The youth-written stories in Represent give inspiration and information to teens in foster care while offering staff insight into those teens’ struggles.

$11,000 in prizes for 10 winners: Nominate a teen Congrats to Mia and Ms. Tonya, MercyFirst (Staff Shout-Out) Editor Virginia Vitzthum receives LGBTQ & Ally Award

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Trying to Make Up Lost Time When the writer’s mom is released from prison after nine years, it takes time for the two to adjust. Although the writer remains guarded, she is open to building a closer relationship. [more]	How I Stopped Fighting The author is abused and bullied, and becomes very angry. Fighting is a good release her -- until she faces arrest. Then she learns self-control. [more]
Writing Saved My Life Writing and working with an editor helped Zaniyah understand her own anger, forgive herself, and take control of her life. [more] [LESSON PLAN]	Saving Myself—and My Sister The author is sexually trafficked by her parents from ages 12 to 16. After she escapes, she focuses on healing and saving her little sister from the same fate. [more]
I Want an Equal Relationship Trina doesn't date yet, but looking at those who do, she wants more equality between boys and girls. Boys should not always pay for dates, she says. [more]	The Power of Forgiveness Because her mother is an alcoholic, Jzhamaine suffers abuse, neglect, and homelessness. After her mother gets sober and apologizes, Jzhamaine can forgive her. [more]
School Is My Life Raft The author is taken from her mom against her will. While in care, she keeps herself going by focusing on what she can control—doing well in school. [more] [LESSON PLAN]	A Role Model Confronted with racism and loneliness, Gabrielle drops out of college. Back home, she works hard to turn her life back around, inspiring her little sister and other Latinas in care. [more]
She Couldn’t Make Me Hate My Brother Hector's mother abuses him and his twin physically and emotionally. Hector finally escapes and then heals himself with writing and finding adults he can trust. [more]	LGBTQ Superhero Tamya is teased when it's revealed at school she has a crush on a girl. She comes out and stands up to the haters. [more]