Shaping Tomorrow:
Selina Speller
FEA
TURE
At just 10 years old, Selina Speller has already begun to leave her indelible mark on the world. Born on July 13, 2014, in the sun-kissed town of Ormond Beach, Florida, Selina’s story is a testament to resilience, community, and faith. As the middle child in a close-knit family, with two brothers and a strong connection to both her Puerto Rican mother and African American father, Selina was raised in a household rich with culture and love.
Her childhood was shaped by vibrant experiences that blended the diverse rhythms of her heritage. The dance studio, Royal Pointe Dance Academy, became one of her earliest stages for self-expression. "I loved dancing to salsa, merengue, and bachata," Selina recalls. "It wasn’t just about dancing, it was about feeling connected to my roots." Through her mother’s Latin dance classes, Selina forged a lifelong friendship with Cassidy, her best friend since the age of two, a bond that would later inspire shared dreams and future ambitions.
Selina’s heart has always been anchored in her faith. Growing up attending Our Lady of Lourdes in Daytona Beach, she was not only baptized there but also became an altar server and completed her first communion. "God’s plan is worth the wait," Selina reflects on her favorite Bible verse, reminding herself that through life's challenges, her faith continues to guide her. Her strong spiritual foundation laid the groundwork for her many community activities, from volunteering at her church to helping feed the homeless and tutor students through her mother’s work.
Family has always been central to Selina’s journey. She cherishes the wisdom imparted by her grandparents, who have remained an active and guiding presence in her life. As a big cousin to her aunt and uncle’s children, Selina embraced the role of a helper and mentor, bonding with her cousins as if they were her siblings. "They taught me so much about life," she says, reflecting on her supportive family circle, which continues to surround her with love.
But it wasn’t always easy. At the age of 8, Selina faced the challenge of leaving her Florida home to move to the bustling city of Chevy Chase, Maryland. Leaving behind the only life she knew, including her family, friends, and the familiar shores of Ormond Beach, was a significant hurdle. "It was hard, but it taught me that community can be built anywhere," she says. This move, while tough, led her to discover a new world where she grew deeper into her identity as an Afrolatina and found strength in the diversity and leadership of the Black community in the D(M)V.
My faith and daily relationship I build with God, guides everything I do.
As Selina settled into her new home, her passions quickly blossomed. She joined the Crimson Heat All-Star cheerleading team, where she excelled, becoming a Level 2 cheerleader. Her talents didn’t stop there—Selina’s entrepreneurial spirit began to take shape as she envisioned a future in the personal care industry. Inspired by her love for beauty and self-care, she dreams of opening a business with Cassidy, offering a variety of services such as nail, eyelash, and skin care treatments. "I want to help people feel good about themselves," Selina says. "Beauty is more than just skin deep; it’s about confidence and self-love."
In school, Selina is no less impressive. A gifted and talented student, she’s an active participant in the Chevy Chase News Network, a leadership role where she helps broadcast the school’s news every morning. Her commitment to excellence and service is reflected in her involvement in both her church’s ministries and her volunteer work, from tutoring to supporting community celebrations like MLK Jr. Day and Juneteenth.
Selina’s aspirations extend beyond her career. She is driven by a deep desire to give back to her community, particularly through mentoring and supporting younger generations. "I want to be a cheer coach one day, helping others discover their passion just like I did," she shares. With a focus on entrepreneurship, Selina is determined to give back while simultaneously building a business that provides meaningful services to her community.
Her journey thus far has been one of growth and empowerment. From the bright beaches of Ormond Beach to the bustling streets of Chevy Chase, Selina has embraced every chapter of her life with grace, resilience, and faith. As she moves forward, she remains grounded in the belief that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," a guiding mantra that propels her forward.
And in her quiet moments, when she isn’t cheerleading, volunteering, or planning her next entrepreneurial move, Selina has a fun secret: she still loves playing with Barbies. "I keep them hidden in a chest in my room," she admits with a smile, reminding us that, no matter how ambitious she becomes, there’s always room for a little joy and whimsy in the life of a young girl with dreams as big as hers.
Selina Speller’s journey is just beginning, but already, she is shaping the world around her, one small but impactful step at a time. Her story is a powerful reminder that with faith, perseverance, and a sense of community, anything is possible.
1808 W International Speedway Blvd #301
Daytona Beach, FL 32119
Tel: 386-243-5532
© 2023 by Kenneth Grant Inzpirations