I learned how to be self-sufficient and care for my children without the help of a support system. I found solace in the little things, such as taking walks around the neighborhood and perfecting family recipes to ease my homesickness. It gave me a newfound sense of independence and resilience as I worked to reimagine my career in a new country. I took small steps each day towards achieving my goals and, looking back, I see this as a crucial period of growth and strength that helped shape me into the person I am today.

Christine’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I gave the $100 to my Uber driver Mohamed in Cincinnati, Ohio. Mohamed’s strength and spirit inspired me and I felt honored to be able to recognize that at the end of the drive. Throughout the Uber ride from the airport to downtown Cincinnati, Mohamed told me about his family. He spoke with such pride for being able to come to America for 9 months in the year and work to provide for his wife and daughter back home, despite how he had to be away from home for 9 months at a time because his family did not travel with him. He told me about how when he finished his Uber shift he will switch over to driving his box truck. It was clear he was living a frugal life in America in order to send back as much as possible to his family. He inspired me with his graciousness and humility and I hope he was able to take some time for self-care as a result of the $100.

The'Intentional Act of Kindness' process was very intimidating! I carried around the crisp $100 bill for multiple months through multiple trips with it constantly at the back of my mind. I felt as though I needed to be a good steward and at the same time, I was afraid of my own “savior complex” where I felt as though I had to judge the potential recipients for their worthiness.

Who is a female role model in your life and why? My mother has always had the audacity to try when others would not. She reinvented herself at 50 years old, after having been a stay-at-home mom to return to school and earn a challenging masters degree in occupational therapy and she now works in that field. I like to say she gave me my Geronimo instinct.

How do you encourage other women to be strong? I try to embody the resources that helped me to where I am today. Resources that are compassionate and tactful in their understanding of unique situations and needs. Resources that are fierce in the application of time, money, connections, or skills to plug those gaps.

Cynthia’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated to the Kitsap Immigrant Assistance Center for their education, advocacy, and social justice fund for immigrants in Kitsap County.

Last year, I had the privilege of working with KIAC for my Service Corps elective. I met the passionate people behind the organization who are dedicated to making sure that immigrants in Kitsap County have a better life. Being an immigrant, I have a personal connection to the cause and wanted to spend my $100 supporting that cause.

The 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process was an absolutely rewarding experience, not only because I witnessed firsthand how much the KIAC and the people in that community are working to grow the organization, but because it also felt like I was completing a cycle. I'm committed to lending a hand to other immigrants and refugees who come here to start a new life but need help getting settled.

p.s. Cynthia is Soul 50, which means this 8.3 year project is half way complete!

Immigrant Assistance Center

What keeps you strong in times of trial? Knowing that I can inspire others.
I can think of no greater example than my journey to business school. This was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. I was met with discouraging test scores, unexpected delays, scams, and personal setbacks, all of which made me question whether or not I was cut out for business school. But, despite it all, I refused to give up.

As a first-generation student, I felt lost when I started my grad school journey. Today, I proudly share my story and lessons learned with other women who may be facing similar obstacles. I mentor and assist them in any way I can; knowing that I can play a small role in other women’s success motivates me to stay strong.

p.s. Congrats to Cynthia who will be graduating from the University of Washington: Foster School of Business in less than 1 month and heading to Microsoft!

How have your trials made you stronger?
I moved from Mexico to the US on the 4th of July 2016, thinking it would be a great day to move here when everybody is celebrating this country. That celebration soon turned into frustration when I realized that in this nation built by immigrants, immigrants were not welcome.

Moving here meant I had to start from scratch; that fancy school I graduated from back home meant nothing here. After hundreds of rejections, I landed an entry-level position with a salary so low that it was hard to make ends meet, especially with my husband still in school and working part-time at a restaurant. The political climate didn't, the presidential elections of 2016 were in full swing, and the rhetoric towards immigrants was hostile. "Building the wall" and "Mexicans being drug dealers, criminals, and rapists" were common themes. I heard people tell me to "go back to my country" and faced discrimination at work, where I was told not to speak Spanish even though I was hired as a bilingual employee.

I struggled with my identity and sense of belonging. I questioned myself a lot and wondered if I had made a mistake by coming here. But I refused to give up. Instead, I turned all the hostility and challenges into motivation to achieve my personal goals: professional growth and graduate education.

