At just 15 years old, Solyana Adane is already a young leader with a clear sense of purpose – shaped by the people around her and the community she proudly serves.
From an early age, Solyana was inspired by role models in her life, including her mentor (and United Way of Southeast Minnesota staff member) Zeni Aly. Even before Zeni encouraged Solyana to pursue a Varsity Letter in Community Service, Solyana had already begun carving her path.
As a member of the Ethiopian Community of Rochester, MN (ECRM) youth group, she played a key role in ECRM’s annual Ethiopian New Year celebration, helping to organize and bring to life cultural elements that make the event special. She was also involved in organizing and performing in Rochester Public School’s culture night events.
“It makes me feel proud to show my culture to the community,” Solyana shared.
Volunteering quickly became a meaningful way for her to connect with both her roots and the wider world. But balancing service work with the demands of school and life hasn’t always been easy. Earning the Varsity Letter in Community Service requires at least 100 hours of volunteering between March and the following February – a significant commitment.
“It did get busy at times,” Solyana admitted. Much of her time last year was spent at Mayo Clinic through the In-Patient Care program. “I helped patients with small tasks like bringing them comfort care items like blankets or just being there to be a positive presence. I also helped staff by assisting them with tasks around the unit.”
Through it all, she accomplished more than earning United Way’s Varsity Letter in Community Service. Solyana also developed life skills that continue to shape her personal growth.
“I learned how to manage my time better over time,” she said. “I did most of my volunteer work over the summer or school breaks or weekends. But also, I learned how to take a step back and say no when things became overwhelming.”
Her time at Mayo Clinic also deepened her empathy and awareness of others. “It's taught me to be patient and compassionate towards others, because you never really know what people are going through,” she said. “It taught me how to communicate professionally and stay calm in busy environments. But most importantly, I saw how small acts of kindness can really be the highlight of someone's day.”
Learning to value small but meaningful action has created a lasting impression for Solyana.
“[Volunteering] was really meaningful. Just talking to patients and hearing about their life or their day was something I really enjoyed,” she said. “It has reminded me to value the small things in life. When you're volunteering, like at Mayo Clinic, it's the small things that you do that really matter to people. So it really reminds me to live a grounded life.”
Solyana’s passion and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed. She is also a recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national recognition that honors individuals who go above and beyond in volunteer service to others.
“Solyana leads with heart, culture, and commitment,” said Zeni. “Whether she’s mentoring young students, performing on stage, or organizing community events, she brings warmth, purpose, and pride to everything she does. She is the kind of young leader who inspires others simply by showing up and giving her best.”
Reflecting on her journey, Solyana is clear about the lasting impact of her service: “Overall, my time volunteering has shaped me into the person I want to become.”