In 2012, I knew I'd be a fan of five girls for a long time. Every week I anxiously watched the girl group, Fifth Harmony, perform on The X Factor. The girl who I personally connected with the most was Camila Cabello, a 15 year old student from Miami, Florida. It was evident that she was a unique person with distinctive characteristics and an undeniable passion for music. I admired her modesty and how genuine she continued to be with the viewers of this show - on and off camera.
After the show ended and Fifth Harmony received third place, it was clear that their journey would not be ending anytime soon. They were soon signed to Epic Records and were going to begin creating their own music. Once released, I immediately resonated with the band's original sound and continued following them on their journey. Throughout the years, I have been fortunate enough to meet and see them several times around the country and have never had a disappointing experience.
Camila had always been an outgoing individual that had indirectly reminded me that she was a normal girl experiencing the same struggles her fans were enduring. Our encounters were completely natural. We had conversations that I could have had with one of my friends and to this day it is hard for me to see her as "famous" because of how to down to earth and humble she continues to be. Now turning 20, she has accomplished more than most people will not accomplish in a lifetime. This only inspires me.
Throughout these four years, I have grown with her and watched her turn into a more confident and mature version of the girl I first watched on the X-Factor. Her values are the same and she remains completely genuine, which many people in the public eye find quite difficult while the whole world watches them. She has taught me countless life lessons that I would have learned much later in life if she hadn't taken that chance and auditioned. Many of the experiences I've had throughout the years and the people I've met are because of her and Fifth Harmony's role in my life.
Now, almost five years later, and although much has changed, I know that she is the same optimistic and quirky person who stayed determined week after week alongside her group members. She has taught millions around the world that it's okay to be yourself and trying to be someone you're not isn't worth it (no pun intended).
Her fan base, now called "Camilizers", are incredibly dedicated and have a undeniably close relationship with her. She is constantly keeping them in the loop when it comes to her life and music and will always make time to talk to them through social media and in person. I witnessed this firsthand when she randomly followed me on Twitter for showing support towards her cover in Seventeen Magazine. Personally, I believe she is currently one of the most genuine people in the world and without a doubt in the music industry.
Now that she is about to leave teenage world and turn 20, I want to thank her for all that she has taught me as a teenager. She constantly inspires people to not to give up on their dream and that anything is possible if you work hard enough. I remember hearing about how she wrote music with a midi keyboard on the floor of hotel bathrooms and now some of those demos are being produced into hits we'll hear on the radio
She has taught people, including myself, to take risks and to know that failure doesn't mean to stop what you're attempting to accomplish. She teaches us to love instead of hate, to encourage others to spread positivity, to remember that any type of pain will pass, and to always stand up for what you believe in. Also, to never forget where you came from and to always keep the beginning of your life close to your heart. Beautiful inside and out, she truly cares about the world and her fans. Without her, I believe a lot of people would be different individuals and not as inspired to achieve their ultimate goals.
Finally, I simply want to say Happy 20th Birthday, Camila. You are an inspiring and incredible person that millions look up to and continue to learn from. As crazy as it seems, you're leaving those dynamic teenage years and starting a new era of your life. Thank you for remaining humble throughout the years and for continuing your journey as a musician. Have an amazing birthday!






















