Rafaela Follows in the Footsteps of Big Sister Lynn

“I don’t really know where I’d be, or who I would be without Lynn.” – Rafaela, Little Sister

 

The Beginning of a Life Changing Journey

Rafaela was still in a booster seat when she was first matched with her Big Sister Lynn. Coming from a single parent household, she was referred to Big Sisters for extra support outside of the family unit to help her understand and realize her full potential at a time when she was feeling lost and insecure.

“When I was younger, I wished I was different. I didn’t really have a lot of friends. I was indecisive—but I don’t think I was ever indecisive about Lynn.” – Rafaela

Rafaela was quiet, reserved and a little shy, but also inquisitive, considerate and smart – just like her Big Sister.

 

Building Trust and Confidence

From the beginning, Lynn remembers feeling a deep connection with Rafaela. She understood what it was like to grow up as a quiet, but thoughtful, young girl. “I really understood her and where she was at.”

Lynn let Rafaela choose the activities they did every week. This small gesture helped Rafaela become more decisive and confident in her decision making. They tried all sorts of different hobbies and eventually began to bond over baking, an activity they still enjoy today.

As they got to know each other more, Rafaela became more comfortable opening up about school, friends and family. They began to talk about Rafaela’s hopes and dreams, and Rafaela was inspired to learn that Lynn was a Lawyer. It was a light bulb moment, showing her for the first time that you don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to be a success.

 

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Following in Her Big Sisters’ Footsteps

Over the years, Lynn’s example and encouragement has helped Rafaela believe in her own potential. She began to dream bigger and was awarded a Bright Futures Education Fund scholarship from Big Sisters to pursue post-secondary education. She is now working towards her undergraduate degree so she can follow her dream of becoming a Lawyer, just like Lynn.

Lynn shares, “I think [mentorship] just makes things more possible. Things that seem like a dream could be a reality.”

The most valuable lesson Rafaela has learnt on her journey so far is that you don’t have to change who you are to realize your dreams.

“One thing that I’ve learned from Lynn is that you don’t have to change yourself for other people to like you and to be successful, I’m still the same person Lynn met 9 years ago. Lynn has helped me to be happy with who I am and to accept myself.”

Interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities with Big Sisters? Follow the link for details: https://www.bigsisters.bc.ca/become-a-volunteer-mentor/