21st Century Leaders

Alumni Spotlight: Neha Chaparala

Anne Gahongayire — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 17:18:17 +0000

Name: Neha Chaparala
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2019
High School: Alpharetta High School
College: University of Georgia 2022
Current Role: Enterprise Client Manager, Sequoia Consulting Group; 21CL Alumni Board

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

My career has been nothing short of a roller coaster! I had dreamt of being a physician and pursuing a career in the medical field for as long as I could remember, however, that dream evolved with my participation in 21CL. When I became a 21st Century Leader, I was exposed to multiple different career paths that sparked new interests! It was while attending my first 21CL summer camp, the Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI) in 2017, that I discovered my interest in business and in building relationships. This interest grew the more I continued to network with 21CL alumni and when attending college. At the end of my junior year at UGA, I realized that I wholeheartedly had interest in pursuing the intersection of business and healthcare. With the help of 21st Century Leaders, I was able to secure an internship as a Health Consulting Analyst at Mercer in the summer of 2022! Following this internship, I landed a full-time job at the firm’s NYC office as a Health Consulting Analyst. I worked at the firm for 2 years and recently switched to a firm called Sequoia Consulting Group to continue pursuing healthcare consulting.

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)

The most memorable moment I had during my time at 21CL was definitely the day at 2017 SYLI that was focused on networking. I had always been a shy individual, afraid to ask questions and explore opportunities, however 21CL truly helped and guided me to become the most effective networking professional I could be! After attending that summer institute in 2017, I spent the rest of my summer reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn and other networking platforms to learn more about their profession and reach out for opportunities. I was able to take these experiences into the following summer at my second 21CL camp (EarthCare) where I showed up ready to learn even more! I am still very grateful for the leadership skills that I learned and that I continue to use in my career!

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?

Absolutely, 21CL assisted me in developing a servant leadership style! I have been applying the servant leadership qualities since attending 21CL leadership institutes. I remember when I was still in high school and didn’t appreciate the importance of team-work, however, in learning servant leaderships qualities, I realized that I could only be an effective leader while ensuring that all my team members felt heard and included!

I have also certainly made my own “tweaks” in the way I approach servant leadership over the years, however, I have always found that consistently ensuring that my team members and I are aligned on the same goal while equally feeling heard has made me an effective leader.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?

I believe that programs like 21CL help students to get appropriate exposure to different career opportunities and acquire great leadership skills. I have noticed that a lot of students are limited in their perception of career choices and often find themselves stuck between choices that they are not truly passionate about. With the wide range of education and alumni networking that 21CL provides, so many students across GA can gain insight into how many different paths they can take after high school and beyond! Additionally, even in my current career, I find myself using 21CL techniques whether it comes to public speaking or working with different styles of people! I would tell any current or future 21CL student to truly go “all-in” into the program. It’s truly such a privilege to have access to such a robust and accessible program. I am always so proud to be a 21CL alumna!

Legacy Partner Spotlight: Cox Enterprises

Nicole Meadows — Tue, 06 May 2025 20:17:30 +0000

21st Century Leaders Celebrates 35-Year Partnership with Cox Enterprises

(Atlanta, GA) – For 35 years and counting, Cox Enterprises has been supporting and partnering with 21st Century Leaders (21CL) to invest in youth leadership across the state of Georgia. In three and a half decades, this legacy partnership has served over 20,000 of Georgia’s high school students with workforce readiness, career exploration, and leadership development opportunities through employee-led training, workshops, curriculum, and school-based STEM clubs.

In 1989, a cohort of business leaders established 21st Century Leaders (known as the Georgia Business Forum until 1996) in response to an identified need in the workforce: to prepare diverse, young talent to take on leadership roles in the workplace. Over the years, 21st Century Leaders has solidified its reputation as Georgia’s premier youth leadership development organization. Through collaborations with corporate partners like Cox, high school students of all backgrounds and communities have access to high-level leaders, value-driven training, and insight into talent development trends and foreplanning that position them to succeed in their various career pathways.

“21st Century Leaders is celebrating 35 years of inspiring and empowering Georgia’s future STEAM leaders, and Cox is proud to be a part of this milestone. We are thrilled to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” says Maury Wolfe, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility and Social Impact, Cox Enterprises. “Through 21CL, we are advancing our mission to empower 34 million people by 2034. Together, we are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for Georgia’s youth.”

In 21CL’s early years, Cox employees helped develop the leadership training curriculum that continues to be relevant today for young leaders preparing to enter the workforce. Today, Cox supports 21CL in a variety of capacities and initiatives while committing to year-round employee engagement. Cox’s 21CL board position is currently held by Michael White, Assistant Vice President, Human Resources Business Partner, who serves as the Board Effectiveness Committee Chair. Now, over 60 Cox employees engage in volunteer opportunities with 21CL each year to invest in youth leadership, STEM education, and talent development.

