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Problems Solved

March 7, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Question:
I don’t like smoking, but all my friends do. They are always buggin’ me to join them and smoke. I think it is gross. But they won’t shut up about it. What should I do?

Answer:
You are smart for not wanting to smoke despite the pressure. I think you should stand to your decision and tell your friends to respect your choice, or get new friends. If your friends are really your friends, then they will respect you and leave you alone. Also, I think you should help your friends because smoking doesn’t leave any good.
- Advice by Jasmin, age 14

No one should ever be pressured by friends. I mean all throughout your life you’ll see friends coming and going. You may think you’ll have the best friends forever, but it is only temporary. My personal opinion is you should never do something provoked by peer pressure!
- Advice by Velia, age 14

Question:
I really love my boyfriend. We’ve been dating for six months, but lately I’ve noticed that he is wanting to control ever little thing I do. He gets mad if I go out with my friends, and he wants me to spend all my time with him. He gets super jealous if I talk to any of my guy friends. It is great when it is just the two of us. When he is around his friends, he acts different. I want to stay together, but I don’t like the way he acts some times. How do I get him to change?

Answer:
I think that if a girl is being controlled by her boyfriend, then she should leave him. Some girls think that having an over-doing jealous boyfriend is cool because the guy really loves her. The truth is that this is dangerous. I don’t think any girl should be put down or be deprived of her rights.
- Advice by Jasmin, age 14

I think that she should break up with him, or tell him that she’ll leave him if he doesn’t start backing off. If he still acts like that or he gets worst, she should talk to his parents. If that doesn’t work and if it gets serious, then she should just get a restraining order.
- Advice by Samantha, age 14

By and For Latinitas

Filed Under: Advice for Girls, Get Real for Girls, Girls

Latina Artists in History

February 28, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Latina art history is known for its beautiful artisan craft works and weaving, but painters and print makers have been using all types of mediums to show their talents. We have gone throughout history to look for promising visual artists who have made an impact in the art world. These artists come from different genres in the art world starting from traditional folk culture, to surrealism, to impressionism. Each Latina artist is accredited and praised for their work and contribution to the art world or surrounding communities.


Frida Kahlo (July 6, 1907-1958)

Frida Kahlo holds many titles such as politician, feminist, and lover, but more importantly she’s a strong female/Latina (surrealist) painter. Inspired by her lack of physical activity after being bedridden from a horrific bus accident in 1925, Kahlo lived the life of an artist and became known for her strong and influential self portraits. Her paintings reflected her reality of a struggling and tumultuous life and marriage. She exhibited her work around the world and associated with other great minds in the arts, establishing great and long lasting relationships.

Carolina Antoniadis
Argentina native, Carolina Antoniadis was born into a family of artists and was destined to keep the tradition going. Starting off as a professor at the National School of Fine Arts in Prilidiano, Pueyrredon. Throughout many of her studies while teaching at the university, Antoniadis received fellowships to research and paint, always interested in the link between the problematics of art and design. She has won and received many awards for her distinct artistic creations that came about through much anticipation and is today, working and living in Buenos Aires. She has finished many collectives that have been exhibited throughout Argentina and the world.

Laura Lopez Cano
Laura Lopez Cano is an accredited painter who expresses women in a powerful light with true feminine qualities absorbed with inspirations from Hispanic culture and traditions. Cano has been recognized around the US for her community service, support and outreach contributions to many organizations that support education and women’s issues. She graduated with a BFA (Bachelor’s of Fine Arts) from the University of Texas at El Paso, and continued her studies in fashion illustration at Stephen’s College in Columbia, MO. Cano has multiple exhibits around the US and teaches college-level and private art classes.

 

 

Lola Cueto (Maria Dolores Velazquez)
Born on March 2, 18997 in Mexico City, Lola Cueto was a painter, print-maker, and puppet designer best known for her work in theater. A revolutionary for women in patriarchal Mexico, Cueto was one of the first women to attend the all boys academy of San Carlos, and also the first female student to be allowed into nude drawing classes. She traveled the world creating puppets and marionettes, and is well known for her impressionist style landscapes translated through her strong interests in Mexican handcrafts and folk art. After a life of creating traditional Mexican folk work, Cueto died January 24, 1978).


