In our community, it’s normal to see older kids drinking on weekends. One day, some friends asked me to come to a party. They said I should just “try one drink.” But during our sessions, we talked about underage drinking and how it can affect your body, mind and dreams.

I remembered what our coach said: “You don’t need alcohol to belong.” So I said no. They teased me, but later, one friend said I did the right thing. That night, I stayed home and played soccer with my younger brother instead.

The biggest change for me is confidence. I can now say no and feel proud. I choose my future over peer pressure.