Big Questions and Bright Creations: Park Events Inspire Self-Discovery

Hosted by Manoritha Dasari, Ananya Mittal, and Joshitha Madduri

Representing Paradise Valley High School, SkillsUSA Chapter

As a father and worker who thoroughly enjoys watching the next generation grow into thoughtful, and creative individuals, I was very touched when I attended two youth-led events that were held at our local neighborhood park earlier this year. These events, which were organized by Ananya Mittal, Manoritha Dasari, and Joshitha Madduri from Paradise Valley High School’s SkillsUSA chapter, gave our community's children the opportunity to connect, reflect, and express themselves through hands-on activities with arts and crafts that blended fun with meaningful learning.

The first event I attended was held on January 31, 2025, where the students led a collaborative decoration project that invited children to contribute and add to a large community banner. Each child was given an opportunity to create their own section of the banner by responding to simple but thoughtful questions about America, such as “What do the colors and symbols on the American flag mean?” or “What do you like most about your country?” I found that this activity sparked some deep conversations about patriotism and civic understanding in a nice, age-appropriate way, all while giving each child a chance to exercise their cognitive skills and add their personality to a collective piece of art. By the end of the day, the banner was full of color, character, creativity, and joy, which was made to be proudly displayed in the park for all to see.

The second one I experience was held on March 28, 2025, where the group hosted another powerful event centered around scrap booking while allowing for self-expression and a showcase of identity. However this time, the question being asked to the children was simple yet personal: “What makes you happy?” The hosts provided supplies which included a diverse range of images, stickers, letters, markers, glitter, and magazine cutouts from which the kids built pages to show their answers, some depicting their favorite colors, animals, foods, snacks, or dreams for their future selves. It was a truly beautiful way to get them thinking about their own identities and what really brings them joy. For many of the kids, it was their first time doing any sort of reflective art project, and you could see the happiness in their faces as they shared their pages with their parents and friends.

Both events stood out to me, not only because they were fun, but because they were thoughtful and meaningful. These weren’t just ways to pass time, but rather carefully designed to help kids reflect, grow, and connect with others in their community. I was especially impressed by how the students balanced creativity with purpose. From the questions they asked the kids to the way they encouraged each child, every detail felt intentional. These activities weren’t random, but a part of something bigger: helping children begin to understand themselves and the world around them. The students hosting the events were kind, attentive, and truly invested in making a difference in their community. The space they created was warm and welcoming, and it was clear the kids felt safe to express themselves. Their ability to lead with both empathy and structure created an environment where learning felt joyful and natural. I left feeling inspired, knowing that young leaders like Ananya, Manoritha, and Joshitha are already making a helpful impact in our community.

In a time where it's easy to feel disconnected, these small community moments matter. It reminded me and many others that helping children feel seen, heard, and proud of who they are can start with just a question, a conversation, or a table full of markers.