Seleni Spotlight: Lalaina Auriel Ny Andriantsoa, Spring Intern

March 2024 - We are thrilled to welcome Lalaina Auriel Ny Andriantsoa as our spring intern through the Libra Group Internship Program. We sat down with Lalaina for a Q&A.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, Lalaina!

I'm from Madagascar, but I'm pursuing my bachelor's degree in Rwanda, majoring in International Business and Trade. I'm currently in my final year and I cannot wait to graduate! 

I would say that I’m a creative, ambitious, and hard-working person who is always finding new pathways to open.

I’m also someone who loves challenges. While I can get stressed easily and frequently, I've learned a lot from the obstacles I've overcome, and those experiences have helped me evolve both personally and professionally. I guess you could say that’s why I like being constantly challenged.

Growing up, I fell in love with basketball, which has changed the course of my life in so many ways. I believe that sport is more than just a physical activity; in fact, it can be used to positively impact mental health and shape one's mindset and personality. That’s why my mission is to leverage the power of sports to create a positive impact around me and demonstrate how sports can change one's life, just as it did mine.

What excites you most about being part of the Seleni family?

When I first learned during my internship interview that I might be placed with the Seleni Institute, I was super excited. Mental health holds great importance to me, and gaining experience with an organization that positively impacts many lives like Seleni truly excited me. I was especially thrilled that I would also play a role in changing people's lives through their work. Being at Seleni means being part of a compassionate, supportive, and understanding family. I will forever be thankful for this opportunity and for joining such a fantastic team.

How do you practice self-care?

Basketball is my therapy. Whenever I have hard times, miss home, or have a lot in mind, the court is my go-to place. I feel so free and at peace when I play (but not every time; it can also stress me, especially when I lose). I also find myself journaling a lot to clear my mind. I’m a big overthinker, so that method has been very helpful. 

What do you like to do in your free time?

During my free time, I love to spend time with my family and friends, and I enjoy cooking and dancing. Additionally, I love traveling, discovering new places, and capturing moments through pictures. You'll likely find me doing one of these activities when I'm not around the court or watching games.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

I've received a lot of good advice, but I frequently remind myself of this one, because many times I still struggle to appreciate my own effort and tend to put a lot of pressure on myself:

"You become what you think and say. Therefore, be mindful of how you train your mind and the words you speak to yourself. It shapes your reality."

What’s a quote that you carry with you to uplift yourself?

I have this quote painted on the wall of my room back home, and it has become my life motto ever since: “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars.” - Norman Vincent Peale