young professionals – 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!

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.

Share the inspiration!

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: Patrice Johnson

Anne Gahongayire — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:59:46 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Patrice Johnson
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2014
High School: Northgate High School
College: Spelman College/ Emory University
Current Role: MBA Candidate, Goizueta Business School-Emory University

How has your career unfolded, and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for college, new leadership roles, and beyond?

Since participating in 21CL, I was admitted into my dream college, Spelman College, where I discovered my passion for Economics. I graduated with a BA in Economics in 2018, and after graduating, I had the privilege of working at Delta Air Lines and Apple Inc. in roles I genuinely enjoyed. Currently, I am pursuing my MBA at Emory University, with plans to transition into Investment Banking post-graduation. 21CL provided me with early exposure to the business world and helped shape my leadership skills. It also emphasized the importance of investing in youth, which is why I’ve consistently dedicated my time to programs that develop the next generation of leaders throughout the matriculation of my career.

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

My most memorable experience with 21CL was a business etiquette dinner where we learned practical skills like taking small bites to stay engaged in conversation and signaling to wait staff when we are finished with a plate. As my career has evolved, I have seen firsthand the importance of networking, and those early lessons on presence and etiquette at business dinners have been invaluable. At the time, I didn’t realize just how crucial these skills would be, but over ten years later, they remain tools I rely on and that have served me well.

Did 21CL help you develop a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?

21CL is very intentional about giving students early opportunities to lead. During one program, I was asked to say the dedication over dinner—a first for me. While it was a small task, the experience felt empowering, and the encouragement I received afterward showed me that leadership doesn’t have to be intimidating. This lesson gave me confidence to step into new leadership roles and taught me to volunteer for opportunities, even if they make me nervous or are unfamiliar.

Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? What advice would you give to current or future students?

Programs like 21CL are invaluable, and I believe the most valuable assets they offer are visibility and representation. It is much easier for one to believe in their potential when they see people who look like them achieving things they dream of. My advice to current and future 21CL students is to nurture the relationships they build with their cohort—many will go on to achieve incredible things, and those connections will pay dividends throughout their career. And most importantly, always find ways to give back!

Share the Inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Mary Grace Feldman

Anne Gahongayire — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:45:09 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Mary Grace Feldman
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2018
High School: Colquitt County High School
College: The University of Georgia
Current Role: Digital Media Coordinator, University of Georgia Public Service & Outreach

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 credit 21^st Century Leaders for sparking my interest in the communications industry. I grew up in Moultrie, a rural town in southwest Georgia. Many of the careers I saw from day to day were the people I interacted with – teachers, small business owners, government officials and more. One of the roles I did not see was marketing and communications professionals.

Attending the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute in the summer of 2017 was lifechanging for me. Not only did I network with leaders in the journalism field, but I also got to know Turner’s Corporate Social Responsibility team. I had no clue jobs like that even existed. I was excited about the possibility of turning my passion for serving others into a career. This led me to pursue a degree in public relations at the University of Georgia the following year. At UGA, I was immediately hooked on the communications industry.

While at the University of Georgia, I started working as a student for the Archway Partnership, a unit of Public Service and Outreach at UGA. In this role, I was combining my newfound passion for communication with solving locally-identified issues for counties across the state including my own. After graduating with a master’s degree in integrated advertising and public relations, I chose to stay in Public Service and Outreach at UGA as a digital media coordinator. I love knowing that the work I do is helping amplify the work UGA does across the state including in my own hometown.

Without 21CL, I truly believe I never would have pursued a career in public relations or thought of ways to combine a passion for service with a love for digital communication. 21CL led me to pursue internships in my chosen field throughout my senior year in high school and get a head start on gaining valuable professional experience before stepping foot on a college campus. I’m grateful for all the opportunities that came my way thanks to 21CL.

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.)

I think the ‘aha’ moment for me was meeting Carl Azuz at a networking dinner during my summer institute. He hosted CNN Student News, a show we watched daily in school. Meeting someone I saw as a “big name” in news and journalism truly made it click for me how incredible of an opportunity our summer institute was. It challenged me to network and meet all the speakers we crossed paths with throughout the week (and there were A LOT!). It’s amazing the number of opportunities 21CL manages to pack into a single week for the summer institutes, and I am so grateful to be a past participant (and volunteer when I can!).

