Community Leaders: Natasha Duran
Introduction
I cannot believe that I have been under the mentorship of the Executive Director of Candlelighters of Brevard, Natasha Duran, for 5 years now. Even after so much time has passed, I still learn lessons about leadership and having a healthy lifestyle under the service of pediatric patients almost every month. This culminated into one story that perfectly characterizes everything she’s ever taught me: the “Starfish Story.” In this story, thousands of starfish wash up on the shore before a mother and daughter. The mother is distraught about what to do with so many starfish, but the girl throws them back into the ocean one by one. Despite her mother’s declaration that she couldn’t possibly save that many starfish, the girl proudly states, “It made a difference to that one.”
Body
Natasha first made a difference in my life when I was only 13 years old, making my time with Candlelighters one of the most long-lasting activities in my life. Although I recall being incredibly nervous at my first interview, imagining that such a professional organization would never hire someone so young, I am grateful she gave me a chance. I kept the company mailing list in order for two years, working at my task with valor and a super-organized Google Spreadsheet. However, the first time I was truly inspired was at my first “Superhero Suit-Up” party, where I watched the organization’s terminally ill children—armed with dashing capes and daring attitudes—walk down the red carpet with bright smiles, despite the grueling treatments they had been through.
As a mentor, Natasha has not only supplied me with the opportunity to help plan these events but also to work with me one-on-one to develop leadership skills. The primary topic discussed is “confident humility,” where one is confident in their abilities yet understands that these skills are the most purposeful in serving others. She also openly shares her struggles with lupus, reminding me that I must take care of myself to care for others. I am incredibly grateful for her taking the time to answer my particular inquiries about my role as a leader in my school and county communities, giving me a thoughtful response to every question.
Conclusion
Not only is Natasha Duran a well-deserved community leader because of the impact Candlelighters makes daily, but also because she makes a difference in each individual life she personally makes an effort to get to know. Having worked with her for so long, I know that she would choose the comfort, health, and safety of others over her own. To this, I must chuckle and tell her she needs to take some time for herself, as she often instructs me! However, this desire in her heart and soul is evident to anyone who meets her; I have never met someone who works this hard for the good of their community.
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