Meet Ariana | A Spark of Color in the Foster System
Ariana is 13 and electric. She paints how she feels, speaks her mind, and isn’t afraid to stand out. In a world that’s tried to quiet her, she’s found her voice in every brushstroke. She’s spent years in and out of placements, but what she really wants is one place to call home—where art is encouraged, emotions are heard, and love doesn’t come with conditions.
Ariana expresses what she can’t say with a brush and a canvas. Fierce, funny, and full of imagination—she just wants to be accepted as she is.
Background:
- Entered care at age 11 due to physical abuse and truancy concerns
- Two younger siblings in separate placements
- History of parent incarceration and housing instability
- Currently placed in a therapeutic foster home
Personality & Traits:
- Strong-willed and fiercely independent
- Very protective of her siblings
- Expressive and creative – uses journaling and music as outlets
- Trust issues with adults, but very loyal once trust is built
- Can be defiant when feeling misunderstood, but craves connection
Likes:
- Loves drawing, especially fashion and anime-style art
- Enjoys listening to music (pop and reggaeton)
- Excels in creative writing
- Dreams of becoming a designer or social worker
- Loves animals – volunteers at a local shelter
Dislikes:
- Being talked down to or ignored
- Authority figures who are overly strict or dismissive
- School environments with bullying or lack of cultural representation
- Being separated from siblings
Current Needs:
- Foster placement that values cultural identity and personal expression
- Trauma-informed therapy with a focus on empowerment
- Opportunities to build leadership and artistic skills
- Advocacy for sibling contact or potential reunification
- Female mentor or role model from a similar background