Name: Kennedy Camp
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2020
High School: South Cobb High School
College: The University of Georgia (2024); MPH (2025)
Current Role: Public Health Community Outreach & Communication Strategist
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 participated in 21st Century Leaders’ summer programs in 2018 and 2019—first in SYLI, then in Turner Voices Youth Media Institute. These experiences prepared me for college by equipping me with foundational leadership skills that helped me step into meaningful roles within my community and university. 21CL gave me the confidence to explore new experiences, such as studying abroad and pushing myself beyond my comfort zone. Now that I am a postgrad, I feel confident entering this next chapter knowing I have the support and network that 21CL offers.
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 moment that stands out to me is when we would recite the chant: “I’m alive, awake, alert, and motivated.” At the time, I didn’t think much of it, but I still remember that affirmation to this day. It taught me the importance of positive self-talk as a leader and how staying motivated helps you show up as your best self when new opportunities arise.
Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?
21CL helped to give me a vision of what was possible for me in terms of career paths and gave me the confidence needed to take up space in some of those corporate settings. Having the opportunity to network and present to executives at a young age is an opportunity that not a lot people get to have. This organization helped me to become a better leader by leading from a place of authenticity and servitude.
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 incredibly important. I still maintain friendships and relationships I formed through the program. Surrounding yourself with like-minded, driven peers early on can be transformative. It’s never too early to start planning your career and exploring your interests. Even though I ultimately chose a path different from the areas I focused on in my 21CL programs, the experience helped me narrow down what I truly wanted to pursue. Regardless of which 21CL program you attend, you gain essential soft skills—teamwork, leadership, grit, and public speaking—that will support you in any field. My advice to students is to take the networking opportunities seriously. People are eager to support you at this stage, and you never know how one connection could help shape your future.