Now, years later, I celebrate who I am and where I come from. I'm proud of my heritage, my culture, my accent, and my story. I embrace my identity as an immigrant and am committed to sharing and educating others about our cultures.

Ni’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I bought school supplies for my second grade teacher through her online wish list. I really wanted to take this opportunity to thank someone whom I have not had the opportunity to thank yet, but I know I owe much of my success. I was not always a great student. Up until the second grade, I often skipped homework assignments and did poorly on tests. My second-grade teacher was the first person who acted on my disinterest and helped to turn me around. She was the only teacher in my school who spoke Chinese and therefore could communicate with my family. By taking the time to connect with my home life and making my family aware of the issue, she helped to get the people whom I cared about invested in my academic performance.

It was really rewarding to give back to this classroom and help my teacher continue to serve her students. I imagine there are others in her class, like second-grade me, who need her help and I’m hopeful that my small act of kindness will make her job just a little bit easier.

Who is a female role model in your life and why?
My grandmother was the strongest person I knew. She taught me what it meant to live a life serving others. I watched her grieve after my father - her only son - passed, but she never let this hurt get in the way of caring for her four grandchildren who needed her now more than ever. Her pain peeked through in how she continued to cook my father's favorite meals or held on to his old passports and licenses. Despite her evident suffering, there wasn't a single need that my brothers and I had that she did not prioritize and try her best to fulfill. She spent the rest of her life caring for us and through the pain, managed to teach us great lessons about gratitude, humility, and empathy.

How can you be strong and vulnerable? The Asian culture encourages individuals to control and suppress their emotional expressions. It has taken me years to unlearn this practice and understand the benefits of communicating feelings and expressing needs. If you do not share your needs, you then become the only person aware and capable of fulfilling them, and it begins to feel like a very lonely world when you come to rely on just yourself. By inviting others to share in this load, you allow yourself to be built up by another person, an act that can foster a powerful relationship between humans.

Fanny’s Intentional Act of Kindness

How did you use the $100? I donated to Teleton USA Foundation; a non profit which provides care to children with neurological, muscular and skeletal disabilities. Teleton's mission is to raise awareness to create a more inclusive world for children with disabilities. This nonprofit organization holds a very special place in my heart, largely due to my mother's unwavering support and encouragement for us to donate to their cause. Every year, we support their annual fundraising event, which is broadcasted on Univision, a prominent Spanish television network. The impact this nonprofit has on the community is truly remarkable and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a meaningful and inspiring cause.

Participating in this process was truly humbling and an introspective experience. It allowed me to delve deep into my understanding of what strength truly means and the kind of impact I wish to have in this world. As I pondered how to allocate the $100, I found myself grappling with the weight of responsibility that came with the decision. I wanted to ensure that whatever I chose to do with the money would be "worthy" of its purpose.

I suddenly had an epiphany - that the act of donating itself is a powerful and meaningful act of kindness. In this way, I came to realize that every act, big or small, carries value and can create a ripple effect of positive change.

As I contemplated where to direct my donation, my heart swelled with a sense of purpose and intention. The process helped me to not only feel a deeper sense of connection, but also reminded me of the strength and beauty of the human spirit. It inspired me to be more mindful and purposeful in my actions, and to never underestimate the power of acts of kindness.

How have your trials made you stronger?
I cut it all off. I stood in front of the mirror crying, feeling ugly and ashamed, thinking my beauty was gone, but the long-lasting lie prevailed. Telling my story to my family and friends was challenging, but also healing. The process was painful, lengthy, months full of self-doubt and insecurities. Inch-by-inch the pain and self-doubt gave way to confidence, empowerment, freedom, strength and pride. Through it all, I’ve come to realize that happiness only comes from being authentic and going after what matters most, a realization that is, on its own, extremely valuable.

Most of the time, I wear my hair natural because I love who I am. I hope that the Afro-LatinX’s and others who, for generations, have been forced to strip and hide who they are, may be encouraged. My renewed confidence in who I am comes to being comfortable in my own skin, and realizing that natural hair is whatever I want my hair to be - whether it’s curly or straight.

-latinx