New places, new scenery, new routines, and new beginnings.  These are ideas that Ayomide Akintola (12) has become quite accustomed to.  

Lagos, Nigeria, a place of family, culture, and tradition.  The place of inspiration for many home-made dishes such as, Efo riro, a soup made primarily of spinach covered in seasonings that is served alongside peppers.  A place of fortune as well, as it is the place where Ayomide’s dad won the lottery, and a fortune that allowed her family to move to America.  

New York, the Bronx, a place of hope and ambition.  As a kid, memories of strolls through the nearby park with green scenery, and noises caused by the hustle and bustle of cars throughout a busy day.  After a couple of years, another move.

Commerce City, Colorado, “ a quiet area where everyone just kept to themselves.” says Ayomide (12).  The smell of lockers, the sound of orchestra instruments, the start of a new hobby, “ I spend a decent amount of my free time crocheting, it is relaxing to me,” says Ayomide (12). 

Aurora Colorado, a current home, a current community.  Feelings of hope and determination fill the air, “ I want to get out of my comfort zone and develop as a person,” says Ayomide (12).  

A recent memory was a summer trip to London, “ I have memories of the cool and rainy days, a fun trip to a theme park, and the smell of fresh food lining the streets.” says Ayomide (12).  

Throughout all the different places that Ayomide has lived, she has learned strong lessons, “ I have learned the importance of being close with family, and I have learned the value in being a good person.” says Ayomide (12).   

Memories, journeys, stories, and observations.  Fascination, adaptation,  and optimism, these are things Ayomide has grown quite accustomed to.