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Kumusta MAFA ♥
Imma be real with you. Being on MAFA board this year was a rollercoaster of emotions, to say the least.
Some days felt like this:
While other days felt like this:
There were many ups and downs, and to be honest, I often asked myself... Why? Why put all the effort into researching and writing for the blog when I should really be studying? These thoughts crossed my mind several times; however, I can genuinely say that being on MAFA board has been one of my best decisions during college. The friendships that I've made, leadership skills that I've strengthened and stronger sense of identity that I've gained through MAFA are something that I can't find anywhere else.
I think that my favorite part of being on board this year was the chance to network with so many people. Naturally, I'm quite introverted, and so putting myself out there was definitely a challenge at first. But being a part of MAFA board felt like home the minute we all met each other, which honestly never happens for me. The visibility that comes with being on MAFA board also helped me to meet tons of other members and create relationships that I'm very grateful for! The MAFA community as a whole is something truly special– Although we sometimes might need to travel hundreds of miles to get together, I'll always be very grateful for the family that MAFA has given me (shoutout to all my adings; you know who you are uwu).
Going along with that, I think my favorite memories from being on MAFA Board had to come from the leadership retreats. They're smaller, more intimate conferences where I think people really get to bond and take notes from each other on what leadership styles work for them. It was exciting to meet other leaders who came from near and far who were very invested in the workshops and advice we had to offer. It's also really inspiring to hear about what has helped bring different orgs to success!
Oof okay. I guess the biggest thing that I learned from being on MAFA Board this year is that you always have to be on top of your sh-t. Preplanning logistical things is a must; however, it's important to stay calm when a wrench gets thrown in your plans or things don't always get done on time. Everything will always work out in the end, but the end product is really based on the work that you put into it. What I'm trying to say here is: don't procrastinate! Prioritization and time management is really key. Another thing that I learned is to be yourself! Conferences can be overwhelming and you're going to meet so many people, which can be really nerve wracking! But let your personality shine through in whatever you do, because that's how people are going to perceive you as a board member. Be yourself because you're beautiful too, bb.
Whew! What a year it has been. What I'm hoping that I've been able to leave you guys behind with are the tools for you to go out there and discover your identity and the role your culture plays in it, whether you're Filipinx-American or not. Staying true to our roots may seem daunting as first or second generation immigrants, but it may give us some insight into who we really are! I hope that after this term, I was able to help open the doors for you to explore your own cultural identities. And of course, find ways to take care of your own mental health as well. For future MAFA secretaries: Keep the dialogue alive! Whether it's through this blog or some other outlet, we should always start discussions and spread awareness about our important issues within our community. Stay woke y'all ✌
Whether you're brand new to MAFA or you've been a long time member, it's been a pleasure to serve you this year!
May kasamang pagmamahal,
Sarah ♥
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