Yaneli Vargas, 9th, enjoys making music, writing songs, drawing, painting, skating, and fashion. She’s a very sweet, caring, and beautiful person.

“I’m a very artistic and passionate person who is always there for others around me,” Yaneli said.

Helping others is Yaneli’s best strength.

“I understand what it’s like to feel alone and I would never want anyone else to feel that way,” Yaneli said.

A sport she would like to play again would be soccer.

“I kind of miss it because I used to play with my cousins when I was younger,” Yaneli said. “That was when my family was very close.”

Out of all her four siblings, Yaneli gets along best with her older brother Armando.

“He’s always been there for me ever since I was little, everytime my dad would leave, or make me feel bad, Armando would always be there to pick up the pieces,” Yaneli said.

Yaneli is different from her family.

“I lean more towards music, art, and I’m more carefree, open minded, understanding, not so serious, accepting, and a loving person,” Yaneli said. “My family is the complete opposite. They’re very hurtful, toxic, manipulating, and strict on business.”

Ciara Mejia Sorto became friends with Yaneli Vagas in elementary school second grade.
“I would describe Yaneli as a very strong beautiful girl,” Ciara said. “She’s a very loving person, funny, and always helps you when you need something, even if she isn’t at her best.“

Ciara’s favorite memory with Yaneli is when they went to McDonald’s and then to her family’s restaurant, Vargas Fruteria, which was across the street.

“We crossed and almost got run over,” Caira said. “It was such a fun day because we were laughing almost the whole time.”

Profile written by Serena Praphan