Judith Gutierrez (1927 – 2003)
Born in Ecuador, Judith Gutierrez moved to Mexico from political exile after studying at the school of fine arts in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and spending most of her childhood in a convent. Her artwork is engulfed with mystical scenes of nature, people, conjugated elements, and the cosmos all integrated into many different types of mediums. As a ritual, Gutierrez meditate before starting a piece, transferring the spiritual dream into her craft. Her artwork has been exhibited in galleries around the world displaying her celestial influence of the Latino Culture.


Norma Bessuet
Born in Buenos Aires Argentina in 1947, Norma Bessuet studied at the Slade school of fine arts in Britain. Her paintings consist of children and angels in a fantastical fairy tale-like setting, such images also seem mystical at times. Much of her work deals with the lone individual exposed in a natural and nurturing environment. Her work is displayed in many exhibitions around the world including the MOMA, Caracas, and Buenos Aires. She now lives and works in New York City.

Norah Borges (Leonor Fanny Borges Acevedo)
Born into and Argentine family of talented revolutionaries in 1901,Norah Borges was nothing short from great. Traveling the world at an early age, Borges was able to study different styles of art and participate in the Avant-Garde movement. Borges illustrated a number of magazine covers, books of poems for big publications, and painted portraits of authors, and poets including Juan Ramon Jimenez. With cubist influences, Borges’s work was seen in many Avant-Garde publications. After marrying and returning to Argentina, Borges supported anti-fascist feminist agendas during WWII. She later worked as a journalist, art critic and painter until her death in 1998.


Leonora Carrington
Born in Britain 1917, Leonora Carrington spent most of her life in Mexico known for her surrealist painting and writing abilities that originated from a life of emotional hardship. Starting her artistic career with no support from her family, she began showing her work in small galleries in Britain and New York that gathered a lot of hype. After a horrible romantic end with other surrealist, Max Ernst due to his arrest by the Gestapo, Carrington went into deep depression and was institutionalized. After an escape from the hospital, Carrington sought asylum at the Mexican Embassy and married Mexican Ambassador, Renato Leduc. Most of her work and writing was influenced by her times of depression, Mexican heritage and her childhood. She died May 2011 as one of the last surrealists painters of her era.

Filed Under: Girls, Her History for Girls, Leading Latinas for Girls Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Friendship Mistakes

February 28, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Friendships are often complicated and can end up in sticky situations where people get hurt. There are certain guidelines than can damage your relationship. Here are 5 friendship mistakes you should avoid :

1.) Using toxic words: Verbal abuse entails, yelling, using profane language or belittling others. When you are verbally abusive to someone, you are damaging your relationship with that person. Don’t be a toxic friend, treat your loved with respect. If a loved one is abusive toward you, you should be honest and talk to them about how it’s affecting you. Try and communicate effectively rather than be verbally abusive.

2.) Being selfish: There is nothing worse than being around a person who is selfish. Not knowing how to share your personal possessions and things can cause friction in your relationships. Rather than keep things to yourself, try sharing things with others. Don’t treat your friend or loved one like a possession. Share your time equally with all your friends and don’t be jealous if your loved one spends time with other people.

3.) Holding in your feelings: Keeping in your thoughts and feelings can be detrimental in your relationships. The only way to change things in the relationships is not by ignoring the problem or expecting them to realize what they did wrong. If you are unhappy with the relationship communicate with the person with whom you have a problem with. Remember, no one is a mind reader and if you have a problem no one will know about it unless you let it be known.

4.) Not having enough time to keep in touch: Life can get really hectic, especially as you get older and have to take on new and more time consuming responsibilities. Make sure to always find time for the people you love, no matter how crazy life gets. Even if it’s only a phone call or text message, let them know you haven’t forgotten about them and that you care about how they are doing. Also remember when you ignore others when they are in a time of need, they could grow distant. When a relationship isn’t as close as it used to be, it may difficult to have things go back to normal.

5.) Being possessive and jealous: Being jealous of those you love can lead to bad things. Being jealous entails many different forms. You can be jealous of the things your loved one has, or you can be possessively jealous and not want to share the people you love with the world. Either form of jealousy should be avoided, since it will only result in problems in your relationships and lead those you love to break away from your relationship with them.

Filed Under: 411 for Girls, Buzz for Girls, Girls

Quiz: Which Career Fits You?

