Big Sister & Little Sister of the Year 2025: RaKya & Aaliyah

Confidence in Progress: RaKya & Aaliyah’s Story

At 13, Little Sister Aaliyah is already standing out. She’s a gifted STEM scholar, a proud member of the Atlanta Children’s Choir, and a book lover with dreams of studying English. She’s curious, determined, and quietly confident — traits that have only grown stronger with the steady support of her Big Sister, RaKya Burkes.

Matched through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta nearly five years ago, Aaliyah and RaKya have built a connection that’s solid, honest, and full of trust. For Aaliyah, it came at the right time. She was coping with the loss of a loved one while facing major changes at home. It was a lot for a young girl to carry—but she wasn’t alone.

“RaKya made me feel like I had someone in my corner,” Aaliyah said. “Hanging out with Kya is a nice escape from everyday pressures, and a time to just have fun with someone I really care about.”

That consistency created space for transformation. Whether they’re hiking a trail, sharing dinner, or just talking through whatever’s going on, RaKya’s presence has helped Aaliyah grow in ways that matter. She’s more confident, and more sure of who she is.

“I’ve watched her come out of her shell,” RaKya said. “She’s learning how to use her voice and stand up for herself—and that’s been amazing to see.”RaKya, a first-generation Georgia State University graduate with a degree in Criminal Justice, became a mentor to help bridge gaps in opportunity and give back the kind of support that helped her reach her own goals. “I grew up surrounded by people who poured into me,” she said. “Becoming a Big felt like the most natural way to pay that forward. But it’s a two-way street—Aaliyah has taught me just as much as I’ve taught her. She’s shown me what it means to grow together with grace, patience, and love.”