Discovering Roots: Uncovering my Daughter's Indian Heritage

Yvonne Nieves Start Date: Aug 19, 2024 - End Date: Feb 18, 2025
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Volunteer Trip

My Travel Story

by: Yvonne Nieves Start Date: Aug 19, 2024 - End Date: Feb 18, 2025
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Volunteer Trip
Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters,

I am reaching out to you with a heartfelt request to support an incredibly important journey for my daughter Manjari and me. When my daughter was just a toddler, we took our first trip to India, the land of her father's heritage. Though she was too young to remember, that experience left a lasting impression on her. Now, as she approaches her 7th birthday, she has expressed a deep desire to return to India to explore her roots and connect with the culture that is part of who she is.

As a single mother who is not of Indian heritage, I know how vital it is to provide my daughter with an authentic and meaningful experience that will help her understand and appreciate where she comes from. Her father, who is of Indian origin, has not been a part of her life since he left us when she was just an infant. Because of this, it's up to me to ensure she feels connected to her heritage, even though it’s a world I’m still learning about myself.

This journey is not just about visiting India; it's about exploring the places significant to her family's history, learning and practicing Hindi, and embracing the vibrant culture of India. We plan to engage in acts of service to the poor, the downtrodden, and hungry animals—instilling values of compassion and empathy. We will immerse ourselves in the diverse traditions, taste the incredible food, and make spiritual, mental, and emotional connections that will enrich her growth and development.

I am committed to raising my daughter as a citizen of the world, helping her understand the beauty of where she comes from so that she can carry her rich cultural heritage with pride throughout her life. This journey is an essential step in that process, allowing her to create positive, lasting imprints of her culture in her psyche.

Unfortunately, as a single mother of limited means who has recently been laid off from work, I find myself in a challenging position. My greatest desire is to give my daughter this opportunity while she is still young and eager to learn about her heritage. I believe that this journey will have a profound impact on her identity and sense of self-worth as she grows up.

We are humbly asking for your support to make this journey a reality. Your contributions will go directly towards funding our travel, accommodations, and experiences throughout India, ensuring that my daughter can connect with her roots in a meaningful and lasting way. Every donation, no matter the size, will bring us one step closer to fulfilling this dream.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity and support. Together, we can help my daughter discover her roots and embrace the culture that is such an integral part of who she is.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Yvonne Nieves