February 28, 2013 By Leave a Comment

It is never too early to start thinking about your future.  First of all, congratulations on deciding to think about your education and possible career path.  The following quiz should help you reflect on your talents and abilities. Please don’t over think the questions too much. There is no right answer only an honest one, and  choosing a career should not be that difficult.

 

1) The teacher assigns a group project, and asks for the class to get in to teams you:

A) Stare at your paper, you don’t like these things, you prefer individual work

B) Are very thrilled, you already know who are the team players and called them out before anyone does

C) Look at your friend, and share glances with your other good friends, there is nothing like working but also playing

 

2) When working in a team project you are more likely to be assigned:

A) The research, your team knows how much you enjoy reading and writing and believes this position comes easy for you

B) Team leader, you enjoy being a part of the process and like when you have responsibilities

C) The creativity, you enjoy working with your hands and are a free spirit, people like having you around because of the way you see things

 

3) Your study area can be described as:

A) Very neat, your computer is your study area, portable and reliable

B) An above average desk, followed with a white board for notes and endless supply of postits

C) Flexible, you study where you feel inspired; one day you feel like the park, your bed or the kitchen

 

4) When you need help or need a question answered, you:

A) Google it, the Internet has all the answers

B) Debate it, you feel strongly about issues and to get the most out of a question you feel the need to mention every point possible and make the respondent really think about the answer

C) Feel comfortable asking, you enjoy personal interaction and personal opinions, for you there is no wrong answers only bad listeners

 

5) If your friends could identify you with a TV show character it would be:

A) Alex from Modern Family

B) Robin from How I Met Your Mother

C) Jess from The New Girl

 

Mostly A’s THE SCIENTIST

You are observant and like to think that you have all answers to all questions. You enjoy experiments but appreciate more individual work; you feel that with teamwork people can take credit for your work.  You like to give yourself challenges and you are your worst critic. Even if you are number one in the class, you need to be number one in the school and so on. Friends like having you around because they feel they can understand math or science better when you are around.

People with these personality traits tend to study: Math, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Web Development…

 

Mostly B’s THE MANAGER

You are, what your friends would say…bossy, and you love it. You like being in charge, in control but most of all you like responsibility. You enjoy signing up for extra curricular activities, but not always go for just Team Member role. You feel strongly about leadership and believe that you can do something that will change the world one day. Being informed on news and political issues is part of your everyday breakfast. Your friends like having you around because you are determined and make weekend plans a much more efficient thing.

People with these personality traits tend to study: Business, Law, Public Relations, Marketing, Economics…

 

Mostly C’s THE ARTIST

You are a free spirited, you enjoy going with the flow. You like being surrounded with things and people that inspire you. Your friends can describe you as goofy and they know that your choice in clothing can be unpredictable. You seem to have an open mind and are very positive about new things and people. You enjoy working with your hands. You are an enemy to routines and are curious.

People with these personality traits tend to study: Advertising, Photography, Interior Design, Architecture, Fashion…

Filed Under: Fun Stuff for Girls, Girls, Quizzes for Girls Tagged With: , , , , ,

Why Are You Proud to be Latina?

February 27, 2013 By Leave a Comment

The reasons to be proud as a Latina are endless with a culture full of rich traditions and history. These Latinitas editors and readers share their top reasons to be proud of their culture.

I’m proud to be Latina because of what an amazing culture I have. My culture has rich food, spectacular dances, a beautiful language and a happy and energetic atmosphere. My people have faced many struggles which they’ve all overcame. We Hispanics are determined and hardworking. We also have made so many contributions to this world. I also have a strong sense of belonging unlike caucasians who can be 20%  Irish, 15% French, 30% German and  35% Czech Slovakian and they only speak English. I love my culture I love the unity Hispanics have. I am proud to be Latina!

- By Carolina Sosa

There are many reasons why I am proud to be a Latina, but most of a ll it’s because I have the opportunity to appreciate more than one culture.
I love the fact that I grew up with two languages, and have been able to use them both for my career. My parents always told me that being bilingual has its advantages, and the fact that I can relate to a great group of people is rewarding. I appreciate my Latin, Spanish, and American roots. I also like the fact that I grew up with a diverse community of individuals. One of the things I learned in my 22 years of life, is not only appreciating one’s own identity, but also the identity of others. To be strong leaders in our nation, it takes the power of people who can keep an open mind, and see the value of different perspectives. Being Latina is part of my identity, and I make sure to carry that with me wherever I go.

