Alumni Spotlight: Ciera Walker

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 unfolded into working in social production and sports media. 21CL was a tremendous help in building my foundational skills within the media industry and navigating the challenges of career transitions. In college I participated in several organizations and held leadership positions; 21CL prepared me for those roles, giving me valuable experience in collaboration, teamwork, and project execution. 

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 Warner Bros. Discovery media camp was definitely an aha moment for me during my time at 21CL. I knew I had an interest in journalism, film, and entertainment, but the hands-on experience of learning the craft and hearing from industry leaders was just the confirmation I needed to pursue this path head on. 

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

21CL assisted me in becoming a well-rounded leader. Something I took from my time with 21CL is that no role is too small or unimportant. Whether working on a project, coming up with innovative ideas, or tackling an event, regardless of one’s role in the group, you matter and your contribution is important. That helped me to be the kind of leader that is comfortable spearheading a team, as well as listening and taking directions from others. I can adapt to whatever the current situation needs from me. 

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 youth and students need fun, interactive programs that teach them leadership skills while preparing them for college and potential career opportunities. My advice to current and future students is to soak up all the knowledge and wisdom 21CL has to offer because you’ll always need it. Stay connected to other 21CL leaders and the peers you meet during the program; you never know how you might be able to support one another throughout college and your career.