Mendoza was not confident as a child. She struggled in school and didn't make friends easily. She was shy and quiet.

Mendoza said she was quiet and didn't speak up. She felt like there was something wrong with being quiet.

Mendoza studied hard, but she didn't do well in school. She was soft-spoken and didn't ask for help.

Mendoza wanted to study journalism, but she didn't get good grades. So, she applied to a community service course.

Mendoza hoped to get into the course, but she was stressed when she didn't hear back. She was worried she had no other options.

Mendoza said it was a sad time for her. She felt like she had nowhere to go.

Mendoza got an interview and was accepted into the course. She started at the school in 2020.

Mendoza said getting into the course changed her life. She didn't know what would happen, but it was a good start.

Mendoza said everyone learns at their own pace. She would tell her younger self to trust the process and not worry.

Mendoza learned about community service in school. She started volunteering as part of her studies.

Unlike in primary school, Mendoza enjoyed volunteering this time. She felt like she was making a difference.

Mendoza found friends at school who shared her interests. They volunteered together outside of school.

Mendoza and her friend chose a charity that helps women and children. They worked with kids from poor families.

Mendoza was nervous at first, but she connected with the kids. They were shy, but she helped them open up.

Mendoza broke the ice with the kids. She was able to earn their trust despite being shy herself.

Mendoza spent time with a reserved child. She helped him feel more comfortable and confident.

The child became more outgoing and participated in activities. Mendoza was happy to see the change.

Mendoza became a leader in the volunteer group. She helped kids with emotional issues.

Mendoza worked with the kids for years. She saw them grow and become more independent.

Mendoza grew as a person too. The kids taught her to speak up and be more confident.

Mendoza wanted a career in community service. She studied early childhood education after completing her course.

Mendoza is now studying psychology and community development. She is in her third year of study.

Mendoza volunteers to reduce stress. She finds it helpful to give back to the community.

Mendoza worked with a charity that uses horses for therapy. She helped kids with special needs.

Mendoza walked, bathed, and groomed horses. She later led therapy sessions and supported kids with disabilities.

Working with horses was calming for Mendoza. She found it therapeutic.

Horses can sense human emotions. Mendoza found it special to build relationships with them.

Mendoza remembered a child with cerebral palsy. The child was shy and unsure at first.

The child became stronger and more confident. Mendoza was happy to see the progress.

Mendoza went on mission trips to Cambodia. She taught English to school kids and befriended girls in a home.

Mendoza got a national award for her volunteer work. She completed over 300 hours of community service.

Mendoza is interning at a children's society. She hopes to work in community service after graduating.

Mendoza reflected on her school days. She felt like she didn't fit in and was shy.

Mendoza found her calling in community service. She met like-minded people and became more outgoing.

Mendoza was lucky to find her passion. She encourages others to try volunteering to find theirs.

Mendoza suggests that young people try volunteering. It can help them find their strengths and passions.

CNA Women is a section that informs and empowers women. If you have news or ideas, email us.