Ariela, 16 years old, CT

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Ariela has been on a journey through foster care, looking for a place where she truly belongs. She’s a sensitive and creative person who feels things deeply, and she expresses those feelings through her art. At her group home, people appreciate her kindness and her ability to make them feel understood. Ariela has discovered a love for cooking. She finds peace and happiness in the kitchen. She dreams of becoming a chef, spending hours watching cooking shows on YouTube to learn new techniques and discover different cuisines. When she gets the chance, she loves to try out new recipes, pouring her heart into each dish to show love and care for those around her. What makes Ariela unique is how she finds joy in everyday moments. She believes cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s about creating comfort and bringing people together. Her goal is to attend culinary school and eventually open her own restaurant, where everyone feels welcome, valued, and well-fed.

Ariela is a bright and creative young girl currently residing in a DCF-run shelter, navigating one of the most uncertain seasons of her young life, yet her spirit remains unbroken. Rather than being defined by her circumstances, Ariela has set her sights on something bigger: launching her own small business, creating and selling custom phone cases. She would love a small stock of phone cases to keep on her for any special orders she takes.