Women's History Month is celebrated annually in March to honor and recognize women's contributions, achievements, and struggles. GlobalMindED is proud to highlight the voices and work of influential women.
Camille Evangelista is a freshman at Grand Valley State University. She is part of the Club Gymnastics team, as well as the Filipinx American Student Association (FASA), Asian Student Union and REP4/GlobalMindED’s leaders who are opening doors of opportunity for all students to thrive. Students like Camille are using their voices through REP4 to improve their campus culture, co-create the solutions to a college experience that works for all and contribute the next generation of inclusivity for college students in the years to come. You will see many of them this June at GlobalMindED’s Ten Year Anniversary where you can meet them, listen to them, and learn from them.
From Battle Creek to Grand Valley State University to REP4 Global Leader: Meet Camille Evangelista, Dedicated to Equity and Inclusion
What is your personal and Professional Story?
Growing up in a predominantly white town, I was usually one of the only Asian kids in a classroom. My culture has always been a proud part of who I am, but that wasn't how other people have perceived it. From the food I brought for lunch, to the way I looked, it was clear that I was kind of different from my peers who had paler complexions and ate Lunchables every day. It wasn't until high school that I felt a sense of belonging - I was a part of and led Lakeview High School's multicultural club, and these differences I felt as a kid were embraced and appreciated within the environment I continued to thrive in. Growing up in Battle Creek meant finding ways to be inclusive - the opportunity of REP4 came along, and I've been participating in their programs since my junior year of high school.
What key moments in your life led you to where you are today?
I'm so fortunate to have received a quality education, with many opportunities to succeed. I've been a part of the multicultural club finding ways to showcase diversity at my high school. I was also a part of Burmese club, even though I'm Filipino myself. I first heard of REP4 through the Burma Center, and being able to visit Grand Valley State University through this program played a big part in my decision to attend GVSU for college. I'm also very active - I've done gymnastics for over 10 years and also played volleyball and threw for track and field in high school. I'd say that all of these experiences combined have shaped me into the person I am today.
Where does your passion to serve come from?
I grew up in a family full of medical professionals, and so naturally, I'm drawn to this career. I've always liked helping people. I used to pretend my stuffed animals were patients. In recent years, I've experienced injuries that needed to be treated surgically. I felt so much compassion from the nurses and doctors that I have a desire to give back and help others feel the same way I did.
Growing up as a minority in my community also drives my passion to help push for equity and inclusivity in the education system and in the workplace.
How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?
I am so grateful for this chance to be featured in a newsletter by GlobalMindED. This alone is a stepping stone to getting myself out there and building connections that could help me in future projects. I hope to be heard in my experiences and look forward to the opportunities that this feature will bring about.