Cox has been a consistent collaborator at 21CL’s Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI), providing opportunities for students to learn from employees in panels, workshops, and networking groups, and more recently hosting 80 students at Manheim Atlanta (a Cox Automotive business) to learn about careers, leadership, AI and robotics in the automotive industry. Through a resource ecosystem between 21CL, Cox Enterprises, and Science ATL developed in 2021, Cox supports 21CL’s school-based STEM+21CLubs, which give high school students the opportunities to serve their community and provide career exploration and leadership development for their peers, through a STEM-focused lens. Cox will support 10 STEM + 21CLubs, impacting over 200 students directly, in the 2025-2026 school year.

“Cox Enterprises has been a pillar of support and innovation in our mission for over 35 years,” says Kate Hewitt, Executive Director at 21st Century Leaders. “Their long-standing commitment to empower and invest in Georgia’s youth through leadership development, STEM education, and career exploration has helped shape the futures of thousands of students across the state. We’re proud of our partnership that exemplifies what it means to invest in the next generation of leaders.”

Additionally, Cox hosted 21CL’s Youth Ambassadors at their Ponce City Market offices for their meeting in December 2024. While there, students toured the space and learned about Cox’s goal to positively impact 34 million people by 2034. Over 22,000 students and alumni of 21st Century Leaders can be counted in that goal.

As 21st Century Leaders marked their 35th anniversary in 2024, Cox Enterprises continues to support the organization as a legacy partner, intersecting leadership, technology and inclusion through investment in the Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI) and STEM+21CLubs, as an employer of 21Cl alumni, and as a gold sponsor for 21CL’s annual fundraising gala, Be the Inspiration Gala, which took place on March 15, 2025 at Zoo Atlanta.

Written by Nicole Smith, Dir. of Programs & Communications, 21st Century Leaders (21CL Alumna)

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21CL Announces 2025 Georgia Youth Leadership Awardees

Nicole Meadows — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 21:52:11 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

21 Georgia High School Students to Be Honored at Signature Be the Inspiration Gala

(February 5, 2025) Atlanta, GA – 21st Century Leaders, Georgia’s premier youth leadership and workforce readiness program for high school students from diverse backgrounds across the state, announces the top 21 youth leaders selected for its annual Georgia Youth Leadership Awards (GYLA). The honorees will be recognized at the nonprofit’s annual fundraising event, the Be the Inspiration Gala, presented by Warner Bros. Discovery, to be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Zoo Atlanta in Atlanta, Ga.

21st Century Leaders (21CL), in partnership with the event’s corporate sponsors and partners, brings together business and civic leaders to raise support for 21st Century Leaders’ year-round leadership programs while also recognizing 21 of their own outstanding high school students throughout Georgia who have made a significant impact on their schools, communities and beyond.

21CL serves over 2,500 students annually and this year’s 21 awardees – all in high school and all members of 21st Century Leaders – include nonprofit founders, entrepreneurs, content creators, advocates, and volunteers who truly represent the diversity of Georgia with students from DeKalb to Muscogee to Richmond counties. The honorees exhibit 21CL’s leadership values of being resilient, service-oriented, forward-thinking, resourceful, and inclusive. The 21 awardees were carefully chosen by a 27-member selection committee of business professionals, 21CL Board of Directors, 21CL corporate volunteers and community leaders, and 21CL alumni and student peers. The full selection committee is listed below and on 21CL’s website.

21st Century Leaders is proud to announce the following 21 outstanding youth leaders for its 2025 Georgia Youth Leadership Awards:

Moatapari Agbere, Chattahoochee County High School, from Muscogee County
Ashley Nelson, Chamblee Charter High School, from DeKalb County
Michelle Wang, Fulton Science Academy, from Fulton County
Pranav Yellapragada, Chattahoochee High School, from Fulton County
Wendell Rogers, Dunwoody High School, from DeKalb County
Sreepadha Daram, Innovation Academy, from Fulton County
Hadil Adam, Clarkston High School, from DeKalb County
Ibraheem Hassan, Lakeside High School (Evans), from Columbia County
Tessa Hayes, Jefferson County High School, from Jefferson County
Daniella Taiwo, Lovejoy High School, from Fayette County
Christopher Boyd, Landmark Christian School, from Clayton County
Kenia Gonzalez-Chavez, Cedar Shoals High School, from Athens-Clarke County
Laurin McCoy, Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, from Richmond County
Ca’Leia Nelson, Milton High School, from Gwinnett County
Jace Williams, Westlake High School, from Fulton County
Ethan Barlay, Rockdale Magnet School, from Rockdale County
Sheona Diwakar, Campbell High School (Smyrna), from Cobb County
Micah Newton, Pickens County High School, from Pickens County
Yasmin Rios, Swainsboro High School, from Emanuel County
Sauyer Stewart, Arabia Mountain High School, from DeKalb County
Ronak Vyas, Alpharetta High School, from Fulton County