- By Gabriella Landeros

 

My father came to the U.S. from Mexico when he was just 12. His mother sent him here so that he could have better opportunities. He suffered but he made something of himself. I am grateful for what my father did and extremely proud to call him my dad. Being Latina for me is a reminder of all he did for me and my sisters.

- By Kristyn Anguiano

 

Being a minority in a country full of different cultures is not that rare, and being a proud Latina in the United States is becoming more and more prevalent in today’s day and age.

My top reason to be proud is because being a Latina is something that completes me. Growing up on a border town I didn’t realize how comfortable it was to live in a world where mostly everyone else was of Hispanic descent. Then I moved away for a few years and was under some kind of culture shock where the majority of the population was what some call a “melting pot,” with a hint of Texas. I was able to really appreciate my culture in the mixture of different cultures and I actually took time to learn more about Mexican and Latin American History. My best friends came from different types of backgrounds and although we are all the same race, human, there are many ways in which our individual characteristics made up who we are. This is where I found out we can all learn from each other’s culture which made me realize I am a Latina, and don’t know who I’d be without my Mexican background.

- By Laura Werthmann

 

Readers share what makes them the most proud of their culture: 

“I am proud to be Latinita because of the food.” -Alba

“I am glad to be a Latinita because I can speak Spanish. Speaking Spanish is fun!” -Elena

“My favorite part about being latina is my hair because it’s beautiful and I love it!” -Evelyn

“I like Mexican food. I love pozole especially because it is so delicious.”-Alexandria

“I like Christmas the best because we make tamales and listen to good music and spend time with my family”
-Sonia

“I like spanish rock music and I’m glad we have that in our heritage. Dancing is a fun part of being latina too”
-Natalie

Filed Under: Culture for Girls, Girls, Latina Beat for Girls Tagged With: ,

Movie: Bless Me, Ultima

February 21, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Blessed by Ultima

By Cemelli De Aztlan

It’s rare to call a movie a blessing, but in this case, it truly is. The recently banned book– “Bless Me, Ultima”- by Rodolfo Anaya has defied censorship and has propelled itself onto the cinematic scene. Re-birthed through film, “Bless Me, Ultima” accomplishes what it did many years ago when it was first published in the 1970’s – a sort of ‘coming out party’ for the Mexican-American culture- coming out without the fear or shame that our culture had felt for too long.

Watching the film on the big screen at the world premier, amongst all the glitz and glamour was a night to remember. Cast members were greeted by flashing cameras as they exited their classic low-rider cars, stepping onto the red carpet at the historic Plaza Theater in El Paso, TX. It made me feel as if two worlds had collided- Hollywood and El Paso. And, perhaps the collision reminds me more of the profound distance our Mexican-American community has had with main stream culture; this was the first time I was sitting in a theater where the ‘minority’ actors in the film had actually become the majority.

The landscape of Santa Fe and Abiquiu, New Mexico- where the film was shot- drew me in close, comforting me with the assurance that I was entering into territory I knew in my blood. Already in tears by the first scene, my emotions tangled by the magic happening before my eyes, a sense of enchantment overcame me.

A story about an 80-year-old woman and an 8-year-old boy doesn’t seem like the kind of film a big name production company would be interested in, competing alongside films with exorbitant special effects and commercial hype. But, director and screenwriter, Carl Franklin knew that this is a story worth telling.

In the film, upon first meeting Ultima, the curandera played by actress Miriam Colon, her touching beauty contradicts the fear that surrounds her. Stigmatized as a ‘witch’ by the community- heavily influenced by Catholicism, Antonio, the 8-year old boy, played by Luke Ganalon-doesn’t know what to expect. Yet, when they meet, he instantly feels a connection- there is a spark. Ultima leans gently to greet little Antonio and reminds him of the last time they’d seen each other-she was the midwife at his birth. Coming full circle, she also pronounces that she’s come back to live with them, to die.

The film, “Bless Me, Ultima” depicts the struggle between ‘good’ and‘evil’, but more so, it depicts the struggle between the indigenous and the invasion. The traditions of the past – knowing the land, the animals, the moon and the spirits are demonized by the doctrines of the church. Antonio, young, pure and innocent finds the contradiction between what the church teaches as good and evil, to be at odds with what he sees in Ultima, a traditional curandera or healer. Ultima takes Antonio under her wing and shows him the songs of nature and the spirit of the land, and through those teachings he’s left wondering why man is so disconnected from the magic that is life. Driving down Calle de la Luna, he asks Ultima, “Do you think if God was a woman, she’d forgive them?”

