🎥 to conclude this may
experiences, interests, next month's action items
👋🏽 the pleasure is all mine.
Thank you for visiting my newsletter.
If you are new - Hello there, it’s a pleasure to meet you! My name is Alysha Selvarajah and I am 17 years old.
As of now, I am working towards better understanding sustainability and psychology. On the side, I have been working as a Staff Writer for The Environmental Justice Coalition and building out a healthcare activism organization known as The Wellness Place.
exploring interests
Similar to last month, I found myself prioritizing my interests. The ability to let myself explore, whether it be reading a book on the Japanese concept, ikigai or attending a physics lecture, was freeing. It allowed me to be present in the moment.
This mindset is one that I am still attempting to input into my life. As school comes to an end, I want to challenge myself to explore as much as possible. So, though this section is comparatively shorter, I am still learning to hone this mindset. Instead, I’ll take this moment to challenge my future self - Post-summer Alysha, what were your thoughts on this?
☕️ personal pleasantries
And The Award For Best Writing Goes To…
A couple of months ago, I mentioned how I was planning to enter my school’s film contest. This month, I had to pleasure of attending the award ceremony where I would be able to see all the submissions. From watching a mini Inception-themed film to reuniting with my friends (I still attend my classes virtually!), this night is one that I will never forget. I genuinely cannot put into words how incredible it was to be sitting comfortably watching people’s films.
For one, I was able to present my own film - “the stages of a friendship”. Watching my own film, albeit finding some of the shots and phrases questionable (I look at this as a sign of improvement haha), I was proud. I was initially unsure if I would take up this opportunity 5 months prior. However, being able to showcase my own love for film was worth it. I’m so grateful to Alexandra, Xarnah, and the rest of the film club crew for encouraging me and providing me with such valuable feedback throughout the year. Without you all, I would not have been able to make this film. And thank you to everyone who awarded me with “Best Writing”.
13 Years
This month wouldn’t have been complete without celebrating my sister’s birthday. It was definitely a special one as she finally turned 13 (hit those teen numbers!!). From taking her out to eat to go on a downtown Toronto adventure, I truly hope she had a wonderful day.
Watching my sister turn 13 blew my mind. I remember when I turned 13 and she was just a sweet, little angel. I am so proud of her. It has and always will be an honour to be her sister. Seeing her grow up into this incredibly smart, talented individual warms my heart (she definitely takes after me haha). Still, I am so amazed to see how far she has come. I hope she always knows that I’ll be her #1 biggest fan!!
🧸 top picks
Most Played Songs 🎶
“Give Me a Kiss” by Lolo Zouaï - No words for this release. It’s just so perfect. Please have a listen if you have a chance.
“Moi” by Lolo Zouaï - This was the first song I ever listened to by Lolo. It is an absolute masterpiece. I am especially in awe of how she seamlessly transitions from English to French.
Film 🎬
This month, I had the pleasure of watching Netflix’s White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch. As someone who has recently taken an interest in fast fashion, learning about the behind-the-scenes business needed to run these stores was eye-opening. From this documentary, I was able to better understand how models are picked to head campaigns. In Abercrombie & Fitch’s case, the blatant discrimination and subsequent controversial diversity goals should provide the fashion industry with a blueprint of what needs to change in this constantly evolving industry
🧳 in the coming month
In June, I plan to work on:
Exercising: Now that most of my final school and work projects are wrapping up, I would like to focus more on my health. As my acne is often a result of what I eat, I think my diet needs a bit of a cleanse too!
Reading: Inspired by Jack Edwards, I would like to try and read as many books to match my phone’s screen time.
in conclusion
I would like to take the time to thank you for reading this month’s newsletter. I hope that the next month finds you well.
Please feel free to reach out and I’d love to chat over a cup of green tea!
It sounds like you enjoyed the experience of creating a film - way to go, Alysha!
Also the Netflix doc sounds interesting- thanks for the recommendation.
Proud of the film award and how well you spoke on stage!