During a recent government meeting, a poignant moment unfolded as Zayadel, a junior at West High School, presented a video message in which she discussed her award-winning artwork. Unable to attend in person due to her International Baccalaureate math final, Zayadel expressed her gratitude for the recognition and the purchase of her piece.

Her artwork, inspired by her grandfather, whom she affectionately refers to as \"Lolo,\" reflects the complexities of aging. Zayadel shared a touching anecdote from her grandfather's 93rd birthday, where he remarked, in Tagalog, about the challenges of life and survival. This personal connection fueled her creative process, leading her to depict the struggles and wisdom that come with age.

In her piece, she emphasized the deep lines etched into her grandfather's face, symbolizing the hardships he faced, including living through World War II and immigrating to a new country. The intense brushstrokes in the background represent the fading presence of older individuals in their own lives, contrasting the celebratory nature of birthdays for younger generations with the painful reminders of loss that can accompany them for the elderly.

Zayadel's reflections highlight not only her artistic journey but also the broader themes of grief, acceptance, and the realities of aging, showcasing how personal experiences can profoundly influence creative expression.