People who know me today would think I’ve always been outgoing. I was quite the opposite. I was shy and reserved. I didn’t want to talk to anyone about anything. Even though I had two close friends in high school, it was hard for me to open up to even them. I hid behind a mask. It was the mask of comedy. When I didn’t want to open up to people, I reverted to the funny, goofy Kiara that many people loved. But it was far from my truth.

I was 12 years old when I entered the foster care system. I had an argument with my mom in a grocery store and said out loud, “I wish I didn’t have to stay with you!” Little did I know that same day me and my siblings would be placed in foster care. From physical abuse, alcohol addiction and substance abuse, to waking up to my mom telling us to packs our things because we were suddenly moving out of town—again—by the age of 12, I’d seen more than some people see in a lifetime. By the age of 15, unfortunately my brothers and I had bounced between multiple foster homes, which led to our separation at one point, causing us to lose touch. I was attending Ben Carson High School at the time, which meant I had to catch two Smart buses to school and back to. I was on my own. Independent. At 15.

That’s when I was introduced to You Are the Gift and Derschaun Sharpley.

Derschaun was the perfect example of “the light at the end of the tunnel.” Sharing her personal challenges and past obstacles allowed me to connect to her the most. I was motivated to keep going because I had someone like Derschaun to look up to and relate to—authentically and unapologetically. I felt like I could talk to her openly without being judged or condemned for what I had been through. She always stressed to us the importance of remaining real and authentic with mentees. She taught me that when you’re not authentic, youth can see right through you. Through Derschaun, never know who you’re helping by sharing your personal story of overcoming.

I started as a mentee. Today, I serve proudly as a mentor. From a new level of confidence and friendships, to independence and a greater grasp of basic everyday life skills, girls who attend the You Are the Gift camp get to experience a journey like no other.

Many times, Derschaun may have prayed, “God, I hope I changed one girl’s life. I hope I impacted one person. I hope I said something that resonated with that one girl.” I’m a witness. Her work resonates with the one girl. If it’s more than one, thank God! But she is definitely impacting lives—one girl at a time.

Derschaun, I appreciate you more than you may ever know. You have taught me a lot and you will forever be a part of my life. I’m thankful to be a part of You Are the Gift and I’m looking forward to changing lives with you as we move forward!

~ Kiara Marshall