Imani Sherrills
University of South Carolina BeaufortImani Ajyha Sherrills is a junior in the Human Services program at the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB). Imani is an outstanding student in the top 25% of her class and has been an active member of the Human Services Student Organization (HSSO) at USCB for two years; she is currently serving as Vice-President for the HSSO. She frequently volunteers with children through the Beaufort County Foster Parent Association and is currently completing an internship with the United Way of the Lowcountry and AmeriCorps. In this internship role, Imani is responsible for provision of literacy tutoring and classroom support for local elementary school children (grades K-3). Imani has consistently demonstrated a passion for helping others and plans to pursue a career in human services that will allow her to provide mental health and intervention services for military personnel and their families.
Personal Statement
According to Pachamama Alliance, Social Justice is defined as the equal access to wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society; to me social justice is just that; however, I take into consideration the factors that are at play which causes the INJUSTICE that we live in, see, and face daily. Social Justice is something everyone deserves, but everyone does not get simply because of equity, which is unfair and will never be equal. I would personally like to ensure the progression of individuals who are not allowed the same starting point as others, such as those given a hard time or denied the basics of life due to circumstances beyond their control. Growing up I’ve watched my people be constant victims of social injustice. We have been deprived and some denied equity and equality at a consistent and constant rate. This cycle will continue if not treated with GREAT passion and concern. When speaking on social justice I keep in mind and tell others, to really know and understand a struggle you’ve had to experience it or have been affected by it at least once in your lifetime.