From Oakland to Peru: A Cinnamongirl Journey

Hello community and friends,

I'm absolutely thrilled to share an exciting update with you. Initially, my heart was set on an adventure to Brazil, a country renowned for its vibrant culture, lush jungles, and the opportunity to channel my inner Indiana Jones. It was a dream to explore the wild terrains of the Amazon and experience the sheer diversity of this beautiful land. However, due to certain unforeseen circumstances, Brazil has tightened its regulations on foreign travel, leading us to adjust our plans. But, as they say, every cloud has a silver lining, and ours is gleaming with promise! We are shifting our adventure to the equally fascinating and culturally rich land of Peru. This South American gem, known for its diverse Afro-Indigenous culture, mouthwatering ceviche, and breathtaking landscapes where the towering Andes meet the Peruvian Amazon, is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the bustling streets of Lima, Peru offers a infinite experiences that promise to captivate the senses and leave us with memories to cherish.

Over the past three years, I've found a profound love for nature. It's been my escape, my peace, and my greatest adventure. I've found peace in the rustle of the leaves and strength in the towering trees. Nature has been my sanctuary, a place where my mind finds tranquility and my soul, rejuvenation.

When I began to experience anxiety during my freshman year, it was a challenging period for me. But my mom and I didn't give up. We explored different ways to manage it and found the answer in nature. We discovered that I was my happiest and most relaxed self when I was outdoors, breathing in the fresh air, and surrounded by the calm and beauty of the natural world. We made it a point to integrate outdoor activities like hiking and camping into my routine, which has been instrumental in keeping my mental health in check.

Now, the exciting part is that I'll be taking my love for nature a step further. I'll be venturing into the heart of the Amazon rainforest during our upcoming trip to Peru! I can hardly contain my excitement at the thought of being in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, experiencing the sheer scale and beauty of the Amazon firsthand.

But this trip is not just about nature. It's about sisterhood. I'll be embarking on this journey with the Cinnamongirl crew, a group of amazing youwomen who share my love for adventure. We'll be immersing ourselves in the vibrant Peruvian culture, creating shared experiences that will strengthen our bonds and leave us with unforgettable memories. It's more than just exploring a new place together; it's about growing together, learning from each other, and creating a sisterhood that's rooted in shared experiences and mutual respect.

I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity, and I owe a big part of that to you, my wonderful community. I have until this summer to raise $5,700 for this journey, and any contribution you can make to support me would mean the world. I firmly believe that together, we can make a difference, and I am excited to share this journey with you.

With gratitude,

Taylor Sky C.