By the end of the film Antonio wonders why those who call on Ultima for healing, all eventually, shun her. Those few that protect her are Antonio’s father, Gabriel Mares-whose blood runs wild like the sea, played by actor Benito Martinez,  and Narcisco- the town drunk, played by our own Juarez native, Joaquin Cosio.

Ultima, in Spanish pointedly translates as ‘The End’. And, in the end we are left wondering if Antonio- the most dedicated of Ultima’s protectors, will carry-on the ancient healing traditions passed on to him or just nostalgically bury them and have Ultima- be their ultimate end.

I hope that communities everywhere embrace this film and perhaps through the blessing of Ultima on the big screen, we too, can begin to heal.

Filed Under: Fun Stuff for Girls, Girls, TV & Movies for Girls

5 Ways to Volunteer

February 20, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Volunteering is a rewarding experience. The memories you make as a volunteer will last a lifetime. One of the best benefits that is obtained from volunteering is the fact that you have made an impact on someone’s life!  Here are five fun ways you can get started in helping make a difference in your community today. Go out and try them!

1.) Animal Shelters

There are many different non-profit organizations across the U.S that dedicate their money and time to building and maintaining shelters for homeless or abused animals. However, aside from monetary donations, the animals in these shelters are also in much need of love and plenty of attention!  Volunteer opportunities vary in every shelter, but all you need to volunteer at these animal shelters is a BIG heart and lots of love. General volunteer activities include, but are not limited to, walking the animals, playing with them, and assisting with cleaning kennels. You may also be assigned to running errands that help the shelters maintain a clean and safe environment for the animals. Volunteering with animals will not only warm your heart, but you will be contributing to an under-serve area of your community. Who knows, you might find yourself falling in love with one of the lovable creatures and wind up adopting the dog or cat!

2.) Volunteer at Your Church

It doesn’t matter what religion or faith you practice, because most churches and religious congregations offer various community service opportunities. There are many different activities available at your local church and may include joining a ministry, singing for the church choir, helping out with any festivals or fundraising activities. Many times families from the local communities reach out to churches when they find themselves in need of help. Churches are not just places for worship, they often reach out to help local families as well.

Mari Ruiz is a volunteer catechism teacher at St.Thomas Aquinas Church and she mentions, “It is really rewarding to volunteer in the community, because you give your time and effort to help other people who need it and you don’t ask for anything in return.” “One of the most memorable moments that I have had while volunteering would be seeing the changes the kids in my Catechism class have had from one year and a half ago to now, how they’ve grown up and how much stronger and more knowledgeable they are of their religion.”

3.) Help at a Woman’s Shelter

Volunteering at a women’s shelter can be a very unique learning experience for a young Latina.  Jazmin Vasquez,  a volunteer for  Latinitas and local women shelters, says, “You get to know many women and hear their stories and experiences and in that sense you learn a lot from them. There is always plenty of work to go around, most of it is making sure that the person is getting all the help they can get, whether it be food, clothes or  counseling.” The experience of volunteering at a women’s shelter is all in all a positive one.

4.) Be a Youth Coach

Are you good at sports, dancing or playing the piano? Join a little league and help coach kids younger than you. It a good way to get some exercise and volunteer at the same time! You can also help coach other extracurricular activities, such as dance, gymnastics and music lessons. The point of helping those who are younger than you is to mentor them and help them achieve their goals.  Check listings at your local community centers or recreational centers. If there aren’t any listings of any activities you can coach, you can start your own!

5.) Go to a Local Food Bank

This activity you can do with a parent or older sibling. Food Banks collect and distribute food to underprivileged adults and children. According to www.worldhunger.org, in 2010,  17.2 million households did not have a secure supply of food. This was the highest number ever recorded in the United States. Donation is one option, but you can also volunteer at your local food bank by organizing a food drive, collecting food items, and distributing the canned goods. Some food banks collaborate with soup kitchen to prepare food. Ask your local food bank if this option is available. Don’t have time to organize or volunteer at a local food bank? You can scavenger your pantries and collect any unused, unexpired food items you may have and donate them to your local food bank.’

