Nilka Yadira Croney
, North Carolina
Born on April 4 1963 in Rio Abajo Panama Nilka began her life at 2508 7th Street where she was welcomed home by her loving family and the closeknit community of Caesar Village. From the very beginning Nilkas presence was felt. Her aunts and uncles quickly became devoted protectors of both Nilka and her younger brother Lenny who was born one year and five months later. Nilka completed her primary education at Escuela Manuel Espinosa Batista and her secondary studies at Instituto Commercial Panam. As a young child one of Nilkas favorite pastimes was taking long walks up and down the neighborhood hills and visiting the park where she could spend hours enjoying the swings. A story that perfectly reflects the Nilka we all came to know and love took place when she was 14 years old. Nilka had the honor of serving as a bridesmaid in her Aunt Tanias…