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

21CL encouraged me to see myself as a leader. As a 17-year-old, I never would have considered myself a leader but 21CL helped me to change my perspective and see that I wasn’t becoming a future leader; I was a leader. This empowered me to pursue new opportunities with confidence. I pursued leadership roles in organizations I was a part of and even spoke up in meetings where I wasn’t the most experienced person in the room. I think this realization came for me through the Georgia Youth Leadership Awards when I received the award in 2018. Seeing the accomplishments of my peers and knowing that someone thought to nominate me for an award changed my mindset of myself and encouraged me to push myself out of my comfort zone as a leader.

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

I think programs like 21CL are important to introduce students to new people and perspectives across the state and beyond. For me, it was introducing me to a career path I never thought possible, but for others, it’s meeting someone who grew up in an entirely different walk of life from them. Every time I go back to a 21CL event as a volunteer, I am amazed at the awesome students who are involved in this program. I think students who participate in programs like 21CL are set up for success in their future education and career paths.

If I could give current or future 21CL students advice, I would encourage them to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way. Sign up for the summer institute. Volunteer to introduce a speaker. Find ways to be more involved or step out of your comfort zone. Most importantly, network! The students and professionals you meet in 21CL are key resources for you in the future. Stay connected with them throughout your time in 21CL and beyond.

Share the Inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Estefi Herrera-Paredes

Anne Gahongayire — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 14:18:29 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Estefi Herrera-Paredes
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2016
College: Georgia College and State University
Current Role: Account Strategist, Google

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 some incredible turns since my time with 21CL. Currently, I’m an Account Strategist at Google in San Francisco, but my journey has also included roles at Warner Bros. Discovery, Morning Brew, and Twitter (X) in New York City.

21st Century Leaders truly opened the first door, and many more have followed. It all started with me attending the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute – currently known as Film & Entertainment Institute, sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery – back in 2015. That experience ignited my networking skills and helped me build valuable connections.

I stayed involved with 21CL as a 21CL Youth Ambassador, further expanding my network. Then, as graduation approached, 21CL connected me with a life-changing internship. In the summer of 2016, I worked at Warner Bros. Discovery (formerly Turner) as a “Turner Voices Intern” for the Department of Culture and Engagement. I even helped plan the following year’s summer camp!

That internship sparked a chain reaction. I secured internships every summer after that through my growing network, setting me up for success and ultimately leading to a fantastic job that took me from Atlanta to NYC.

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.)

About halfway through my Turner Voices internship, my manager took me for coffee in the CNN building’s atrium. Looking me straight in the eye, she asked if I was happy. I was stunned. This was a dream internship—why would she even ask?

Confused, I replied, ‘Of course I am, why?’ Her response? ‘You never smile and don’t seem like you want to be here.’

That conversation, almost a decade ago, changed me forever. It wasn’t just about smiling; it was about being human and vulnerable at work. We spend so much time with our colleagues—it’s crucial to be authentic. Don’t dull your light.

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

21CL significantly shaped my leadership style. Its greatest impact was in developing my collaborative skills. Effective leadership hinges on the ability to work well with others. This means truly listening to people, even when you disagree with them.

The program’s constant team-based environment pushed me to compromise and find solutions that benefited both individuals and the group as a whole. This valuable lesson has stayed with me throughout my career.

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

Important is an understatement. These programs are absolutely vital to the youth of [Georgia]. As someone with immigrant parents, my opportunities were once incredibly limited. 21CL opened doors I never knew existed, and I still feel the positive impact today.

My advice to current and future students? Stay hungry. Feed your curiosity, ask questions, push boundaries, and challenge yourselves. That’s how you grow. Take advantage of every resource available—they are precious and not accessible to everyone, so don’t let them go to waste!

Share the Inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Tonia Brown

Anne Gahongayire — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 18:46:20 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Tonia Brown
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2018
High School: Eagle’s Landing High School
College: Mississippi State University/Syracuse University
Current Role: Meteorologist & On Air Personality, WBRC

How has your career unfolded, and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps?

