Page 80 - Tennessee Teen Volunteer Judge's Book 2022

Name: Elena Lamica
Title: Miss Memphis Teen Volunteer
Age as of December 31st, 2022: 17 Years Old
Social Media: FB: 2022 Miss Memphis Teen Volunteer, Elena Lamica Instagram: memphisteenvolunteer Platform: Power of Inclusion: Building Best Buddies
I believe the best way to raise awareness for Best Buddies is through the next generation. If we instill the “Power of Inclusion” with our children at a young age, they will continue to share the importance of inclusion with others and we will see lives change. I know how special the connections of friendships can be by being part of Best Buddies and how they have helped me to become a better person. I have developed a plan for implementation of Best Buddies on the elementary school level and I have already made connections with administration to begin this plan next school year. I know that sharing my love of Best Buddies with the next generation will be the best way to share the "Power of Inclusion” and I look forward to sharing my plan with elementary schools across the state of Tennessee.
Talent: "Still Rolling Stones" / Vocal Performance
They selected 3 of the following topics and provide brief answers
1. What makes you special and unique? 2. What is the best advice you have ever received? 3. What can you not live without? 4. What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned? 5. Who is your most valued role model? 6. What has been your most unexpected moment? 7. What is your greatest accomplishment? 8. What is the best compliment you have ever received? 9. What is your secret wish or dream?
4.
The most valuable lesson I have learned over the past few years is that not everyone wants to see you succeed. There are always going to be people in your life who are going to try and bring you down, but you have to rise above them and prove them wrong.
7.
My greatest accomplishment is all of the work I have done with my platform of “Power of Inclusion: Building Best Buddies” as well as with all the friendships I have created through it. I will cherish these friendships always and I am proud of the difference I am making as I continue to share the importance of inclusion with our younger generation.
8.