Manuella is a tenth grade student in foster care in the state of New York. Manuella loves photography, creative writing, soccer, and music.
Manuella is determined to complete high school and attend college in California. She has her eyes set on higher education in San Francisco. Manuella plans to become a professional photographer. She is undecided on her college course of study but her choices include fashion photography and sports photography. If Manuella chooses to pursue fashion photography she plans to work in Milan, Italy. If she decides to pursue sports photography she will move to Georgia or back to New York upon graduation.
Manuella is wise beyond her years. Her greatest piece of advice to other teens in foster care is to never give up – never give up on any future plans, don’t give up on school, and don’t give up on people who are trying to help you. She also wants other foster teens to understand that the world doesn’t have to end because you are just as good as everyone else. “Keep going and you will make it somewhere in life,” she says. “Never look down at your situation or the reason why you’re in care because it doesn’t define who you are but what you make of your future does!”
You may also want to read: SPOTLIGHT on Jordan W.
Help eliminate negative stereotypes of teens in foster care by nominating a teen in for our SPOTLIGHT Teen of the Month recognition. The Teen Toolbox “SPOTLIGHT Teen of the Month” award recognizes a youth (14-21) in the foster care system that is leading a life of promise and making a positive impact in his or her community. Nominations are accepted on a continuous basis.
Nicki Sanders, MSW, Chief Visionary Officer
The Teen Toolbox utilizes youth portfolio development and civic engagement and academic empowerment strategies to help teens set goals for life after high school and create a road map to reach those goals through its PACKAGED FOR SUCCESS™ Programs. We are committed to supporting and raising awareness about the needs and potential of teenagers in the foster care system.
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