Discovering Cuba: A Journey of Growth and Understanding
Contributors
- Sagnik Das
- Sharmelle Das
As participants of the Inaugural J.U.S.T. (Journeys to Uncover Social Truth) Global Fellowship, we, Sagnik Das (14) and Sharmelle Das (16), recently had the opportunity to travel to Cuba and experience a world vastly different from our own. Traveling without our parents, we were both nervous but excited to learn and see things beyond our usual environment.
Our adventure in Cuba was everything we wanted it to be and more. From the hidden secrets we had unjustly been kept unaware of and the insightful people we met along the way to the beautifully prepared food and well-arranged housing, everything made our week spent in Cuba worth it. We began our journey with great apprehension, naively accepting of the narrative the mainstream media had fed us; we ended our trip as grateful explorers who had seen for ourselves the treasure concealed within a jungle of deceit.
One of the most impactful aspects of our journey was meeting Cuban locals. Their warmth and hospitality were unparalleled, and they generously shared their stories and culture with us. We also had the chance to taste the delicious local cuisine, which was a delightful surprise. Every meal was a feast, prepared with love and care.
Visiting various historic sites, museums, and meeting guest speakers gave us insights into Cuban art, culture, music, healthcare, religion, and the role of women in society. It offered a different perspective from what we learned in the USA, helping us appreciate and embrace Cuban culture more deeply.
Staying in well-arranged housing allowed us to see how people live day-to-day with limited resources. Despite these limitations, we witnessed a vibrant and resilient community, full of life and creativity. This experience taught us to appreciate what we have and to understand the value of resourcefulness and community spirit in the midst of challenging circumstances.
We hope others will take risks to uncover the world's truths for themselves. Our trip to Cuba has inspired us to continue exploring, learning, and growing. We encourage other young people to embrace opportunities for cultural exchange and to see our world's beauty and complexity.
Traveling to Cuba was a life-changing experience that we will carry with us forever. It has made us more open-minded, grateful, and eager to learn. We hope our story inspires others to embark on their journeys of discovery, curiosity, and understanding.
Sagnik Das
he/him
Hi! My name is Sagnik Das. I am 15 and a sophomore at Raleigh Charter High School. I have two loving parents and two sisters, Sharmelle and Satakshi, who are 16 and 11 years old, respectively. My hobbies include playing soccer, playing chess, and spending time with my family. My favorite subject in school is biology and I plan to become a doctor 10-15 years later. Additionally, I am passionate about serving my community and advocating for social justice, one of the main goals I want to accomplish throughout my life. To accomplish that goal, I traveled to Cuba and gained insights that will forever leave me more open-minded when approaching social justice advocacy. Lastly, I am a staunch believer in Hinduism and will spread my love for God through my service to the community.
Sharmelle Das
she/her
Hi! My name is Sharmelle Das, and I’m a rising junior in high school who’s all about diving into community service activities, singing, playing tennis, curling up with a good book, and crocheting cozy creations. Helping others and sparking positive change has always been close to my heart. Through attending the Summer Social Justice Academy by YMC last year, I developed a passion for Social Justice, and I am especially keen on becoming a young advocate for health equity. I love immersing myself in different cultures and discovering the unique lessons each one has to offer. Participating in the J.U.S.T. Global Fellowship at a young age was an amazing opportunity to be able to explore my passion for Social Justice and cultural immersion. I am driven to advocate for health equity and make a positive impact in the healthcare field. I’m thrilled by the opportunities to engage in advocacy through various activities and I am eager to make a difference!