by Safiyat Bayo

Having joined RBAC as a freshman, I am a former student of Rainier Beach High School and a proud alumna. Throughout my childhood, I also collaborated with classmates who attended the same school as I did. Although we were more concerned about Rainier Beach, we would wear our uniforms with pride and respect since we contributed to the public safety that is required in every area.

Participating in various activities, including our town halls, Back2School Bash, weekly Pearl Activations, and collaborating with other organizations that share our goal of making Rainier Beach a beautiful and safe place. Years later, we see the same people showing up to events that we are either facilitating or attending, ensuring we stay connected with others.

To me, what makes our neighborhood a beautiful, safe place is when several organizations that care about everyone’s safety, especially our young people, collaborate to host events, distribute resources, and support our young people who have become well-known community leaders and attend South End schools in Seattle. But, what holds greater significance is the adults who want to support the youth in reaching their highest potential, allowing for recognition and opportunities, not only during their teenage years but also into adulthood.

Here at RBAC, we call YATTAs, which is defined as “Young Adults Transitioning into Adulthood,” which is extremely important, coming from a neighborhood that experiences such a great deal of inadequacy in many aspects.

What makes Rainier Beach a beautiful, safe place is the constant support, diversity, and culture that all come together in a space where we feel loved, respected, and connected.   

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