Wildomar Big Sister Honored, Little Sister Stands Proud

WILDOMAR, CA — When Kyla Vela of Wildomar was a college student, she took on a very important role in her community — acting as a Big Sister for a young child — and three years later, she’s being honored for work that she continues today.

Vela, 22, is one of six “2021 ‘Big’ of the Year” finalists named by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire.

Becoming a Big Sister has been a life-changing experience for Vela — and for the child she mentors.

Vela joined Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire and knew about the program but wasn’t well versed in what it had to offer.

Mind you, Vela, who is now married with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, has no children of her own. Her experience with kids was pretty much nil when she began inquiring about mentoring.

After much screening by the organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters matched Vela with 6-year-old Amayah. The little girl’s adoptive mother wanted her child to experience as many of life’s opportunities as possible, including having a Big Sister, Vela said.

“She is an awesome single mom,” Vela said. “She’s so supportive. The three of us discuss things like a family does. I do feel like Amayah’s Big Sister.”

That’s the goal of Big Brothers Big Sisters — to create deep connections between mentor and mentee. “Investing in the life of one child,” Vela continued.

As their three-year relationship continues to blossom, the two “sisters” have grown together in ways Vela never dreamed of.

Amayah is very energetic, Vela said. “Very lively. Her mind is always thinking. She has big plans and big dreams,” she added.

Amayah finds joy in the smallest details, something her mentor has learned to do, too. Vela is a self-described introvert, while Amayah has the gift of conversation with everyone she meets. “She will talk to anyone,” Vela said. “She has pushed me out of my comfort zone.”

The opportunity to become a Big Sister also broadened Vela’s knowledge about her community — and herself. She’s had to investigate child-appropriate activities offered in her city and surrounding areas — on a college student’s budget.

The pandemic shuttered some of those venues, and the shutdown taught Vela to be resourceful. The two sisters have taken virtual outings together to Disneyland and the zoo. They’ve colored and painted together virtually. And Amayah Facetimes with Vela when big life things happen, like when she loses a tooth.

“I genuinely enjoy being with her,” Vela said.

It wasn’t always easy. In the beginning, Amayah was a bit reluctant, and Vela said it was scary being responsible for someone else’s child.

Since then, her fears have been abated. Amayah was so excited to be the flower girl at Vela’s wedding (she thinks the groom is the best, Vela said).

“I’ve loved seeing her grow as a person,” Vela added. “It’s so rewarding to see a little person become confident.”

The joy of sisterhood is probably mutual. When the "Big" finalists were being selected, Amayah, now 9, campaigned for her big sis by creating a video montage of their three years together. The work of art helped seal the deal — and showed that their relationship is indeed special.

For those interested in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, Vela encourages people to look into it. She said program organizers go to great lengths to match mentors and mentees. Initially, she was required to commit to one year with Amayah, giving three hours of her time twice a month. For more information, visit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire.