My name is Aysha Shaheed, and I am a second-year student-athlete on the Cal Track and Field team. Black History Month reminds me that simply being melanated makes me beautiful. It entails recognizing and paying tribute to the legacy that past leaders have left for succeeding generations. It entails helping Black communities progress, despite the persistent racial injustices that exist all over the world. It entails furthering my education, acknowledging the unique contributions made by these Black leaders and pioneers, and constantly reminding myself that Black history is a year-round celebration rather than something that can be limited to a single month. Black History Month reminds me of how strong and resilient we are; it reminds me that my ancestors, grandparents, and parents made such significant sacrifices and accomplishments to put me in the position I am in today. I am reminded that being a young, intelligent, and talented Black woman is a blessing that no one can take from me. I am reminded that I belong. It means to be proud of our creativity, deep roots, and rich culture. I feel empowered by the struggle with limitless opportunities resulting from a strong foundation. I get to celebrate others and feel celebrated too. To me, being Black means being part of something larger than myself and representing not only myself but others. It brings me joy knowing that I am a role model to young Black girls and boys who have goals they want to accomplish. We are exceptionally diverse, yet society labels us the moment we are born Black. The African American community is all connected in that way, but that connection allows us to have an awareness of a broader Black community, culture, and value system. It entails accepting those ideals, as well as giving back to and advancing the community and culture.
 
As I draw inspiration from Black History Month this year, I am excited about pursuing my degree in Social Welfare. I am also looking forward to this upcoming track season for me and the rest of my team. This should be a big year for me! I am very confident that I will make it to the NCAA meet in my individual events, which is my short-term goal for now, but eventually, within the next couple of years, I am aiming to make the USA track and field team. It has always been a dream of mine to compete in the Olympics one day and hopefully even win a gold medal. I feel that I am getting closer and closer to my dream. I have been running since I was about 7 years old – almost 13 years of running and my hard work and dedication to the sport are beginning to pay off. I am extremely blessed to have such supportive parents and coaches who want to help me make my dream come true. My parents are my inspiration; they are both very important to me and my journey of growing up Black. They are role models for my siblings and me and they always want the best for us. They have helped put us on the path to success and have always supported us no matter what. My parents have sacrificed so much for my siblings and me to be who we are and where we are in life. I would not be the person I am today — a strong, caring, athletic, and intelligent young Black woman — without them.
 
A San Diego product, Aysha Shaheed posted a PR of 11.62 in the 100-meter dash as a freshman at last season's Pac-12 Championships. That time still ranks as the seventh fastest on Cal's all-time list.