Through corporate sponsors’ support, each youth leader will be presented with a $500 grant at the Be the Inspiration Gala, with one student awarded the Warner Bros. Discovery Student Leadership Award, the event’s top award which includes a $1,000 grant from the presenting sponsor, Warner Bros. Discovery. Students are also paired with coaches who mentor the students throughout the event season. Our Georgia Youth Leadership Award Coaches are recognized and accomplished community leaders and/or members of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 Under 40 alumni, maintaining a partnership established with the group in 2008 when 21st Century Leaders first launched this event. The student winners and coaches met at a private Meet + Greet luncheon on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Emory’s Goizueta Business School, a sponsor and supporter.

This year’s Be the Inspiration Gala is being led by Co-Chairs and 21CL Board of Directors members Mari Sifo of Host Hotels and Resorts and Chi Nguyen of Insight Global. For more information about the Be the Inspiration Gala or to purchase a ticket to the event, please visit www.21stcenturyleaders.org. All proceeds from the event will support 21CL’s ongoing efforts to provide youth leadership and talent development programs for high school students across Georgia at little to no cost to students.

Georgia Youth Leadership Awards Coaches:

The Georgia Youth Leadership Award coaches for the 2025 student winners are Maranie Brown, BlackRock, 21CL Board of Directors*; Greg Clay, City of Atlanta, Mayor’s Office, 21CL Alumni*; Whitney Deal Marshall, Whitney Marshall Coaching*; Naceo Denney, Georgia Power*; Chandra Farley, City of Atlanta, Mayor’s Office of Sustainability & Resilience*; David Felfoldi, SHERPA Global*; Marty Fleischmann, The Masters Team*, Former 21CL Board of Directors; Tania Garcia, Senior Marketing Executive, 21CL Board of Directors; Brian Goebel, Goizueta Business School, Business & Society Institute, 21CL Board of Directors*; Taylor Green, Amazon Web Services, 21CL Alumni*; Poojan Karnik, Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center; Ashley Lee, The Coca-Cola Company*; DJ Lewis, Technology Consulting Executive; Lanita Lucas, Aflac*; Dr. Brandon Morgan, Iconic Orthodontics, 21CL Alumni*; Taunia Nkromo-Stevenson, Warner Bros. Discovery*; Michael Quigley, OVH Media*; Martha Revelo, DeKalb County; Ed Roche, Cox Enterprises, Former 21CL Board of Directors; Assi Van Bastelaar, Spotfire

Georgia Youth Leadership Awards Selection Committee
All nominations were reviewed by our 27-member GYLA Selection Committee, comprised of 21CL corporate volunteers, 21CL Board of Directors, and 21CL alumni and student peers. Committee members included the coaches indicated above, along with Curtis Bennett, MarketSource; Erik Bryant, Truist Wealth, 21CL Board of Directors; Neha Chaparala, Mercer, 21CL Alumni Board; Susannah Darrow, Purpose Possible; Dr. Shaneeta Johnson, Morehouse School of Medicine; Jeff Kupor, Invesco, 21CL Board of Directors; Clarke LeGrande, Wellstar; Jason Wallace, Capital Group, 21CL Board of Directors; Thurman Williams, Community Volunteer, Coca-Cola (retired); Anqi Zou, Truist, 21CL Board of Directors; and Hannah Lang, 21CL Youth Ambassador and 2024 GYLA Student Recipient.

About 21st Century Leaders
Since 1989, 21st Century Leaders has served more than 20,000 diverse high school students from 95% of Georgia’s counties. 21st Century Leaders’ mission is to connect, transform, and inspire high school students from diverse backgrounds across the state of Georgia to leverage diversity, explore career opportunities, and become leaders in their school, community, and ultimately the workforce.

21st Century Leaders is currently accepting student applications (until March 1st) into their leadership and development program and for their summer leadership institutes for the 2025 summer. The summer leadership institutes are residential one-week programs hosted on a college campus with our corporate partners and business professionals. 21CL accepts rising sophomores, juniors and seniors for the institutes. High school students of any grade can enroll in Leadership Connect, 21CL’s online learning platform, at any time and join the organization. For more information about 21st Century Leaders, visit www.21stcenturyleaders.org.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Nicole Smith
Director of Programs & Communications, 21st Century Leaders
nicole@21stcenturyleaders.org | 404.373.7441

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Legacy Partner Spotlight: Georgia Power

Nicole Meadows — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 19:01:42 +0000

21st Century Leaders Celebrates 35-Year Partnership with Georgia Power

(Atlanta, GA) – For 35 years, Georgia Power has been investing in youth leadership development for communities across Georgia by supporting and partnering with 21st Century Leaders (21CL) to inspire youth to lead. In three and a half decades, this legacy partnership has served over 20,000 of Georgia’s high school students with workforce readiness and leadership development, including volunteer opportunities, paid internships, diversity, equity and inclusion training, and careers for 21CL alumni.

