Alumni Spotlight: John Graves

21CL Alumnus John Graves is a graduate of Sonoraville High School (2018) and of the Georgia Institute of Technology (2022); he currently works as an Associate Consultant for Bain & Company. Throughout high school, John attended many of our student programs, was a 21CL Youth Ambassador and was one of our 2018 Georgia Youth Leadership Award winners. In his post, John shares how 21CL inspired him to accelerate his personal growth and find environments that encourage innovative thought among young people, and more!

Paint a brief picture about yourself and what you are doing now.

My name is John Graves and I graduated from Sonoraville High School in 2018. I spent the next 4 years getting my Bachelor of Science in Economics Degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. After graduating in May of 2022, I started working as an Associate Consultant for Bain & Company in their Atlanta office. In my free time I enjoy all things outdoors including running, cycling, backpacking, and helping out on my family’s farm.

When were you in high school and which 21CL programs did you participate in?

I attended Sonoraville High School in Gordon County from 2014-2018. I participated in the Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI@Goizueta) program at Emory University in 2015. I also was fortunate to serve on the 21st Century Leaders Youth Ambassador team from 2015-2016 and attend some fall / winter leadership summits. To end high school, I was honored to be a recipient of 21CL’s Georgia Youth Leadership Award in 2018.

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 full-time career is still just beginning, but my career preparation began quite a long time ago. My involvement in 21st Century Leaders during high school helped fuel my interest in exploring innovation through entrepreneurial leadership. As I built a business-focused leadership and communication toolkit throughout the program, I was exposed to the stories and ideas of Atlanta business leaders, 21CL alumni, and my peers. Seeing the true breadth of opportunity that young people have to innovate excited me as I heard stories of the successful students that had come before me. This immersive week inspired me to accelerate my personal growth in these areas by finding an environment that encouraged innovative thought amongst young people. That is how I ended up at Georgia Tech, and ultimately why I am at Bain & Company today.

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.?)

Attending the SYLI Summer Institute was an ‘aha’ moment for me in several big ways. First, as a high school freshman going into my sophomore year, I was able to learn about the college admissions process, how to challenge myself academically, and where to set my sights from my older, more prepared, student peers. Second, I was exposed to powerful stories of successful student-led nonprofits in Georgia that eventually inspired me to start a non-profit initiative in my hometown. Finally, and most importantly, I learned how impactful it is to surround yourself with people with unique interests, experiences, and goals to challenge your own. That summer at SYLI exposed me to all of these things and truly provided the direction behind much of my high school experience.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

I hope the groups that I have led over the years would agree with this, but I like to think 21st Century Leaders helped me become a more effective leader by emphasizing the importance of listening to others. In situations of leadership today, I enjoy the exercise of asking members of a group for their first take on how to deal with a problem or situation before I assert my own proposed path forward.

What advice would you give to a current or future student?

My advice to current and future students is simple. Enjoy friendships with people that have different backgrounds. There is so much to learn by surrounding yourself with diverse perspectives. Friends I made in 21CL programs all those years ago have had an enormous impact on my academic/career path.

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

Hard to do but I think I would use the three words, “our collective future,” because each of the students in programs I personally attended, and all of the program alumni, are on their way to change our generation’s shared future.

Alumni Spotlight: Sharlesha Bennett Kofa

Sharlesha Bennett Kofa is a graduate of Midtown High School (2009) and currently a third year Bachelor of Science Degree student at Clayton State University. She is a homeschooling mother of three beautiful children and works for Newton and Rockdale Counties, working on family and youth programs.  Sharlesha is passionate about community service and volunteering, and she was one of our alumni volunteers at 21st Century Leaders’ 2022 Leaderboard at The River Club Charity Golf Event!

“There is a saying that goes like, “You’re only as strong as your Network” and 21st Century Leaders taught me how to navigate professional environments and build those strong and lasting networks.” ~Sharlesha Bennett Kofa

Paint a brief picture about yourself and what you are doing now.

