Star Power: Justyn Boumah

Meet Service Star Justyn Boumah, 10. He started the nonprofit group Heroes and Hearts, in Las Vegas, Nevada. TFK reader Anirudh Rao spoke with Justyn about his efforts.

Tell us about the philanthropy work you do.

I help people in need around the world. My activities include delivering care packages called “blessing bags” and building libraries for kids.

If you could put a secret superpower inside each blessing bag, what would it be?

I’d pick kindness. Kindness spreads like fire. It starts as a spark but becomes bigger when we share.

What does kindness mean to you?

To me, kindness means doing something nice without being forced to. At a soccer game, someone gave me their marker when mine stopped working. That small gesture reminded me how powerful simple acts can be.

You’ve helped people in other countries. Has doing this work changed the way you see the world?

I used to think everyone had the same resources as we do in America. But in Ghana and Gabon, in Africa, I saw kids without libraries or safe roads. It opened my eyes to how much help some communities really need.

What’s one small thing a student could do to make someone smile without needing money or help from a grown-up?

Write a kind note. I once wrote a note to my mom. She keeps it close whenever she feels discouraged.

Who is your role model?

My dad. He is brave, strong, and someone I really look up to.

Do you want to keep doing this when you grow up?

I want to keep helping others as I grow up. I’ve been spreading kindness since age 2 and never plan to stop.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.