21st Century Leaders was established in 1989 as the Georgia Business Forum by a community of business leaders with the purpose of meeting a noticed need in the workforce: to prepare diverse, young talent to take on leadership roles in the workplace. In 1996, the organization changed its name to 21st Century Leaders (21CL), a result of the strategic planning and branding vision of John Varner who served as 21CL’s Board Chair and a Georgia Power executive in the early 90’s. Today, 21st Century Leaders is known as Georgia’s premier youth leadership development organization.

As a partner from the beginning, Georgia Power’s commitment to business education partnerships strengthened the foundation of 21st Century Leaders with educators, community-based organizations, and other youth-focused organizations. In 35 years, much to the credit of partners like Georgia Power and their community-serving initiatives, 21CL has served students in 95% of Georgia’s counties, enabling equitable access to high quality leadership development programs for students with passion and potential in communities large and small.

“Georgia Power has been at the forefront of serving its community and investing in our youth and future workforce, so it’s no surprise that they’ve remained committed to 21st Century Leaders for the last 35 years,” says Kate Hewitt, Executive Director, 21st Century Leaders. “It’s an incredible testament to their values and to the power of investing in young people. We’re proud and grateful for their partnership and the collective impact we’re making together for the next generation of leaders right here in Georgia.”

“At Georgia Power, our commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders is unwavering. For 35 years, our partnership with 21st Century Leaders has embodied Our Values of Intentional Inclusion and Superior Performance, driving our mission to empower Georgia’s youth,” says Rachel Williams, Vice President of Transmission Field Operations, Georgia Power, 21CL Board of Directors. “By investing in their potential, we are not only shaping the future of our workforce but also enriching the communities we proudly serve. Together, we are creating a legacy of leadership, innovation and opportunity that will resonate for generations to come.”

Over the years, Board Members and community affairs champions from Georgia Power have been instrumental in developing the organization through opportunity, innovation, and collaboration. In 1991, 21CL launched its first “summer business academy” which provided business education and diversity training for Georgia’s high school students. When Ellen Lindemann, former Senior Vice President with Georgia Power, joined the 21CL Board of Directors in the 2000’s, she was instrumental in establishing EarthCare: The Leadership Challenge for the 21st Century in 2008.

EarthCare is 21CL’s one-week residential summer leadership institute focused around STEM and environmental stewardship, supported by Georgia Power and the Georgia Power Foundation, which connects students with over 70 Georgia Power employees who volunteer during the program week. Thanks to this partnership, over 1,400 high school students have attended EarthCare at no cost over the past 17 summers.

Additionally, Georgia Power has supported access to youth leadership through support of all of our year-round programming, including free enrollment into our Leadership Connect program, school-year training events, honoring Georgia Youth Leadership Awardees with scholarships, and placing graduating high school students in paid summer internships within their community partners through 21CL’s job shadowing and internship programs. 21CL alumni have even found employment with Georgia Power, following career exploration through our programs into a workforce talent pipeline for Georgia’s top companies.

Maria Flores Blackburn speaks to an audience when attending EarthCare 2009 as a high school student.

“Attending EarthCare in the summer of 2009 was a transformative experience for me. Thanks to the unwavering support from Georgia Power, I was able to participate in this incredible weeklong camp through 21st Century Leaders,” said Maria Flores Blackburn, Project Controls Supervisor, Transmission, Georgia Power, 21CL Alumni and 21CL Board of Directors. “The skills and confidence I gained during that time inspired me to take on leadership roles in my school and community, shaping my journey through high school, college, and beyond. As a CPA and finance professional, I am proud to now work for Georgia Power in a leadership role, and to serve on the board of 21st Century Leaders as Treasurer. This partnership has truly come full circle, and I am honored to be a part of it. The legacy partnership between Georgia Power and 21st Century Leaders has empowered over 20,000 students across Georgia, and I am a testament to the lasting impact of their commitment to youth leadership development.”

As 21st Century Leaders moves forward off their 35th anniversary in 2024, Georgia Power continues to support the organization as a legacy partner, sustaining their partnership for EarthCare each summer, hosting over 300 students for a Summer Orientation at their headquarters in Atlanta, and contributing support for 21CL’s charity golf outing and as a gold sponsor for 21CL’s annual fundraising gala, The Be the Inspiration Gala, taking place on March 15, 2025 at Zoo Atlanta.

Several of the featured Alumni Spotlights share the impact this company has had on them whether during a program or now as an employee.