Filed Under: Get Real for Girls, Girls, Take Action for Girls

Poetry: I Am Beautiful

February 20, 2013 By Leave a Comment

I am beautiful by Yazmine S.
I am beautiful because
Of my hair color.
I am beautiful because
I am nice.
I am beautiful because
Of my eye color.
I am beautiful because
I have curly hair.
I am beautiful because
I have friends.

I am beautiful by Perla M.
Beautiful
Eager
Awesome
Usually Random
Totally friendly
Independent
Funny
Unique
Love my family
That’s why I am beautiful

I am beautiful by Dania C.
I am beautiful because
Of my eyes.
I am beautiful because
Of my hair.
I am beautiful because
I am short.
I am beautiful because
Of my smile.
I am beautiful because
I am nice.
I am beautiful because
I am funny.
I am beautiful because
Of my name.
I am beautiful because
I am smart.
I am beautiful because
I go to school.
I am beautiful because
I like dancing.

I am beautiful by Samantha D.
I am beautiful because
Of my eyes.
I am beautiful because
Of my hair.
I am beautiful because
I am Mexican.
I am beautiful because
Of my height.
I am beautiful because
I am nice.
I am beautiful because
I am awesome.
I am beautiful because
I can type.
I am beautiful because
I am proud of how I am.
I am beautiful because I am me!

I am beautiful by Liliana A.
I am beautiful because
I like to help people.
I am beautiful because
I have long hair.
I am beautiful because
I am tall.
I am beautiful because e
I have black eyes.
I am beautiful because
I can sing.
I am beautiful because
I can dance.
I am beautiful because
I can draw pretty.
I am beautiful because
I like soccer.
I am beautiful because
I am smart.
I am beautiful because
I go to school.

I am beautiful by Isabel R.
I am beautiful because
Of my eyes.
I am beautiful because
I have nice hair.
I am beautiful because
I am smart.
I am beautiful because
I am somewhat tall.
I am beautiful because
I am nice to people.
I am beautiful because
I have a big hand.
I am beautiful because
I have a beautiful nose.
I am beautiful because
I have two nice ears.
I am beautiful because
I run fast.
I am beautiful because
I like reading.

I am beautiful by Abby A.
I am beautiful because
Of my eyes.
I am beautiful because
I am short.
I am beautiful because
Of my smile.
I am beautiful because
I am nice.
I am beautiful because
I can sing.
I am beautiful because
Of my grades.
I am beautiful because
I am cute.
I am beautiful because
I like cheerleading.

I am beautiful by Salama L.
I am beautiful because
I am a good person.
I am beautiful because
I like school.
I am beautiful because
I am funny.
I am beautiful because
I have a lot of friends
I am beautiful because
I am smart
I am beautiful because
I like food.
I am beautiful because
I like to hear music.
I am beautiful because
I like to paint.
I am beautiful because I am beautiful.

I am beautiful by Samantha C.
I am beautiful because
My eyes are as green as grass.
I am beautiful because
I have short hair.
I am beautiful because
I am tall.
I am beautiful because
I can draw.
I am beautiful because
I love animals.
I am beautiful because
I love dogs and cats.
I am beautiful because
I have brown hair.
I am beautiful because
I smile a lot.
I am beautiful because
I am nice.
I am beautiful because
I love my family.

I am beautiful by Elizabeth L.
I am beautiful because
I have straight hair and a unique color of eye.
I help people when I can and I never make people feel small.
I am very clean and neat.
I don’t care what people say, I don’t judge people because I don’t need to.
I’m beautiful because I never talk about people behind their backs that’s why I am beautiful.

Filed Under: Girls, Poetry for Girls, Your View for Girls

Gymnast: Madison McGuire

January 31, 2013 By Leave a Comment

At only age 8, Madison McGuire already has big dreams and has her plans set on becoming an Olympian. Madison McGuire has been in gymnastics for four years now and has come a long way, but not without the help of her family. She has a twin, three brothers, a loving mother, father and stepmother to keep her motivated. She has turtles, a cat named Bella, and two dogs. When I met with her, she had just broken the growth plate in her big toe while running onto the vault and stumbling on her foot.