Currently, I am a third year Bachelor of Science Degree student at Clayton State University majoring in psychology and human services. Last fall I started working as an Intern for Newton County Family Connections in Covington, Georgia; I also work closely with the Newton/Rockdale County Suicide Prevention Coalition and the Newton County Substance Abuse Coalition. One of the most exciting things I am doing at the moment is assisting Newton County’s Youth Action Team on an annual Kick-The-Habit Prevention Event. It’s through my internship advisor that I was able to make great connections that have led me to several community outreach volunteer opportunities.

Outside of school and volunteering, I am very passionate about total mind and body wellness. I enjoy working out and reading lots of motivational uplifting books.

How did participating in 21CL transform you and lead you to where you are now?

I am naturally a very shy person but experiences gained from participating in 21st Century Leaders during my high school years helped me gain the confidence needed to step out of my comfort zone and put my best foot forward. At the time, I didn’t realize the kind of impact it would make on me but I can confidently say that I entered the “real” world knowing how to dress properly and conduct myself in professional settings. There is a saying that goes like, “You’re only as strong as your Network” and 21st Century Leaders taught me how to navigate professional environments and build those strong and lasting networks.

Which programs did you participate in? How did the skills/tools/perspectives you acquired from 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college, taking on new leadership roles in your community, college and after?

I participated in the Winter Leadership Weekend, now known as Goizueta Youth Leadership Summit, in 2008 and 2009. I also participated in the 21CLub at my school. Another important skill that I acquired and took with me to college and that has also been very beneficial is to be proactive and to take the initiative. Sometimes being the first person in a group setting to speak up and introducing yourself can make all the difference.

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 will never forget standing in front of a full room together with my group members and having to speak in public for the very first time. In one of those public speaking sessions, we had learned to try to minimize the number of times we say “umm,” so when we got on the podium I kept repeating in my head over and over again, “Do not say ‘Umm’,” and by the time it was my turn to speak I had almost forgotten what I was supposed to say; but I was still able to pull it together and my group did an amazing presentation.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? if so how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

Yes! I learned about community service and acquired great skills necessary for effective leadership, indeed “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!”

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Alumni Spotlight: Rosalba Mazzotta

Rosalba Mazzotta, is a graduate of Campbell High School (2020) and currently a 3rd-year Biochemical Engineering student at the University of Georgia who intends to pursue a Double Dawgs accelerated master’s in Biochemical Engineering researching the combustion of Biofuels under Dr. Brandon Rotavera. She serves as president of the UGA Chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and as a College of Engineering student ambassador. In 2022, she worked as a decarbonization intern at General Electric- Gas Power. During high school Rosalba participated in several of 21CL programs. “I want to say that the school you go to doesn’t matter as much as what you do there. What does matter most is the community that you build and what you do with them. Finding a place where you can grow and have access to opportunities is very important.” ~Rosalba’s advice to high school students

Paint a brief picture about yourself and what you are doing now.

I am a 3rd-year Biochemical Engineering student at the University of Georgia. I intend to pursue a Double Dawgs accelerated master’s in Biochemical Engineering researching the combustion of Biofuels under Dr. Brandon Rotavera. I serve as president of the UGA Chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and as a College of Engineering student ambassador and in 2022, I worked as a decarbonization intern at General Electric- Gas Power.

When were you in high school and which 21CL programs did you participate in?

I graduated from Campbell High School in Smyrna (2020) and during my high school years, I participated in several 21CL programs including: the Summer Youth Leadership Institute at Goizueta School of Business-Emory University in 2017, the Fall Summit-Leadership exCHANGE of 2018 and Goizueta Youth Leadership Summit in 2020.

How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CLhelp prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?

21CL taught me about the importance of mentorship. When I started going to UGA, the first thing that I did was register for the Mentor Program and join AIChE. My mentor worked for GE so in addition to receiving guidance on surviving my degree program, I learned more about the culture, and thanks to her influence I applied to my first internship there. At GE, I had to use several skills that I started to cultivate at SYLI- the biggest one is networking and talking to adults. My role and these skills put me in contact with people as important as one of the Vice Presidents for GE-Gas Power Americas who now knows my name AND my face.

