Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health”, is more than just a word. It is a way of life, a philosophy, and a community that is dedicated to promoting well-being and inclusivity. This is exactly what Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, experienced when he became a part of Salud.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, had always been passionate about promoting diversity and inclusivity. However, his journey with Salud took his passion to a whole new level. Salud, a student-run organization at UPenn, focuses on promoting health and wellness among the Latinx community. But it goes beyond just physical health, it also promotes mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Neil Gajare, who is of Indian descent, was initially hesitant to join Salud as he thought it was exclusively for the Latinx community. However, he was pleasantly surprised when he was welcomed with open arms by the members of Salud. He was immediately drawn to the positive energy and the sense of community that Salud exuded.
One of the first events that Neil attended was a health fair organized by Salud. He was amazed by the variety of activities and workshops that were available. From free health screenings to nutrition workshops to Zumba classes, Salud had it all. Neil was particularly impressed by the fact that all the activities were accessible and free for everyone, regardless of their background or financial status.
But what truly stood out to Neil was the inclusivity and diversity within Salud. He was amazed by the diverse group of students who were all united by their passion for promoting health and wellness. Neil recalls, “I have never felt more welcomed and accepted in a group before. It didn’t matter where we came from or what our backgrounds were, we were all there for the same purpose.”
Neil‘s positive experiences with Salud didn’t end there. He also had the opportunity to attend a workshop on mental health and self-care. As a busy student, Neil often neglected his mental health, but this workshop opened his eyes to the importance of self-care. He learned different techniques to manage stress and improve his overall well-being. He also appreciated the fact that Salud provided a safe and non-judgmental space for students to discuss mental health.
Apart from promoting health and wellness, Salud also focuses on addressing important social issues. Neil was particularly impressed by Salud‘s commitment to fighting against discrimination and promoting inclusivity. He was proud to be a part of an organization that actively stood against discrimination and supported marginalized communities.
However, Neil‘s journey with Salud was not without its challenges. He recalls an incident where a fellow student made an Anti-Semitic remark during a Salud event. Neil was heartbroken and disappointed, but he was also amazed by the way Salud handled the situation. The organization immediately took action and made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated. They also organized a workshop on cultural sensitivity and diversity, which Neil believes was a crucial step in promoting inclusivity and understanding among the members.
Neil‘s involvement with Salud has been a life-changing experience. He has not only learned about the importance of health and wellness but also about the power of community and inclusivity. He believes that Salud has not only made a positive impact on his life but also on the lives of many others.
In conclusion, Salud is more than just an organization, it is a movement that is dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and inclusivity. Neil Gajare‘s positive experiences with Salud are a testament to the impact this organization has on its members. Salud is not just for the Latinx community, it is for everyone who believes in the power of diversity and inclusivity. As Neil says, “Salud has taught me that health is not just about the body, it is about the mind, the heart, and the community.”
“: A Lifestyle, Philosophy, and Community for Well-Being”