Written by Nicole Smith, Dir. of Programs & Communications, 21st Century Leaders (21CL Alumni)

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Alumni Spotlight: Jade Bennett

Anne Gahongayire — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 21:11:44 +0000

For our 35th anniversary, we’ll be sharing the stories of 35 alumni showcasing the leaders they are today and how 21st Century Leaders inspired and impacted their journey. Alumni will represent the 3.5 decades since our founding in 1989 – the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s. Take a read and be inspired!

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2020’s Decade
Name: Jade Bennett
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2020
High School: Peach County High School
College: Georgia Southern University
Current Role: Staff Assistant, United States Senate

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

21st Century Leaders has played an important role in my academic, professional, and personal life. The skills I learned from the program have helped me grow as a person and in how I navigate the world. I was the first student from my county to apply and be accepted in the program [in quite a while], and my participation in the Earthcare summer leadership institute introduced me to many students my age who were very inspiring, and learning about their success and their dreams inspired me to aim higher and want to succeed in life. Coming from a rural area with limited access to such leadership development programs made me feel lost and less prepared than most of my peers but 21CL afforded me the opportunity to meet with executives and alumni of the program who offered me great support and advice. Through the program, I also received a scholarship and an internship with a business in my hometown. This helped tremendously for my college applications.

While a college student at Georgia Southern University, I joined various organizations and found my passion working with NGOs in the state of Georgia. I served as the president of Eagles Against Sex Trafficking (E.A.S.T.) and I worked with the Criminal Coordinating Justice Council and Children’s Advocacy Centers of Georgia to help create initiatives to combat human trafficking. This eventually led me to my current role as a congressional staffer on Capitol Hill. I hope to continue advocating for and implementing legislations that serve underrepresented communities. If I hadn’t had the exposure to public speaking and networking, I wouldn’t have been able to put myself forward, network and become the leader that I am today.

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL?

Learning how to craft an elevator pitch and network effectively was incredibly valuable. Understanding how to network properly and efficiently is an essential skill, especially in Washington D.C. and on Capitol Hill. This skill has stayed with me throughout high school, college, and now in my professional career. I am truly grateful to 21CL for teaching me and other high school students these important skills at such a crucial stage in our lives.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?

Yes, 21CL taught me that being an effective leader isn’t about being the loudest in the room. Instead, it’s about listening to your peers, valuing their opinions, and incorporating them into your approach. A great leader knows how to take constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth. Leading by example and supporting others along the way are key to long-term success. Additionally, the team-building exercises and the people that I met are an invaluable experience that I’m forever grateful for.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?

Programs like 21st Century Leaders are essential for young people because they provide high school students with the opportunities to explore various careers, develop strong leadership skills, discover your passions, connect with inspiring peers, and grow professionally and personally—all key to success as they transition from high school to college and beyond. My advice to future students is to be a sponge: soak up all the knowledge offered, trust in yourself, and always stay true to who you are.

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Alumni Spotlight: Munzir Ataalsid

Anne Gahongayire — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 19:07:57 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2020’s Decade
Name: Munzir Ataalsid
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2022
High School: Gwinnet School of Mathematics, Science and Technology
College: Georgia Institute of Technology
Current Role: Aerospace Engineering Student, Georgia Institute of Technology

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

I joined 21CL back in the summer of 2021 when I was in my filmmaking and video editing phase. I learned a ton and exercised my creativity all the while realizing I appreciate the art of filmmaking but I do not want to make a career out of it. Ever since then I reignited my passion for rockets, a passion and curiosity I’ve had since I was a child. 21CL had an immense impact on my senior year/early college experience. The confidence and lessons I learned helped me build genuine connections and make my senior year fruitful. One specific lesson I took from 21CL was that I’m not alone in having a sort of imposter’s syndrome. A lot of the most powerful leaders we look up to had to figure stuff out as they went. The only thing I can do is make decisions that I believe are the best in the moment based on the information I have available to me. This applied to my public speaking and leadership skills. A specific example of how this lesson truly impacted me was when I needed a volunteering opportunity at a local bird shelter. The shelter wasn’t looking to onboard any volunteers but I was persistent and knew it would be the perfect opportunity to do something I enjoyed while helping the community. I called several times and made myself and my knowledge of how to take care of birds evident. This landed me the volunteering opportunity and I had an amazing time. This is just one of the many examples of how 21CL and the lessons I learned from it benefited me greatly.

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)

A memorable moment in 21CL I will never forget is when we had Carl Azuz as a special guest and I got to personally ask him a question. I remember Carl Azuz fondly as he was an anchor on a news show for middle and high school students. I remember he came on the zoom call and my peers and I could instantly feel his energy as he was upbeat and spoke clearly. This showed me that you can greatly influence an audience by exuding confidence and great public speaking skills. After he spoke about his experience and life the organizers allotted time to ask questions and I was selected. I asked him for advice about how public speaking has allowed him to move up occupationally. His response further exemplified how important 21CL was in refining my character and its impact on my future.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?