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 from 21CL is the Business Case Study competition during the 2020 Winter Summit also known as Goizueta Youth Leadership Summit, I won a mug from earning third place with my team- how could I forget it? More than that, 21CL gave me a chance to practice problem-solving working with absolute strangers. During this training, I found out that I like the process of putting together a solution and figuring out how to present it. I’m not job-hunting yet, but when I get there I will be looking for a job where I can combine my passion for public speaking with technical knowledge.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? if so, how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

The most important thing about leadership that I learned during 21CL trainings and as a type-A person was to make space for quieter people. I have no problem speaking up, and in a group of people it is easy to lose the contributions of quieter people. I do my best to give others the space to talk and it has resulted in some great ideas!

What advice would you give to a current or future student?

With college admissions coming up, I want to say that the school you go to doesn’t matter as much as what you do there. What does matter most is the community that you build when you get to college and what you do with them. Finding a place where you can grow and have access to opportunities is very important. I however know that there are many things I would not have done if I were at a different school. Also, if you’re into science and engineering, visit UGA college of engineering for a tour!

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

Inspiring, dedicated, interesting

Alumni Spotlight: Alani Pace

Alani Pace, a graduate of Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts (2020), is currently a junior at North Carolina A&T State University majoring in Computer Graphics Technology. During high school Alani participated in several of our programs including the Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI) @ Goizueta, Turner Voices Youth Media Institute now known as Warner Bros Discovery Future Leaders Institute  and the fall summit: Leadership ExCHANGE. Last summer (2022), Alani served on the 21CL Summer Leadership Team helping to mentor the participating students during their own summer leadership institute experience. “I still feel nervous about doing some things, but I do it anyway. I do it even though I am scared, and I have been rewarded greatly for pushing myself out my comfort zone and taking advantage of the opportunities that scared me.” ~Alani Pace

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am now a junior in college majoring in computer graphics technology with a concentration in user experience (UX) design. I am a member of several organizations on campus and I enjoy volunteering with them in my free time. I am a member of the university honors program and serve as an honors ambassador. As an ambassador, I also serve as a mentor for 5 freshman honors students. Outside of school, I am working hard to strengthen my design skills and have enrolled in a bootcamp with the Georgia Institute of Technology. I’ve enjoyed attending professional conferences, such as the Thurgood Marshall Leadership Institute, and getting to network with seasoned professionals as I get closer to graduating college. I just accepted my first internship in my chosen field and I look forward to growing my professional portfolio during the summer 2023.

How did participating in 21CL transform you and lead you to where you are now?

I can confidently attribute a lot of my success in college to participating in 21CL as a teen. The skills and experiences I gained with 21CL have helped me tremendously. I went to college with a working knowledge of how to conduct myself in a professional environment, network and build professional relationships, and deliver my own personal elevator pitch during interviews and meetings with others.

Which programs did you participate in? How did the skills/tools/perspectives you acquired from 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college, taking on new leadership roles in your community, college and after?

I attended the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute when it was still active, and followed that with SYLI before graduating high school. Last summer I served as a Summer Staff for 21CL’s Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI) and led my own group of approximately 20 students through their programs. I was able to apply that experience to my role as an honors ambassador almost immediately when school started this fall. Managing the 5 students I have now is a breeze compared to planning programs and guiding a full classroom of students. Involvement in 21CL requires you to step into leadership positions and be creative professionally. I draw upon that experience in my collaborations on group projects and with volunteer groups, and I know that I can take the skills I’ve learned to the workforce.

