When Robyn launched the 100 New Bigs Challenge, Elena didn’t hesitate. She was one of the very first people to sign up, not because she wanted recognition, but because she believed in the power of showing up when it matters most.
For Elena, becoming a Big felt personal.
She believes deeply in the impact of consistent presence and credits the supportive adults in her own life with helping her feel seen, encouraged, and confident. Mentorship, to her, isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening, building trust, and letting a young person know they’re not alone.
“Being a Big felt like a meaningful way to show up consistently for a young person,” Elena shared. “Just by being myself and genuinely caring.”
Elena currently lives in St. Petersburg and works in the health and wellness space as a coach and instructor, supporting women as they build strength, confidence, and self-trust. Those same values naturally carry into her role as a mentor.
What makes her story even more meaningful is that this isn’t her first time as a Big. Over a decade ago, while attending the University of Vermont, Elena served as a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters. That experience stayed with her and ultimately brought her back.
“Returning to BBBS at this stage of my life feels incredibly full circle,” she says.
Elena’s early commitment to Robyn’s 100 New Bigs Challenge is a powerful reminder that mentorship starts with a simple yes. One decision. One step forward. One life-changing connection.
There is still time to join Elena and be part of this challenge before the end of the year. If you’ve been thinking about becoming a Big, now is the moment to step up, show up, and make a lasting difference.
Sign up today and help us reach 100 new Bigs before year end.
