Seleni Spotlight: Ephar Anwar, Intern
July 2021 - Seleni was pleased to welcome Ephar Anwar as a summer intern in June. We are thrilled to have her on board!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in DC, however I am ethnically Uyghur-Turk from East Turkistan. I am a rising senior currently majoring in International Relations Global Business at the University of Southern California. I have a passion for fashion design and sewing, it brings color and excitement into my life. I have worked on designing an Uyghur fashion line, using a handmade traditional silk fabric called “Atlas” that is rarely used in the western fashion industry. I hope to soon launch the first Uyghur fashion line in the US, with an emphasis on ethical production and ethnic designs.
What excites you about being part of the Seleni family?
The idea of being able to empower individuals with the Seleni family by giving them the space to decompress, get support, and feel heard is rewarding. The Seleni Institute stands out to me because it prioritizes mental health in a particular way that provides flexibility with individualized treatment, and gives a support system for all individuals. It is exciting to work for the Seleni team, because with every person we empower, we actively give back to our communities.
How do you practice self-care?
I practice self care by dancing. Strangely enough, I am able to get a break from everything in the world. Putting my headphones in, and dancing in my room is liberating and exciting. Self care was not always a familiar concept. I never knew what self care actually meant until I took a class at my university's Occupational Therapy Department, “Caring For Yourself: Engaging in Healthy Habits and Routines.” I remember my professor, Kristy Payne, stressing the importance of personal boundaries because they place the guidelines in how we should be treated. Boundaries cultivate a space for one to recharge, and focus on things one actually wants to do. Dancing became my go-to when I needed a break from the world, and personal boundaries allowed me to give time for it. Self care is not discussed enough, and I believe it should be addressed in all settings including work, school, and family life.
What’s a quote that you carry with you to uplift yourself?
One of my favorite quotes is by George Saunders: “Why was she dancing? No reason. Just alive, I guess.” I like it because it is a reminder to be unapologetically yourself and enjoy life as it comes. We often stress about things in the moment and forget that all things pass. Everything is temporary which is why we should enjoy the moment. Smile, laugh, and just be you. Life’s far too short to live for anyone else!