Do you have a memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

When I attended the media institute, that is the first time I spoke publicly in front of a large group of people. When I first learned that I had to speak I did my best to avoid having a speaking role. I almost made it through the entire week without being selected to speak, which my counselors realized. So on the last day I had to speak in front of not only the students but also their families at the closing ceremony. I was nervous but I overcame an obstacle that I never thought I would. I got over my anxiety and from there, something in me shifted. I still feel nervous about doing some things, but I do it anyway. I do it even though I am scared, and I have been rewarded greatly for pushing myself out my comfort zone and taking advantage of the opportunities that scared me.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? if so how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

21CL helped me find my voice and feel comfortable sharing my knowledge with others. I always keep in mind that someone might be nervous about stepping out in front of others so I do my best to create a safe space. I was a trainer at my job at Chick-Fil-A, and I always made sure to be patient and to share best practices so that new employees could thrive. I think good leaders invite everyone to contribute and that is what I bring to the spaces I’m fortunate enough to occupy.

Alumni Spotlight: Nigel Washington

Nigel Washington, a graduate of Chamblee Charter High School (2011) and of Bard College (2015), is an entrepreneur who owns a video production company known as Means of Production. While in high school Nigel participated in two of our summer leadership institutes. He recently volunteered and donated his time and services during the 2022 Fall Summit!  “The leadership skills I gained through 21CL gave me the foundation and the confidence to start my own business and become a community leader .” ~Nigel Washington

Paint a brief picture about yourself and what you are doing now

I currently own and operate a video production company, Means of Production LLC. which creates video and social media content for different organizations including DeKalb County Television, DeKalb Entertainment Commission, God Is Dope, and many more. I started this business in 2017 after graduating from college and being frustrated by not being able to find a job in the media industry.

When were you in high school and which 21CL programs did you participate in?

I went to Chamblee Charter High School from 2008-2011 and I participated in two 21CL summer leadership institutes, the G5 (currently known as the Summer Youth Leadership Institute @ Goizueta Business School at Emory University) and the “Leadership: Plugged In” (currently known as Warner Bros. Discovery Future Leaders Institute) at Georgia Institute of Technology; they both had great impact on me!

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?

The leadership skills I gained through 21CL gave me the foundation and the confidence to start my own business and become a community leader via my involvement with organizations like The Posse Foundation and the Decatur Business Association. Through the 21CL trainings I was inspired to pursue a film degree in college and to create my own media company; and while applying for college scholarships, 21st Century Leaders stood out on my resume and helped me obtain the Posse Full-Tuition Leadership Scholarship to Bard College; so, my benefits from 21st Century Leaders are many!

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.?)

It’s more than 10 years since I attended 21CL programs so I don’t remember all the details but what stuck out was a speech I heard from a speaker at one of the institutes. She told us that we all have a unique story and if we look back on our life at what we were naturally attracted to as a child, this could lead us to our true passions and gifts that we could utilize in our professional life!

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

21CL taught me to be authentic and confident no matter how uncomfortable it may feel! When you are authentic and confident it inspires other people to also be their authentic selves and it makes the world a much better place for all.

What advice would you give to a current or future student?

I would give the same advice I received during my 21CL days- look back on your life growing up and see what you were naturally drawn to and it will help you find your passion in life.

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

FEELS SO GOOD!

Alumni Spotlight: Morgan Hodgkinson

Morgan Hodgkinson, a graduate of Collins Hill High School (2017) and of University of Georgia (2021) works for SeamonWhiteside as a Civil Design Engineer. She participated in EarthCare Summer Leadership Institute while in high school. “We learned how to make other people feel included. That was the first time I realized how different people’s values and needs were in relationships and how to pick up on those values in conversations.” ~Morgan Hodgkinson

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am a civil design engineer in Charleston, South Carolina. My company, SeamonWhiteside, specializes in designing innovative spaces that enrich lives and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

I graduated from the University of Georgia with an Environmental Engineering degree. While in college I was a research engineer for the USDA ARS and also performed research under Dr. Jenna Jambeck regarding the effects of plastic pollution in rivers and in landfills.

How did participating in 21CL transform you and lead you to where you are now?

21CL gave me the opportunity to learn soft skills that school did not teach me and provided me the opportunity to practice these new skills in an inclusive setting.

