Effective Leaders – 21st Century Leaders

Alumni Spotlight: April Moss

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

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: Philip Musey, Jr.

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 18:10:51 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2010’s Decade
Name: Philip Musey, Jr.
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2012
High School: Parkview High School
College: Harvard University
Current Role: Founder/Principal, Lightmile Media

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 a thrilling whirlwind of twists and turns. I’ve worked in finance, consulting, and in the creative arts, and have had exposure to several different sectors as a strategist, from media/entertainment to retail to nonprofits and more. The most valuable tool that I’ve been able to bring to the table in each of these fields is my tolerance for ambiguity. 21st Century Leaders exposed me to counselors, community leaders, and business professionals who led organizations through tough times with integrity, grace, and compassion, despite not always having 100% complete information. I think this instilled in me a willingness to lean into uncertainty, and to remain true to myself when leading teams through challenging times.

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 distinctly remember interviewing for the 21CL Youth Board, currently known as Youth Ambassadors, at the offices of Alston & Bird in Atlanta in the summer of 2011. It was a group interview with some of the Board members of 21CL. I was sitting amongst a group of wildly talented peers, who were all highly effective communicators, compassionate/community-minded citizens, and just all-around down-to-earth people. My “aha” in that moment, was that my generation’s (and the generations that follow) potential is boundless. Our group conversation reinforced to me that we’re poised to take on the most difficult issues of our time, across all fields. That interview instilled a spirit in me of never “going it alone,” so to speak, and to always ensure that whatever team I’m fortunate enough to lead has space and safety to bring new ideas to the table.

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

I think 21CL helped me understand the connection between effective communication and effective leadership. A leader’s vision is only as effective as his/her ability to express it. I’ve always cared immensely about language (both written and spoken). 21CL gave me frameworks (i.e., the elevator pitch, the cold call, extemporizing, etc.) that helped me channel my sometimes-scattered thoughts into a coherent vision. Notably, my experiences with 21CL fortified my confidence as a public speaker and encouraged me to raise my hand eagerly for public speaking opportunities throughout my 20’s.

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

Programs like 21CL have a highly measurable impact on the lives of the students that participate in them. At an early age, I was exposed to people who shaped my vision of who I could become. They say if you can see it, you can be it. Well, throughout my time with 21CL, I saw filmmakers and executives and public servants and artists and lawyers and television anchors and more. The leaders I met through 21CL made me feel like the world was a blank book, and that I was free to write whatever I wanted in the chapters that followed. I’m so grateful for 21CL taking an interest in me. And for all current and future 21CL students, I would say, pay it forward. Take an interest in others. Have a coffee or a phone call with others coming up behind you. Pass on your knowledge and experiences. It’s the most surefire way of making the world a better place.

BONUS: View Philip’s Tedx Talk (Brookwood Community College) titled “Garrett Morgan & The Spirit of Black Entrepreneurship.” Philip and fellow 21CL Alumnus Cabral Clements have produced an award-winning short film about black inventor Garrett Morgan, which is a foundation for further media production.

Share the Inspiration!

Alumni Spotlight: Jasmine Tillman Bradley

Anne Gahongayire — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:18:16 +0000

35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight

2000’s Decade
Name: Jasmine Tillman Bradley
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2008
High School: Midtown High School
College: Agnes Scott College
Current Role: Training & Associate Engagement Specialist, AMB Sports and Entertainment

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?

21CL has been an integral part of my career journey since 10^th grade. Once I went to college at Agnes Scott, I was close in proximity to the 21CL office and Zeena Regis, who is an Agnes Scott alum and was Program Manager at 21CL during my time, helped me to get my first summer job with 21CL. I gained really valuable work experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity. Having worked so many summers for 21CL, in 2015 they called me to come work full-time as a Program Manager and it was really my first “real” job in a sense where I was fully immersed into the operations of 21CL day to day. From being a student to summer staff member and then full-time employee really showed me how powerful networking and relationship-building is to your career and leadership. Since 21CL, my career has been a series of jumps in various learning and development spaces, and 21CL helped me to find that career path.

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 have so many moments just being with the organization for over 15 years now so it is hard to pick one. I think a lot of the memorable moments were once I became a summer RA and was working with Michael Carter, Tim Parham, Mary Van Atta and so many others – people who were MY summer staff team when I was in high school. It was a full circle moment to be able to work alongside them! My other memorable moments come from seeing college students who still remember me and remind me of the positive impact I had on them. I also met one of my best friends at 21CL and we are still close to this day.

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

I would say the leadership style I gained from 21CL is that in fact, there is no one style that creates an effective leader. There are characteristics that make an effective leader, Bob used to talk about these all the time, the three Cs of leadership. As I have navigated through my career, leadership style changes based on the environment, and a good leader always is able to change and adapt to situations.

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 important because they prepare students to position themselves as leaders early enough and before they enter their careers and industries. As someone who coaches adults in the same skills taught in 21CL, these skills are important to introduce early and often so that they are prepared for the future. A piece of advice I would give to a current or future student is that you must prepare for tomorrow, today. Whether you become an entrepreneur or work for a company, there is a certain skillset that 21CL and leadership development can offer that will help propel you to success. It sounds very cliché, but having these skills and the network of 21CL will put you in places you cannot imagine.

Share the inspiration!