#OurStoriesInVividColor

COVID-19 Story

Yes, I tested positive for COVID-19. I fell victim to this virus: a nasty, lingering virus that gave me the worst symptoms I’ve experienced to this day that I wouldn’t wish upon anyone. My story is to warn you that this is not the common cold or a regular flu. This virus is serious.

Tomiko

I am Tomiko Younge a dancer, creative, leader and activist. I have been dancing ever since the age of 6 with the non profit organization Culture Shock LA. This is where I have merged my passion for art and community building. I am the founder of my own club called “Girls Can Create” at Eagle rock high school which inspires young women on campus through female art, activism, entrepreneurship, etc… I am also the Vice President of the Black Student Union at Eagle Rock High School which provides a safe space for the Black community at Eagle rock high. Over quarantine I have also been learning new skills such as the guitar, piano and singing.

A Pause and Restart with COVID-19

Wellbeing: Many people were were and still are negatively impacted by COVID-19 when it comes to their wellbeing. Being social beings, having to stay at home and have little to no interaction to the outside world can really get to people. Personally, this situation infused with the fact that I was a college senior when COVID hit did not provide good grounds to support my wellness.

Education: Lockdown began in March in Chicago, a week before my campus was starting Spring Break. I had about 2.5 months left before I was officially done with my college undergrad journey. This lockdown caused a huge shift that not many of my campus peers saw coming. It was still all fun and games when everyone, including me, initially thought we’d just have a longer Spring Break and be back in school in a few weeks or so. We are completely wrong.