There are many distinct memories where the skills I learned during 21CL came useful. The coolest experience was when I was representing the undergraduate student population at The University of Georgia for the annual Board of Regents Conference where I spoke on my research and the impact it would have on the environment. Presidents of various colleges and universities across the state came up to me impressed with my public speaking and my networking skills. Without 21CL I wouldn’t have been comfortable in that situation.

Which programs did you participate in? How did the skills/tools/perspectives you acquired from 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college, taking on new leadership roles in your community, college and after?

I participated in EarthCare the summer of 2016. Prior to that summer leadership institute, I had an interest in the environment but I didn’t understand how many unique careers were in the industry. EarthCare gave me the opportunity to learn soft skills like how to give a proper handshake, public speaking tips and networking. Little did I know at the time, it showed me my future career path. I believe in order to achieve greatness, you have to have confidence in yourself and 21CL taught me just that.

Do you have a memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

I remember the session about learning how different personalities work together. Everyone took a leadership personality quiz and got a color band. We learned how to make other people feel included. That was the first time I realized how different people’s values and needs were in relationships and how to pick up on those values in conversations.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

Yes! Leadership in my mind focuses on 2 main categories: being aware of your surroundings and being confident in your actions. Most sessions during the leadership institute focused on how to build these categories. Another thing I have learned about leadership recently is being in the right mindset. “Optimism drives the world forward.”

Alumni Spotlight: Brandon Ona

Brandon Ona, a 21CL alumnus and Junior Board of Directors member was the keynote speaker at our 10th Charity Golf Outing on Tuesday, October 18th, 2022. He is a graduate of Mill Creek High School (2012) and of The George Washington University (2016). Since graduating high school, he has pursued a career in public service working with government entities to help everyday people live more fulfilling lives. He currently serves as Director of Business Services, Office of Workforce Development at Technical College Services of Georgia. Brandon credits 21CL for helping him learn to lead with curiosity, leveraging diversity and maintaining a service-oriented attitude at an early age. His leadership style is centered on learning people’s stories and figuring out how he can be of service to them, or work with them to be of service to others! Brandon volunteers regularly in most of our programs and has volunteered and helped to fundraise at each of our golf fundraisers for the last five years. Following are excerpts from his speech at this year’s Charity Golf Outing at The River Club in Suwanee, GA.

What drives you to give back to 21st Century Leaders as a Junior Board member and at special events like the golf event?

I have been coming to 21st Century Leaders’ Leaderboard golf outing for five years now, and when I think about what really brings me back every year, I think it’s probably the same for all of you who support this organization. While highlights, it’s not necessarily the bacon, or the beautiful golf course, or getting to be away from the office for a day— okay I’ll be honest it’s all those things. But, most importantly it’s about the incredible mission that 21st Century Leaders has, and how it changes the lives of young people every year. I know that very well because of how it changed the course of my life all those years ago and continues to do so today.

I grew up in Gwinnett County, Georgia, but what most people don’t know is how my family and I got there. When I was a kid, we moved from Florida because my father lost his job, and with that, we lost just about everything and had to start over. When I asked my parents why we had to leave, they told me the same thing my father was told when he was my age and moved to this country from the Philippines—Opportunity. For much of my childhood, I was confused about what exactly opportunity meant because everything always felt so uncertain. I spent many nights watching my parents staring off at dinner wondering how bills will be paid and hoping the electricity or God forbid the cable won’t be shut off before their sons wake up in the morning.  Despite all of that, they had my brother and I absolutely convinced that we could do anything because here there was opportunity. And they were right. That opportunity came in many forms. I’m very grateful for that. One of the best forms was in 21st Century Leaders. When, as a high schooler, my parents dropped me off at Georgia Tech’s campus and I learned how to not only lead change in my life, but most importantly in other people’s lives. I can honestly say that from the moment I stepped onto that campus, and was welcomed by the incredible 21CL staff, my world opened! See that’s the thing that never changes about 21CL — the feeling of opportunity that fills the room when young people of different backgrounds come together to share what they all have in common — A hope for something better for those around them.

