23 January 2025 2 minute read
From an early age, Asiana Belcher‘s mom instilled in her a profound belief: she was created to be a light in the world. This belief has become the foundation of everything she does — from the way she compliments her friends, to the sun she wears on her forehead as a daily symbol of her purpose, to the relentless pursuit of her goals.
However, Belcher's journey to fully embracing this light was not always an easy one. Her first year at Spelman College was marked by difficulties as she navigated the shift from a predominantly white high school to the dynamic yet sometimes overwhelming environment of an HBCU. The sudden loss of her grandfather, compounded by the pressure to find a place among accomplished peers, left her feeling isolated and unsure of her purpose.
“My first year was one of the hardest times in my life," Belcher recalls. She found herself bouncing from friend group to friend group, feeling disconnected and alone. The weight of loneliness eventually led to a depressive episode that left her questioning her place at Spelman.
It wasn’t until she returned home and had a heart-to-heart conversation with her mother that she found the clarity she needed. Once again, her mother reminded her of the light she carried within, and encouraged her to embrace it and share it with others.
With renewed determination, Belcher, C'2026, returned to Spelman in her sophomore year with a renewed sense of purpose, and a commitment to making a change. She pursued every opportunity she desired, and was rewarded with success. More importantly, she dedicated herself to uplifting those around her, striving to be the friend and mentor she wished she had during her first year.
Whether through offering a kind word to a freshman struggling to adjust or complimenting a stranger's outfit, Belcher has become a beacon of positivity on campus. “Kindness has the power to change not only your day but someone else’s,” she explains. She firmly believes that everyone needs someone to be a reminder of their work, especially in Spelman’s highly competitive environment.
A pivotal moment in her transformation came through her involvement in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated. The sisterhood provided unwavering support, helping Belcher rediscover her confidence and provide her with a sisterhood that felt like home.
“They poured into me in ways they’ll never understand," she says, crediting the sorority’s warmth and encouragement for helping her overcome moments of self-doubt.
One of Belcher's proudest moments was winning the Miss Phi Beta Sigma pageant. She never initially envisioned herself participating. Despite her reservations, she embraced the challenge as a chance to prove that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. Remaining authentic, she proudly showcased her natural locks and minimal make up, demonstrating that there is no one-size-fits-all image of success and beauty.
Beyond her personal achievements, Belcher, a political science major, is committed to leaving a legacy of warmth and encouragement at Spelman. Already an upperclassman, she envisions a campus culture where kindness is the norm and where students feel empowered to pursue their dreams without fear of judgment or comparison.
“We shouldn’t be comparing ourselves to each other," she says. “We all deserve everything and there’s enough space for all of us to shine.”
Wearing a sun symbol on her forehead serves as a constant reminder of her mission. No matter how challenging her day may be, it encourages her to stay true to her commitment to spreading light and positivity. As she continues her journey, Belcher hopes the energy she puts into the world will create a ripple effect, inspiring those around her to uplift others in the same way.
Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, self discovery and the power of kindness. Asiana Belcher is more than a student at Spelman College -- she is a guiding light, a force of nature and an unsung hero, whose presence continues to illuminate the lives of those around her.