Where is She Now: Izzi Rojas Tiamalia 2010
Camp taught me how to love myself. An invaluable lesson.
Came to Nyoda from: Glen Ridge, NJ
Currently from: California. I am a freelance actor, model and most recently, filmmaker. I spend my days auditioning or on set!
Memory of first summer at camp: I remember I was only signed up for one week but I wanted to stay the whole session. I called my Mom and when she accepted my plea, my friend Emma Mauser ran around during evening activity screaming about how I was staying, we were so happy. Even some campers that didn’t already know me celebrated with us. I’ll never forget the love I felt.
Returned because of: My first year, I felt so at home and accepted. Something I hadn’t felt anywhere else in my life yet, so, for the next summer I signed up for six weeks.
Favorite camp memory or things in life that bring out your Nyoda memories: Camp fires and certain musicals. Also going canoeing down the Delaware River, hiking, rappelling, and feeds upstairs with the counselors (just to name a few) were always unique to me because I think about them often and the friendships that were made (even though I may not keep in touch now). I was fortunate enough that after camp one year I was able to go hiking with the Curley’s to Mount Washington and beyond. We had so much fun. That trip created an even more lasting memory of Nyoda for me.
Summers at Camp: In total, ten beautiful summers in Oak Ridge. I spent eight years as a camper then only two as a counselor.
What smell or sound or taste most reminds you of Nyoda: Ah if I ever hear the clinking of people dinning, the DR floods into my mind! Bug spray immediately takes me back to the runway or in front of the bungs before evening activity. Also, the smell of ferns in the sun could never keep my memories away from the archery field.
Nyoda traditions that you keep alive daily: People love to make fun of me, but if they are ever lucky enough to have a bonfire with a Nyoda camper (me) I ALWAYS sing “Burn Fire Burn.” With every dance move of course. I also have moved a total of eight times since receiving my 7th archery test award but I display it wherever I live very proudly.
Wo-He-Lo related goal: In reference to health, I am always looking to deepen my spirituality in order to maintain a positive outlook in this life. That of course, lends itself to productive and prosperous work. In that corner, I look forward to creating more inclusive and genuine LGBTQIA+ films/content with the people I love!
Long-term impact of my time at Nyoda: Camp taught me how to love myself. An invaluable lesson. When I first starting going to camp, I found I would anticipate Honor Girl every Sunday much more than I should have. I desperately wanted to receive external validation that I was “good.” As I grew older though and came back year after year, camp taught me I was good enough without it always needing to be celebrated. A smile you bring to a friends face, a song you remember all the words to or a hug you give is proof enough that you should be proud of who you are. Thank you for that, Nyoda.
Keeping in Touch with Nyoda friends: Through social media mainly. Even if it’s not always a long sentimental conversation, I heart sent or a liked photo reminds me of the beautiful Nyoda friends I will always have.