21CL assisted me in learning how to put my group members first; it was far too easy for me to branch off and complete projects and tasks solo. However, putting the group first is critical to the success of any endeavor so learning this greatly improved my leadership skills. This specifically applies to my role in extracurricular clubs I am involved in now. I am on the Georgia Tech Experimental Rocketry team within the propulsion division and organizing people around certain tasks has been made easier with my learnings from 21CL.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?

Programs like 21CL are a gift of knowledge and experience like no other. One gets to meet new people both peers and professionals, exercise their public speaking and leadership skills, as well as be taken out of their comfort zone so they can improve. Programs like these are crucial as it’s difficult to gain the experience and knowledge by yourself or casually going about life. This focused program rapidly improves your skills and puts you ahead in life, socially and occupationally. My advice to a current/future student would be to take advantage of the network and events 21CL presents to you. You get what you put in, so make the most of the experience and push yourself so that you improve and come out a better and sharper person.

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Alumni Spotlight: Lailah Simmons

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 23:13:26 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2020’s Decade
Name: Lailah Simmons
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2021
High School: Dutchtown High School
College: North Carolina A&T State University
Current Role: Computer Graphics Student at North Carolina A&T State University (2025)

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

Through the skills I learned in my experience with 21st Century Leaders, I was able to break out of my shell and utilize important networking skills that have helped me acquire two Graphic Design internships during my college career, create a photography business, and be a crucial member of several organizations here at North Carolina A&T State University.

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)

My most memorable moment was back in 2018 when I attended the EarthCare summer leadership institute, and we did the Walk The Line activity. I cried in front of/with my fellow campmates. It was a great moment to see all the things we’d been through and this got me closer to my newfound friends.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?

21CL showed me that leading from a relatable perspective is the best way to bond with people. My counselors at the institute were like big siblings to me for the week I attended 21CL’s Summer Leadership Institute, and I used the lesson and energy from that bond to be a counselor for 21CL students during the last 2 years. It’s helped me truly make an impact on those younger than me.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?

I believe such programs as 21CL are important because they instill a sense of confidence, new understanding of the professional environment, and it’s a wonderful program that helps to meet and connect with new friends. Without 21CL, I wouldn’t have met so many people I’m still in touch with today, wouldn’t have been as good with networking and professionalism, and now I can help foster those bonds with younger students. My advice to future/current students: Take a deep breath and GO FOR IT! Messing up is okay, nobody is perfect. As long as you try and believe in yourself, you’re good!

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Alumni Spotlight: James Wilson

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 22:02:23 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2020’s Decade
Name: James Wilson
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2021
High School: Newton High School
College: Georgia State University
Current Role: SGA President & Intern to the Chancellor’s Office, Georgia State University

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

My career has taken me from my classroom to the State Capitol and beyond. I have worked for and with our State Government in numerous capacities, and the leadership competencies I learned and developed in 21st Century Leaders set me up for success in my critical thinking, teamwork, public speaking, and networking abilities for sure.

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program,
meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)

The 2019 Turner Voices Youth Media Institute opened my eyes in ways I still can’t describe. I had never been exposed to such a high level of professionalism, business, or leadership. Every day of the institute was a memorable experience, and the friends and connections I made there are still active parts of my life to this day.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If
so, how?

21st Century Leaders assisted me in developing a leadership style that’s focused on people first, and that’s been the difference between the success and failure of everything I’ve done academically and professionally in college. When people recognize that you genuinely care about them and their ideas and talents, you’ll succeed. I learned that thanks to 21CL and I practice it everyday.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give
to a current or future student?

Programs like this are important because so many people have leaders sleeping inside themselves, and 21CL and programs like it help to inspire and awaken our inner leader. That was certainly the case for me. My advice to current and future students in 21CL is lean in to every experience, every lesson, every event, every program, and every connection that you make through the program. There’s a lesson to be learned in everything, and if you take the time to find and apply it– you’ll thrive.

Alumni Spotlight: April Moss

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 18:06:56 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2020’s Decade
Name: April Moss
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2022
High School: Effingham County High School
College: Wake Forest University
Current Role: Student, Wake Forest University Cheerleader, & Incoming Summer Analyst at J.P. Morgan Private Bank

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

21st Century Leaders has been instrumental in my development from high school to college and continues to influence my approach to my future career. My participation in programs such as SYLI, Healthcare & IT Institute, and EarthCare Summer Leadership Institutes allowed me to explore various industries and establish professional connections in those fields. These experiences gave me the confidence to pivot from the pre-med track to majoring in economics–a decision that aligned more closely with my evolving interests and career aspirations. Additionally, my involvement in 21CL leadership summits such as the Fall Summit- Leadership Exchange, the Goizueta Youth Leadership Summit, and other student experiences including Youth Ambassadors, WarnerMedia Story Coaching Workshops, the 2020 Virtual Town Hall, and Leadership Connect all allowed me to connect with future-oriented, like-minded peers while expressing and discussing relevant topics. These experiences prepared me for college by fostering essential collaboration and communication skills. As a result, I entered Wake Forest University prepared to interact with a diverse group of students; I have worked effectively with my teammates on the Wake Forest University Cheerleading Team, and have excelled academically while maintaining a healthy balance between academics and social life.

