February Volunteer of the Month: Akshadha Seshamani

When did you move to Issaquah Highlands and from where?
Since birth, Issaquah Highlands has been my home. This picturesque community, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, has and will always have a special place in my heart.

What do you like best about living in IH?
My favorite part about living in the Highlands is the environment – both the physical and community environments. Issaquah Highlands is a beautiful place. The lush nature immediately puts you at peace, and the big parks and hidden trails are always a pleasure to explore. Everyone in the Highlands is super friendly, and the relationships formed within the community are very deep and meaningful. Since Issaquah Highlands continues to grow, there are always new people to meet and new relationships form. The tight-knit relationships within each street or neighborhood are also heartwarming. Issaquah Highlands truly is a beautiful place, and above all, a beautiful community.

Tell us about your family.
My parents come from India. They have always impressed in [their children] the values of respect, humility, simple living, and caring for others. My brother, a junior in high school, and I share a passion for protecting the environment. My family is my rock. They have always supported me through all my endeavors. I know they will always be there for me.

Photos: (left) Akshadha with her family, (right) a photo of Akshadha. 

How did you become involved as a volunteer in IH?
During the pandemic, I realized the value of community and the people around me. I wanted to get out and do something meaningful instead of being stuck at home, so I applied for the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board. After completing the interview process, I was excited to join as a HY Board member. The HY Board opened the doors to many other opportunities. The Issaquah Highlands Eco-Market inspired my brother and me to create our social platform, iEco Buz, which spreads awareness about sustainability and promotes eco-friendly businesses.

Tell us about your experience as a volunteer on the HY Board.
I really enjoy being part of the HY Board! It’s fun to help the community. The HY Board has provided an environment where I can express my ideas and bring out the best in me. The members and advisors are incredibly kind, passionate, and supportive. The community they have created is truly astounding to be part of. Through the HY Board, I’ve been able to meet a lot of people, volunteer for a lot of events, learn new things, and help my community in various ways. It became a venue for me to express myself through writing. I am truly grateful for this experience and what I’ve learned throughout my journey with the HY Board.

What advice would you give to other teens and/or adults about volunteering in Issaquah Highlands?
Take action; it might be hard but do whatever you can. Instead of waiting for opportunities to come to you, actively seek them out. When you put your mind to it, there is nothing you can’t do. To serve the community is not a job, it’s a privilege. In the words of former President John F. Kennedy, Jr., “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”

Akshadha Seshamani is an eighth-grader, a member of the HY Board, and an Issaquah Highlands resident.