In the process of the bone breaking event, Madison was training for a National testing opportunity, just after being recruited from the Talent Opportunity Program (TOPS) in Huntsville, Texas. This program evaluates female gymnasts on their physical abilities. These programs are for the coach and the gymnasts, as they go through training methods on the national level. Madison’s mom, Amanda Amaya, said that they’re very eager to try again next year. The regional testing is in the summer and Madison should be recovered and ready to go when the time comes.

After participating in the TOPS program, Madison and her family’s goal is to become a level 10– she’s currently  at a level 7. The talent levels of gymnastics can be complicated at times, but Madison and her family are grateful to have done their research. Levels 1 through 6 require the girls to do the same routine, and are scored on their physical abilities and performance. Once they move up to levels 7 through 10, the girls are known as optional gymnasts and can exhibit their individual talents by creating their own routines and choosing their own music. Madison will compete in her first level 7 competition this February, held in San Antonio, TX.

Madison’s specialty is the bars, which pose as the hardest event in gymnastics, but she enjoys the challenge. When asked if she had any advice for girls in gymnastics, Madison states, “ You can do it. It’s very fun doing all the tricks, it was hard for me when I first started, but it got easier with practice. The medals make it all worth it.” Ms. Amaya, Madison’s mother, proudly claims that their goal is to keep Madison healthy and happy throughout her gymnastics career, but their dream is the Olympics. In life, Madison hopes to go to the Olympics, after that she hopes to pursue a career as a veterinarian, or a gymnastics coach. And just like any other little girl her age, Madison likes reading the “American Girl Books”– her favorite character is Samantha. Latinitas is so excited to spotlight Madison and we wish her luck on her athletic journey, the Olympics would be a great feat!

Click here to watch a video of Madison on the bars!

Filed Under: Girls, Her History for Girls, Super Stars for Girls

Friendship Advice: Fitting In

January 31, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Relationships can be hard especially with someone you really care for, or if the person you’ve known for a while is having trouble, or even if you’re trying to start a new one. Just remember that trust and communication can make or break any bond whether it be in the beginning or end of a friendship. As long as you can be yourself and understand one another, there shouldn’t be any problems. If there are problems there’s always a way to fix them, that’s where Latinitas comes in.

Question: “Whenever my best friend says or does something really mean to someone I point it out because I feel that’s what friends should do. The only problem is that whenever I’m honest with her she gets really defensive and threatens to end our friendship. How do I remain honest without losing my best friend?”

Advice: Honesty is the key to any relationship, whether it be family or friends. You’re doing the right thing in asking your friend to reflect on her actions or words, especially if their intention is meant to hurt someone else. Try to step back and put yourself in her shoes for a second. Think about how you would react to being approached and called out on something you feel strongly about, even if it’s wrong. Try to approach your friend the same way you would want to be approached in order to avoid tension, and be fair and calm. If you feel that doesn’t work, resort to honesty again. Tell her why you’re asking her to stop saying those things or why you make an effort to point them out. Let her know that she’s still your best friend and that your friendship means a lot to you. Explain to her that you want her to be honest with you and that you hope she feels as confident in your friendship as you do. The key is to be calm and understanding of what your best friend is feeling. Hopefully, reflecting and being honest to her about your friendship will help her understand that saying mean things is not right and that being honest is beneficial to any strong friendship.

Question: “I’m new to a school where there are a lot of cliques and I keep finding myself getting bullied because I can’t seem to fit in anywhere. How can I deal with being bullied  and make friends fast?”

Answer: Being new is incredibly hard and you should acknowledge that it’s difficult. Take a moment for yourself and breathe. Before rushing into friendships decide what it is that draws you to people. Because you’re being bullied, you could make a rash decision and end up in a group you don’t feel comfortable being with. You’re dealing with three very difficult and stressful situations. In order to figure them out and keep your cool, start with the one that’s bothering you the most. Assuming it’s bullying, talk to an adult you trust and let them know what’s going on. Bullying is something that should never be taken lightly. What may seem like no big deal now can escalate further down the road. It’s incredibly important that you feel safe in an environment and a community that is new to you. Once you have found a way to deal with the bully then you’ll be able to focus on making friends and adjusting to your new school. Try to break the cliques and surround yourself with positive people that you’re comfortable with. Don’t worry about fitting in to one specific group and having to act a certain way. Friends are people you can be yourself around and will accept you for who you are. Keep that in mind as you continue to encounter new faces.

Filed Under: Advice for Girls, Get Real for Girls, Girls
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