One of the most impactful lessons I learned from 21st Century Leaders is that “though I am young, I can still significantly impact my community.” I’ve carried this mindset into my time at Wake Forest by becoming a Resident Advisor, where I support first-year students in their transition to college and work to foster a welcoming and supportive community. I have also participated in service initiatives, including volunteering at my university’s annual “Hit the Bricks” walk/run fundraiser for the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund and “Victory Day” which is in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of Winston-Salem. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact in my community, both now and in the future.

What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)

My most memorable moment during my involvement with 21CL is at the 2019 EarthCare Summer Leadership Institute. During the institute, I participated in an impromptu speaking competition on environmental topics, which resulted in my group winning the Toastmasters Best Table Topics Award. The following evening, I was asked to deliver the welcome at the Industry Partners Dinner. At the time l did not fully understand where my confidence to speak in front of peers and esteemed professionals came from. However, upon reflection, I realize that winning the Toastmasters award, encouragement from fellow 21CL institute participants, and guidance from 21CL staff, gave me the confidence to step up and embrace that opportunity. These experiences not only shaped my perspective and approach to public speaking, but also transformed my confidence as a leader. Gaining the confidence to speak in front of audiences at 15 years old has since empowered me to embrace new challenges with poise and excitement, both in and beyond public speaking.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? if so, how?

Yes! 21st Century Leaders was pivotal in shaping my visionary leadership style by encouraging me to set short-term goals aligned with my long-term objectives, emphasizing the value of innovation, and cultivating a mindset that embraces new ideas. Through 21CL’s team building and leadership development exercises, I was able to develop a leadership style that aligned with my natural strengths, while also learning how to effectively communicate and collaborate with individuals who embody different leadership styles.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?

Programs like 21st Century Leaders are important for youth because they provide high school students with opportunities to explore various careers and industries, develop effective leadership skills, discover their unique leadership style, and improve their professionalism–all essential tools for success as students transition to college and adulthood.

My advice to current and future students is to embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and explore new interests. Be open to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things and you will unlock your full potential.

21st Century Leaders Announces First Ever Leadership Certificate from Goizueta Business School for GA H.S. School Students

Nicole Meadows — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 15:57:46 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

21st CENTURY LEADERS ANNOUNCES FIRST EVER LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATE FROM GOIZUETA BUSINESS SCHOOL FOR GEORGIA’S HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Atlanta, GA (December 4, 2024) – 21st Century Leaders (21CL), a non-profit and Georgia’s and premier youth leadership development program, and Emory University’s Goizueta Business School have leveraged their nearly 20-year partnership to present an opportunity for high school students to earn a Leadership Certificate from the business school through a capstone project focused on social enterprise and entrepreneurship. This is the only program through which high school students can obtain this certificate.

Through 21st Century Leaders’ proprietary online learning platform, Leadership Connect, students engage with gamified lessons that they complete at their own pace, earning points and unlocking rewards as they develop their leadership skills in an online community and “level up their leadership.” Leadership Connect’s four levels of content and curriculum, comprising over 170 lessons, focus on foundational leadership competencies; social-emotional learning and diversity, equity and inclusion; life skills including financial literacy and civic engagement; and the capstone of social enterprise and entrepreneurship. Over the past decade, 21CL has been developing Leadership Connect’s content, with the culminating level of curriculum, Level 4: Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Capstone, recently launched in fall 2024 in collaboration with Goizueta.

“At Goizueta, we believe in the power of leadership and innovation to drive positive change. We’re thrilled to extend this experience to high school students through our partnership with 21st Century Leaders,” shares Gareth James, John H. Harland Dean of Goizueta Business School. “This Leadership Certificate focuses on topics such as entrepreneurship and social responsibility, offering young leaders a unique opportunity to develop skills early on that are essential for thriving in the world today. We are excited to see the impact these students will make as they apply what they’ve learned in their communities and beyond.”

In its inaugural year, Level 4: Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Capstone is time-bound and project-based; students complete lessons and submit assignments between monthly meetings with a cohort of peers and Leadership Connect coaches, all of whom are current MBA candidates or graduates of Goizueta. Collaborating with Goizueta faculty and students, 21CL built out this customized social enterprise curriculum through interactive, gamified content and videos recorded by Goizueta professors and MBA graduates/candidates tailored to high school students.

