A Douglas teen was one of five young people in the nation to be selected to participate in a panel focusing on childhood obesity.
 Shaynna Bernal, 17, will offer her insights to a national panel on childhood obesity in September. She is one of five young people chosen from across the country to participate. |
During her three days in Washington, Bernal will offer her insights on this growing national problem.
“Coming from the border, I’ve seen first hand what poverty can do to families,” she said. “Often poor families will resort to buying inexpensive but unhealthy foods, which in the long run sets the stage for unhealthy eating habits.”
Bernal said one of her biggest interests is to help young people prevent destructive behavior and to create a youth center, where young people can express their creativity.
“Childhood obesity can lead to destructive behavior stemming from depression,” she said. “But with the right environment for young people, some of that destructive behavior can be changed to something positive.”
Bernal was selected from a group of Douglas youth that belong to the Spirit of the Sun, a local youth group.
“She(Bernal)possesses leadership and public speaking skills, which allow her to articulate her insights very effectively,” said Del Cabarga, the Spirit of the Sun coordinator.
More importantly, though, is Bernal’s background and knowledge about young people and border issues that will greatly inform the panel in Washington, Cabarga said.
Bernal plans to attend the University of Arizona, where she will pursue an interdisciplinary degree in fine arts, communications and psychology.
Her interests include dancing, writing, school sponsored team sports, donating to blood drives and sharing her perspectives at community meetings.
“No matter what, I would like to stay involved with youth development programs,” she said.
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