Survivor 46 competitor Sodasia (Soda) Thompson is part of the Nami tribe and has earned herself a following of which the members call themselves “club soda” – but who is this talented woman? Soda had a passion for education since a young age when she utilized textbooks and proficiency as an outlet for her unwholesome, tough childhood. Soda arms herself with strategic and physical prowess combined with unmatched resilience, and Thompson’s game is poised to dominate. With a sharp eye for alliances, game dynamics, and a knack for outwitting rivals, Soda’s course to the coveted Sole Survivor title seems inevitable.
Since its debut in 2000, Survivor has captivated audiences worldwide with its thrilling mix of strategy, survival, and drama. This pioneering reality TV show leaves contestants in isolated, warm locations, challenging them to outsmart, outplay, and outlast their competitors for a million-dollar grand prize. Survivor 46 introduces Soda, who shook up the survival series with her relentless competitive spirit. Despite being burned by strategic gameplay on the island of Fiji, Soda remains a force to reckon with outside the game. Soda’s resilience and determination ensure she continues to thrive, whether in the classroom or navigating the challenges of everyday life.
Soda’s academic journey began with an Advanced Regents Diploma from Bay Shore High School, followed by a year-long delve into vocal jazz at Hofstra University (2014-2015), The Cinemaholic reported. Soda honed her skills by obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Entertainment and Media Management from Purchase College, SUNY. Her professional ascent commenced with a role as a Programming Specialist at Trail Blazer Camps in 2017, gradually elevating to the position of Recess Coordinator/Site Director. Soda transitioned to a Special Education Teacher at VOICE Charter School in 2019. As of July 2023, she imparts her knowledge and expertise at Banyan School.
Soda’s walk down the aisle boasts a memorable moment. Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Soda disclosed that she once embraced risk for a brighter future, opting to tie the knot with Danrley Silva, a Brazilian native, at a tender age. Despite only knowing each other for six months, their leap of faith paid off handsomely. Fast-forward to 2023, the couple marked six years of blissful togetherness. Danrley, a Montessori teacher affiliated with Trail Blazers Camps and Save the Children U.S., is Soda’s pillar of support. A heartfelt Instagram post commemorating their fifth anniversary radiates love and appreciation, encapsulating their enduring bond.
Growing up in a tumultuous environment, Soda navigated a challenging upbringing marked by familial dysfunction. Raised by a guardian battling mental health issues and absent biological parents battling addiction, Soda found solace in educating herself. Discovering a passion for learning propelled her forward, leading her to pursue a “love for school,” The Cinemaholic reported. Motivated by her interactions with the children in her classroom, Soda chose to take a chance on reality TV, joining Survivor 46 as a castaway. Soda’s upbringing fueled her drive for education, empathy towards children, and diverse interests, shaping her into a resilient and multifaceted individual.
Source: The Cinemaholic, Entertainment Weekly, Sodasia Thompson/Instagram