Between now and April 2025, these 21st Century Leaders’ high school students will work with their assigned MBA volunteer coach to develop a social enterprise and business pitch together, which will be presented at the end of the school year. The experience will end with an exciting pitch day in person at Goizueta Business School on April 19, 2025. Those that complete Level 4 also receive a Leadership Certificate that is jointly presented by 21st Century Leaders and Goizueta, an exclusive credential for high school students to have as they pursue post-secondary education and career pathways.

“This is an extremely exciting time not just for 21st Century Leaders as an organization, but also for our students who are receiving an experience and education in entrepreneurship and leadership from an international-ranked MBA program – as high school students!” says Kate Hewitt, Executive Director of 21st Century Leaders. “Our partnership with Goizueta Business School has unlocked potential and opened doors for thousands of students over the last two decades, but this certificate and curriculum has the power to take students to a whole new level of opportunity, success, and careers.”

This year’s cohort includes 28 students from across Georgia – including Berrien, Emanuel, Jefferson, and Harris Counties – and 14 coaches representing Goizueta.

Please join us in congratulating and thanking our 2024-2025 MBA volunteers:

Prashant Patro, MBA Candidate ‘25
Mackenzie Heriford, MBA Candidate ‘26
Jeff Shibata, MBA Candidate ‘26
Taylor Green, MBA ‘21 (21CL Alumna)
Tom Moak, MBA Candidate ‘25
Simran Verma, MBA Candidate ‘26
Delaria Ridley, MBA Candidate ‘25
Benjamin James, MBA Candidate ‘26
David Azu, MBA Candidate ‘25
Harsh Tilwani, MBA Candidate ‘26
Braden Skripak Gordon, MBA Candidate ‘26
James Cochran, MBA Candidate ‘26
Alina Mencias, MBA ‘24 (21CL Board of Directors)
Nathaniel Okyere-Bour, MBA Candidate ‘26

Congratulations to the inaugural Level 4 cohort participants: Shail Avashia, Innovation Academy ‘26; Bella Burroughs, Harris County HS ‘26; Rishi Byakod, South Forsyth HS ‘26; Jerel Clark, Elite Scholars Academy ‘26; Sreepadha Daram, Innovation Academy ‘26; Sreya Donthineni, Innovation Academy ‘27; Carissa Hagood, Richmond Hill HS ‘27; Tessa Hayes, Jefferson County HS ‘27; Josie Herren, Berrien County HS ‘26; Sarah Ikaiddi, Arabia Mountain HS ‘26; Kaelyn Jin-Britt, Innovation Academy ‘26; Niki Karimifard, Northview HS ‘26; Anshuman Khadanga, Evans HS ‘25; Hannah Lang, Georgia Cyber Academy ‘25; Leia Lankford, Woodstock HS ‘25; Fucheng Li, Darlington School ‘26; Muhammed Marrie, Westlake HS ‘25; Ansh Mithani, Innovation Academy ‘26; Lokesh Pampatti, Chapel Hill HS ‘25; Vidhi Raiyani, Putnam County HS ‘26; Yasmin Rios, Swainsboro HS ‘26; Litzy Sanchez, Morrow HS ‘27; Anjika Shah, Lanier HS ‘27; Rhea Shah, GSMST ‘25; Sauyer Stewart, Arabia Mountain HS ‘25; Victoria Szczesny, Johns Creek HS ‘27, Ronak Vyas, Alpharetta HS ‘25; Jace Williams, Westlake HS ‘26.

About 21st Century Leaders

21st Century Leaders is a non-profit organization with a mission to connect, transform, and inspire high school students from across the state of Georgia to leverage and promote diversity and inclusion, explore career opportunities, and become leaders across their schools, communities, and, ultimately, the workforce. Through innovative programs and experiences, we’re equipping and empowering young talent to lead in companies and communities, while fostering a culture of inclusion and service. Visit www.21stcenturyleaders.org to learn more about our transformational programs for high school students across Georgia.

About Goizueta Business School

Business education has been an integral part of Emory University’s identity since 1919. That kind of longevity and significance does not come without a culture built on success and service. Emory University’s Goizueta Business School offers a unique, community-oriented environment paired with the academic prestige and rigor of a major research institution. Goizueta develops business leaders of today and tomorrow with an undergraduate degree program, Full-time MBA (Two-Year MBA & One-Year MBA), Evening MBA, Executive MBA, MS in Business Analytics, Master of Finance, Master in Management, Master in Business for Veterans, Doctoral degree, and a portfolio of non-degree Emory Executive Education courses. Together, the Goizueta community strives to solve the world’s most pressing business problems. The school is named for the late Roberto C. Goizueta, former Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company.

For more information, visit goizueta.emory.edu.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mitch Leff

Leff & Associates

mitch@leffassociates.com | 404-861-4769

Nicole Smith

Director of Programs & Communications, 21st Century Leaders

nicole@21stcenturyleaders.org | 404-373-7441