Placed by: World Link
Placed In: Wellman, Iowa
Host Family: The Martinson Family
Attends: Mid-Prairie High School
FLEX April Student of the Month Faziia Kasymova from Kyrgyzstan made it her exchange year mission to share her unique culture, “A beautiful country, that I am telling absolutely everyone about!” Since arriving, she has delivered an impressive 21 cultural presentations in her host community of Wellman, Iowa.
Beyond her cultural contributions, Faziia has been an avid volunteer, committing 137 hours to various causes. Faziia’s volunteering started at the snack table for her host school’s blood drive. Her many shifts at charitable concession stands during Iowa Hawkeye games sparked her love for American football. Faziia’s great respect for her elders encouraged her to volunteer at a local nursing home. Other volunteer contributions have included aiding community events, joining the 'Spread the Love' program by handing out small gifts, and selling chocolate-covered strawberries to support children with cancer through Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). Her local coordinator expressed, “Faziia is a breath of fresh air… She has done a great job on program and has made a positive impact on her host community!”
Faziia has enthusiastically participated in many school activities, all while maintaining A’s and earning a “gold certificate” for her academic excellence. She joined the volleyball and wrestling teams, and her speech in “Individual Storying Telling” won a spot at the Iowa state competition. Her participation in the Law Club has given her valuable insights into her intended career field. In addition, Faziia has performed in choir and musical performances.
Faziia cherishes spending time with her host mom and bonding over shared interests, and she is grateful for her host mom’s unflagging support. Her host mom remarked, “Faziia has been a real joy to have for the past seven months…She is willing to go anywhere and do anything…I have learned so much about Kyrgyzstan, her food, and her culture. We have tried new recipes, and I don’t even like to cook!”.
