Panthers of ISKL #311: BonBee L. (‘28) - The Optimistic Panther
I truly believe that a positive and supportive environment is essential for everyone to do their best. Even when I'm personally struggling, I find that lifting others and sharing a laugh actually helps me overcome the challenge.
Meet BonBee L. (‘28), a second-generation Panther who has called ISKL her second home since Grade 2, arriving from South Korea.
Known for her infectious optimism, she was nominated for “always rooting for her peers to succeed.” She pours this positive energy into her diverse co-curricular life, including leading a dance team, serving as a Student Ambassador Leader, and participating in the volleyball team.
Here is BonBee’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself? What grade did you join ISKL?
I was born and raised in South Korea and attended Elementary School at ISKL in Grade 2, and it has been my second home ever since.
A special part of our family's story is that my mom is also an ISKL alumni, so coming here felt like continuing a cherished family legacy.
You have been nominated for “always rooting for her peers to succeed, and even in difficult situations, she finds a way to laugh and make others feel happy.” What do you think about this statement? How do you keep optimistic?
I agree. I truly believe that a positive and supportive environment is essential for everyone to do their best. Even when I'm personally struggling, I find that lifting others and sharing a laugh actually helps me overcome the challenge.
Please describe what co-curricular activities you take part in at ISKL.
I love staying involved in our school community. I'm an athlete, a musician, and a volunteer. I play on the volleyball team, am leading a dance team, and serve as a Student Ambassador Leader. I'm also passionate about giving back through the Key Club and the Beacon Club.
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
I draw inspiration from the people closest to me: my friends, who constantly motivate me; my parents, who guide and support me; and my volleyball coaches, who teach me about discipline and teamwork.
What are your plans after you graduate from ISKL?
To be honest, I’m not sure yet!
Which Panther are you?
🐾 I think I fit the most with the Onz panther. (Onz means nothing is impossible)
Share why you chose this superlative and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I’m the Most Onz Panther because I genuinely believe that everything happens for a reason and there is always a path to achieve your goals. This mindset pushes me to stay positive, work through obstacles, and encourage my peers to never give up, which I feel is at the heart of our Panther spirit.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you:
I Suka (Like) ISKL because of our incredibly supportive and welcoming community. But what makes me love it even more are the endless opportunities to try new things, grow as a person, and make a difference, both within the school and beyond.
What does ISKL’s vision, “Know yourself, care for all and create a better world,” mean to you?
To me, this vision is a kind of a guide for life. "Know yourself" means actively exploring my strengths, passions, and values through all the opportunities ISKL offers. "Care for all" is about putting that self-awareness into action: showing empathy, supporting my peers, and so on. Finally, "create a better world" is the belief that all these small actions add up, empowering us to make a positive impact, starting right here in our community.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.