Give us an update on what you’re doing now and how you got there?

It’s true watching my father lose his job and moving to Georgia and learning the very foreign language of a southern accent was a bit tough, but kind of like the young people we are supporting today, that kid was transformed into something greater.

Today, I oversee the State of Georgia’s workforce development programs, nearly $50M in investments to make sure everyone in this state, especially those that lost their job, have access to opportunity though education and job training. I wake up every day grateful to this state and organization, because I get to work to fulfill the promise that brought my family here in the first place: that no matter where you came from or who you are, there is a pathway to success through opportunity and hard work.

And, in so many ways this ties back to all of the people who have given back to 21st  Century Leaders and the support they have given over the years.

What has it been like volunteering and interacting with the students now as a young professional and alumni?

I’m going to be honest, these past couple of years interviewing and talking with the young leaders in 21CL programs have been particularly tough. I see the students that were just like me when I was in high school, carrying an immense burden of growing up in uncertain times. In many ways, it’s almost the same feeling I had when I was their age, navigating an environment I never knew existed. There’s a silver lining though. I also get to see them a couple of months later as they become 21CL alumni, transformed into something so much greater. Their world changed. They see a new version of themselves, and a new version of each other! But in this case, they aren’t waiting to take on the challenges of life. They are already doing remarkable things, from building small businesses, to being election poll workers, health advocates, and quite literally rebuilding the communities around them in more ways than imaginable. My favorite thing every month is to read the alumni blog spotlights that Anne posts on the 21CL website. You can view more here.

What’s your message to those reading this?

I’d like you to go to someone in your family, friends, or coworkers and tell them that the future is in good hands, better hands. You’re going to pause and wait for them to ask you why. Well maybe they won’t, but you’ll still tell them because I told you to. You’ll tell them the future is in good hands because of 21st Century Leaders.

You’ll tell them about the young people that do remarkable things, and how their success will lead to a better future for all of us. What we know to be true is that in a matter of time, 21CL alumni will be leading your companies, protecting you and your family’s health, telling your stories, innovating the technology we use, and protecting the world around us.

On behalf of 21st Century Junior Board of Directors, and the 21CL alumni, thank you for your support.

Alumni Spotlight: Kristin Strother

Our Alumni Spotlight for October 2022 is Kristin Strother! A graduate of Young Americans Christian School (2016) and of Georgia Southern University (2020), Kristin currently works for Mercedes-Benz USA as Critical Parts Coordinator; she loves volunteering and was at our 2022 Charity Golf Outing! While in high school Kristin participated in many of 21CL’s programs. “It was a new experience and not like any I had ever had before. I learned how to network, make friends and ask questions. These are skills that I carried with me and have helped me a great deal in where I am today.” – Kristin Strother

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

My name is Kristin Strother. I was born and raised in Georgia and graduated with a BBA in Information Systems from Georgia Southern University. Currently, I work for Mercedes-Benz USA as Critical Parts Coordinator in the Parts Logistics department. My role is pretty data-focused which consists of  managing the database, analyzing the data and communicating my findings in order to facilitate data-driven decisions.

How did participation in 21CL transform you and lead you to where you are now?

21CL was my first big interview process. It showed me that I could get through an interview and that interviews weren’t always scary. I participated in a summer program that was my first time away from home in a facility that wasn’t a cabin or camping. I had to carry myself in a professional setting, manage my own time, and reach out to others on my own. I believe that going through the 21CL process provided me with the confidence in myself that has carried me through to where I am today and where I will go in the future.

Which programs did you participate in? How did the skills/tools/perspectives you acquired from 21CL prepare you for your next steps?

In 2014, I participated in Leadership Unplugged: A CNN Experience (now called the Warner Bros. Discovery Future Leaders Institute), [a 21CL service project cleaning up the] Atlanta Beltline, and other workshops that were held. It was a new experience and not like any I had ever had before. I learned how to network, make friends and ask questions. These are skills that I carried with me and have helped me a great deal in where I am today. In hindsight, I guess the biggest lesson I learned was how to make myself heard. I listened through all of the sessions with the professionals and had conversations at the end. When I needed clarity, I asked a question. This main lesson is what guided me through all of the experiences and opportunities I’ve had thus far.

