Empowering Well-being: My Journey in Advocacy and Leadership by Krrisha

Empowering Well-being: My Journey in Advocacy and Leadership by Krrisha - May 2024 Scholarship Essay

"Did you see how lean her muscles are?" whispered Tia with a mixture of admiration and jealousy. Beneath the cheers and trophies of tennis, I’ve learned how constant self-comparison and pressure to meet expectations, both their own and of others, have led to body image and mental health struggles of my teammates.

To combat this issue, I joined Harvard’s STRIPED Initiative. Collaborating with researchers, activists, lawyers, and more, we recognized the role of dangerous diet pills and supplements. I contributed my advocacy strengths and scientific knowledge, emphasizing the physiological consequences of diet pills. A law student brought her legal and ethical expertise; a psychology researcher shared her knowledge about the psychology behind body image issues, etc. Together, we contributed to legislation prohibiting diet pill sales to minors and spread body image awareness through social media.

Learning from fellow STRIPED researchers about how eating disorders are a major cause of body image issues, I was eager to find out more. Having a close teammate with anorexia inspired me to found MetaHealth. Through interactive cooking and nutrition workshops, we empower individuals to prioritize their well-being over societal standards. From aspiring chefs to psychology enthusiasts, the varying perspectives of members broadened our knowledge, allowing us to fully understand eating disorders and mental health to address members’ unique challenges. Discussing recipes and culinary traditions also helped us bridge backgrounds. A debate about the perfect amount of seasoning sparked a lively conversation about traditions and tastes. Each member contributed a unique ingredient to our mission.
Being a strong leader means taking initiative. I realized the power of my initiative to provide support for students. I learned how to use various activities and teaching approaches effectively, as well as how to create a safe environment for everyone to grow while embracing their uniquenesses. Being a strong leader also means checking up on every individual on the team and making sure they are contributing and growing. As well as organizing group lectures, I made sure to check up on each student’s progress and give them personalized advice. Initiative is vital for a leader to take charge and drive positive change. By joining Harvard’s STRIPED Initiative, I demonstrated my willingness to tackle pressing issues like dangerous diet pills. Collaborating with experts from diverse fields, we advocated for legislation to protect minors and raise awareness about body image. This initiative empowered me to make a tangible impact on a complex issue affecting my community.

Empathy is another crucial trait of effective leadership. Witnessing the struggles of my tennis teammates with body image and mental health issues, I felt compelled to take action. Founding MetaHealth allowed me to provide support and resources for individuals facing similar challenges. Through interactive workshops and discussions, we fostered a sense of understanding and compassion, helping participants prioritize their well-being over societal pressures.

Inclusivity is essential for creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. By embracing diverse perspectives within MetaHealth, we enriched our understanding of eating disorders and mental health. Each member contributed unique insights and experiences, fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. As a leader, I ensured that everyone had a voice and actively contributed to our collective mission.

Along with diverse perspectives, I shattered stereotypes and fostered an environment where everyone's journey of well-being was appreciated. I will use my leadership skills to create an open and supportive environment for everyone to learn and grow together. In college and beyond, I aim to be a strong source of support for my peers facing any barriers. I’ll continue building connections with people and empowering peers to not conform to societal standards.