Yajun He attended the BCNC Youth Program ChiSL (Chinese Immigrant Student Leadership Program) when she immigrated to the U.S. 7 years ago at 19 years old from China. When she first arrived at 19, she re-attended high school for 4 years.

“I’m so happy I went back to high school even though a lot of people advised against that. I followed my heart because I want to take time to understand the city and history of Boston as well as American culture,” shared Yajun, “BCNC actually taught me a lot and which helped me adjust to my new life in Boston. Being in BCNC’s Youth Program gave me a lot of opportunities to connect with mentors. It felt like a second family.” Yajun said.

While she was attending MassArt, Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Yajun found a part-time job as an art teacher teaching children. That was when she discovered she loves teaching, especially to children. So after graduating, she opened an art studio called TONGWOOD to host art classes and workshops for families and children.

“Now that I opened my own studio and reconnected with BCNC, I want to give back to the agency and the community through my art and volunteering my time,” shared Yajun. TONGWOOD organized a exhibit by a group of Asian artists called “A Love Letter to Boston: An Interactive Mail Art Exhibition. ” Centered around the theme of ‘Love Letters to Boston,’ the exhibit aimed to convey the warmth and beauty found in the moments of urban living, expressing deep affection and well-wishes for the city. All proceeds from the exhibition are donated to BCNC.