I am a professional meteorologist, content creator, and Navy Reserve METOC officer, and my journey in these roles has been significantly shaped by the skills I gained in 21CL. The program taught me the core qualities of leadership—confidence, humility, professionalism, and resilience. Through 21CL, I learned that leadership is not only about guiding others but also about consistently showing up as the best version of myself in any environment. These skills were invaluable as I navigated new leadership roles in college and beyond. As a young leader, I’ve discovered that it is possible to pursue a meaningful career while also nurturing my family and personal passions. Balancing these aspects of life is challenging, but the journey is truly rewarding.

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

My ‘aha’ moment came during the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute, especially while touring CNN. This experience deepened my passion for news and media, which has become central to my career as an on-air meteorologist for WBRC. The program encouraged me to ask questions, express my ideas, and speak confidently in front of an audience—skills crucial in my career. The mentorship and encouragement I received from the 21CL community helped me believe in my potential at a young age and ultimately guided me toward where I am today.

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

Absolutely! 21CL helped me shape a transformative leadership style emphasizing growth, learning, and development. I believe that as leaders, we’re never truly finished learning and growing, and the program taught me to embrace this mindset. My approach as a leader is to encourage others to strive for excellence, knowing that perfection isn’t the goal, but consistent improvement is. This mindset has allowed me to support and inspire those around me, fostering a positive and resilient team culture.

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 crucial because they invest in young people’s development early on, equipping them with skills, confidence, and vision. They encourage young minds to pursue their dreams, however big they may seem, by providing both practical skills and a supportive community. My advice to a current or future student would be to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, ask questions, and never hold back from pursuing what excites you. The journey may be challenging, but these foundational experiences will set you up for success in ways you might not even imagine yet.

Share the inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Simone Maxwell

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 18:09:16 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Simone Maxwell
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2015
High School: North Cobb High School
College: University of Montevallo
Current Role: Vice President of Data Analytics & Transformation, Citi Commercial 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?

I think so far, my career has unfolded pretty well. I started at Citigroup as an intern and rejoined for their full-time financial analyst program in 2019. Over the last 5 years, I have had the opportunity to rotate throughout Finance on 3 different teams (FP&A, Technology & Innovation, and Controllers). After 4 years in finance, I made a pretty big shift and took a role in Citi’s Commercial Bank. It has been a great learning experience and growth opportunity for me.

Overall, when I think of my career, I have been very blessed with wonderful opportunities for advancement, and development. I am extremely excited to see where this career takes me next.

21^st Century Leaders really gave me the foundation. Both my parents worked in corporate and I had a pretty good understanding of what this corporate journey would look like, but it was wonderful to have an organization that really cemented many of these fundamentals. 21CL prepared me when it came to attire, professionalism and corporate presence and it was my first real exposure before I started my internships and college professional programs. Additionally, 21^st Century Leaders provided a strong network of people, many of whom I am still friends with today. When I need advice, or simply want to learn more about a new field, I often reach out to them about their experiences.

The experience in 21CL, gave me the boost to take on numerous leadership opportunities in college, collegiate sports, and in my current career. I think through the many conversations, interactions, and introduction to such a diverse group of people, it made me the inquisitive, understanding, and confident leader I am today. Overall, I truly believe I am better due to my experience with 21CL.

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.)

21st Century Leaders was an extremely rewarding experience, from the really cool industry leaders who came to speak with us, the professional development sessions, to simply just being with new friends on a college campus for a week in the summer.

It has been a while since I was in the program, but I think a random ‘aha’ moment that comes to mind is in one of our development sessions, we discussed making a six-figure salary. We talked about the different career options, and I believe we had past members come to discuss their salary and the ages that they reached six figures. In an age of increased salary transparency, I think that hearing past members be so open about their earnings, made making six figures seem attainable and that of reality. It allowed me to level-set and create realistic goals for my career.

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

I don’t know if 21CL helped me develop a specific leadership style, but I know that it contributed to the empathetic, assertive, and confident leader that I am today. Additionally, the various interactions with my class and leaders provided me strong interpersonal skills that have contributed to my career success.

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

I think programs like 21CL are wonderful enrichment programs for younger students. In high school, many of us have “ideals” about what we want to do or specialize in at college, however, one needs exposure to help open their mind to other possibilities out there and avenues one can take based off skillset and interests. 21CL did a great job at shaping/creating structure in my young and inquisitive mind!

