2023 Jr. PAL of the Year
Meet 15-year-old Fatima Garcia, Nashua PAL’s Jr. PAL of the Year! Fatima, a sophomore at Nashua South High School, has a bright spirit and caring nature for her community. Fatima’s journey with PAL began at a very young age. At 2 years old, she and her mom would walk her sisters, Perla and Jenny, to PAL. As a strong young leader at PAL, Fatima has been actively involved in mentoring younger members, organizing community events, and advocating for positive change.
One of Fatima’s most admirable qualities is her unwavering commitment to being there for others. Even in the midst of her busy schedule, she takes the time to drop by to check in with her mentors and is always ready to offer assistance. Jaela Solis, Nashua PAL’s Youth Safe Haven Program Coordinator and mentor, says, “Fatima has such a great sense of humor and huge heart! The way she cares about her family and the kids in the neighborhood is inspiring. Fatima always checks to see who needs to be walked home, or if someone is upset she will find out why and how she can help. Fatima never wants anyone else to be sad or hurt, even when she’s dealing with her own challenges.”
Fatima finds immense joy in being with people and actively participating in activities that enhance their lives and uplift the community. She has done an outstanding job advocating and sharing her positive PAL experiences with the community, earning their trust in her words through her actions. Jaela said, “I’m proud of the young leader Fatima is becoming!”
Looking ahead, Fatima has dreams of becoming a flight attendant or pursuing a career in food technology, a field she is currently learning about in school. Fatima fully engages in each day, embracing the moments with enthusiasm and a heartwarming smile. Congratulations to Fatima for being named Jr. PAL of the Year!