My name is Sundari Hooks. I love to do arts and crafts because it helps me focus on one specific project and avoid distraction, which I am not so good at. I also love the creativity that comes with arts and crafts because I can accomplish anything in an art piece like painting or pottery.

My favorite book is the Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld because it reminds me no one needs to change to feel like they belong. This theme is important to learn early on because many can get conflicted by the stereotypes of beauty. My hero is Yara Shahidi because she has produced many films like Paint Me a Road Out of Here and Sitting in Bars with Cake, and graduated from Harvard University with a 4.0 GPA while acting in many shows. I aspire to accomplish as much as her one day. When I grow up, I want to be a lawyer because I love debating and fighting for others’ freedom.

A quote that really stands out to me is “Struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won. You earn it and win it in every generation” by Coretta Scott King. This quote inspires me because it proves we can always fight for more freedom in America.

BK2BAMA is an after-school program, during which young leaders learn about the modern Civil Rights Movement and role models from that time. During spring break, these eighth graders spend a week in Alabama and Georgia, to learn more about the movement. I joined BK2BAMA because I wanted to show respect to my Black ancestors that came before me and fought for me to be here. I am excited to go to Alabama and Georgia because there are a lot of historic monuments that will educate me on history’s truths. Furthermore, I can’t wait to tour Spelman College and Morehouse College. Spelman is a college that I want to someday apply to.