Kudos

In the summer of 2021, Niara found herself exhausted by the repetitive nature of her online classes and her research position. She was overworked and struggling. “I wasn’t talking to anyone who could support me,” she shared. “Not my parents, friends, or the people in my research program. I was incredibly stressed and all these emotions piled up.”

Overwhelmed, Niara took a semester off, hoping to reconnect with herself. She knew staying home all day wouldn’t be healthy, so she looked for volunteer opportunities through the Pace Center. It was here that she found a sense of purpose and connection. Volunteering at Belmont Food Pantry and attending community meals at Pace gave her a much-needed sense of camaraderie. "It was so rewarding,” she said. “We were building something together. It really helped my self-esteem and mental health."

Niara’s experiences led her to Pace’s Fellowship program where she learned to recognize and celebrate the gifts of others. She soon discovered her own talent for affirming people’s strengths. Niara gave her peer, Grace, a compliment after hosting a successful meeting. “I told her that she did a good job and that the meeting had been well run.” Grace, nervous about moderating, was deeply moved by Niara’s feedback. “That interaction helped me understand the power of affirming someone,” Niara reflected. “It matters to comment on the things that someone is doing well.”

Another student, Ami, had been feeling checked-out. Niara’s genuine concern and kindness made Ami feel seen. Later, Ami affirmed Niara’s gift of kindness. “She said, ‘You made me feel welcomed and feel like a part of the space. It gave me confidence.’ It meant a lot to me when she said that. And we're still friends to this day!”

Now a VCU graduate, Niara continues to apply the lessons she learned from Pace to her current job with the American Heart Association. Niara and a co-worker started a “Kudos Wall” where they encourage colleagues to recognize each other’s achievements. “We support each other by putting stickies up anytime we notice someone in the office did a good thing,” Niara explained.

Your support enables students like Niara to use their gifts and affirm others’ gifts. Thank you!