For me, 21st Century Leaders provided an eye-opening perspective through the networking, panel sessions, speaking engagements, etc. I learned so much and really got a better understanding of what my future could look like. And as a plus, I met many likeminded individuals that have become friends/connections for life.

To a future or current 21st Century student, I would say to speak up, put yourself out there and really live in the experience. This will be something new, but if done fully it can be a truly rewarding experience.

Share the inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Shannon Wiggins

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:04:25 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2000’s Decade
Name: Shannon Wiggins
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2009
High School: Salem High School
College: The University of Georgia/University of West Georgia
Current Role: Director of Public Relations & Communications, City of Chamblee

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 used to be a shy and introverted teenager until I attended two summer camps through the 21^st Century Leaders Program. This program encouraged me to come out of my shell and to connect with other peers from across the state. From attending those camps, I eventually became friends and classmates at The University of Georgia with several of those individuals. 21CL taught me the importance of networking, building connections, and being confident in myself. Developing those skills has helped me to become a communications professional for local municipalities where I am responsible for keeping thousands of residents informed, educated, and engaged. In times of crisis, 21CL has prepared me to become a fearless leader in rolling out a communications plan and protocol for my staff that focuses on keeping the community safe and informed in a timely manner.

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 is how sad I was when leaving the 21CL Summer Camp. I cried two summers in a row on the very last day of the program because I didn’t want to leave my friends, and I was afraid of not seeing my counselors again. My counselors, including Timothy Frank Moore Parham, made a huge impact on my life. They helped me to believe in myself and to just be myself! Little did I know that this thing called “social media” would be a tool that would change how the world connects with each other. So, I was very glad that I was able to still connect with my friends and counselors via Facebook for mentoring, advice, or to catch up!

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

21^st Century Leaders helped me to understand that to become an effective leader you must be organized, a critical thinker, and a great listener. As a leader in my field, I use those skills daily. Being organized keeps me on track of my daily tasks. Being a great listener helps me to process how to effectively communicate an event, program, or an emergency to the community. It also allows for me to receive input from my staff who keep our department afloat with their innovative ideas. Having good critical thinking skills helps me to analyze, interpret, and evaluate any decision that I make that may benefit my organization.

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

Programs like 21^st Century Leaders are important because they are critical in the development of youth. Young people need to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who will encourage them to reach their goals and expose them to new opportunities. If it wasn’t for 21CL, my social skills would be lacking, my confidence would be low, and I wouldn’t know what it takes to be a leader. I encourage future students to get involved in 21^st Century Leaders or find similar programs that are committed to your personal and professional development.

Share the Inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Tony Nguyen

Anne Gahongayire — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 13:15:57 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Tony Nguyen
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2017
High School: Fayette County High School
College: Georgia State University
Current Role: Engagement Financial Advisory Consultant, Deloitte

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?

21^st Century Leaders transformed my understanding of leadership. The program exposed me to a variety of unique leadership styles and introduced me to many inspiring individuals. It played a pivotal role in allowing me to not only develop the leaders around me but also the leader within me.

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

I cherish all my memories with everyone in 21CL, so this is a hard question. One memory I particularly enjoy recalling is when I met my now good friend and business partner, Jalen Polk, for the first time. Even though we had never met before, we ended up talking throughout the night and into the morning, until Mr. T came knocking on the door. My first night at 21CL was actually a sleepless one, haha.

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

Absolutely. 21CL transformed the way I viewed leadership. During the Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI), there was a seminar where we brainstormed the creation of restaurants with one rule: to build on top of an idea rather than break it down. Every group’s restaurant was unique and extraordinary in its own way—some were underwater, some were in the air, and some were even in space. This exercise demonstrated the beauty of working together and that leadership acts as a catalyst to bring things to life that have not yet been born.

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

I believe programs like 21st Century Leaders are important because they give students the opportunity to explore and cultivate their own version of leadership. My advice to a current or future student would be to grow acquainted with uncertainty and failure. Uncertainty is what gives life its beauty, and failure is what gives success its meaning. Fall forward and fall fast, because you will never meet a strong person with an easy past.

Share your inspiration!