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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 plus, I met many likeminded individuals that have become friends/connections for life.
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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
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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!
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I participated in 21st Century Leaders programs that prepared me and gave me social and professional skills needed to be successful in any room. Some of those takeaways include how to dress for success, how to interview, and even proper etiquette for professional events. The leadership skills I learned have stayed with me up to now, and I have been able to influence others along the way.
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