Did you have a memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL?

I remember going to my interview at Georgia Tech and being so nervous. Then, I was sitting in there with all the other kids thinking of what questions they might ask and how I might answer them, and then I remember someone asking a question like ‘Can you walk like a duck’ or something like that. Funny thing is, the management team at the company I’m at now asks off-the-wall questions like that all the time. Maybe not to walk like a duck, but something that throws off the monotony of being in a serious environment and helps people to relax. Anyway, I got to meet so many people, both peers and professionals with different backgrounds; we all landed in the same room. I loved just conversing and listening to all the people and I made some really great friends!

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please Share!

21st Century Leaders has great programs and it empowered me with leadership skills at an early age.  Skills such as networking, listening, communication, on-your-feet problem solving, and letting go didn’t resonate with me until I attended the 21CL Summer Leadership Institute in 2014; and it wasn’t until I was navigating through college, working, balancing my own schedule, and job hunting that I realized the power that those lessons actually held. So, I would say yes, 21CL assisted in making me an effective leader.

Many new principles about leadership have been presented to me along the way, however, there are two things that are prevalent in my mind. One is learning to let go of control. Let go, but not too much. Allow other people to help you and if something isn’t done exactly the way you would do it, it’s okay. The second is sometimes the other person is just going to be upset…no matter what. I struggle with this one a lot. I’m such a people pleaser and love to make everyone happy, but sometimes it’s just not possible. You will hold yourself, and sometimes your team, back by trying to please every person.

Alumni Spotlight: Timothy Parham

Timothy Parham is our alumni spotlight today! Tim is a graduate of Central High School (2004) and of Reinhardt University (2010). He first joined 21st Century Leaders in 2001 as a rising sophomore in high school and has been serving with 21st Century Leaders since 2006, first on the Summer Leadership Team and then later as a Summer Institute Director since 2018. As of September 2022, he is a full time 21CL staff member, serving as the Director of Programs and Operations! “21CL solidified my passion for helping others and gave me the foundational skills of youth development.” – Tim Parham

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I recently started working with 21st Century Leaders as the Director of Programs and Operations. I began my journey with the organization as a rising high school sophomore in 2001 and to have the opportunity to oversee its programs 20 years later is an honor. I am still soaking it all in!

I am also the founder of The MAP Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to equip young men ages 12-22 with a support system to achieve their goals and become self-sufficient adults. I started The MAP Foundation because I know how it feels to want to achieve a goal but need guidance and genuine support. I love the fact that I can utilize my skills and resources to support the next generation.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, performing on the stage, and traveling.

Which programs did you participate in? How did the skills/tools/perspectives you acquired from 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college, taking on new leadership roles in your community, college and after?

I started my journey with 21st Century Leaders in 2001 and during that time it was different from what it has grown to be now. Mr. Bob Watson, the founding Executive Director, had an active role and I always loved listening to his leadership speeches.  He had the confidence in public speaking that I wanted to have. He also always made every student feel special. I learned a critical lesson from those times: the art of building relationships. I’ve used that skill in every new opportunity I’ve been given.

How did participating in 21CL transform you and lead you to where you are now?

21CL solidified my passion for helping others and gave me the foundational skills of youth development. What I learned as a student and while working as a class facilitator during the Summer Leadership Institutes led me to work with YELLS, Inc. for seven years, in all its three programs-Mentoring, Community Action Café, and the Afterschool Program. After, I worked with Communities in Schools of Georgia, where I had a caseload of more than 100 students. This is when I learned a valuable lesson about the importance of data and how it can be used to accelerate student growth.

I believe that the skills I have accumulated along the way have prepared me for my current leadership role serving as the Director of Programs and Operations at 21st Century Leaders.

Do you have a memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

I have lots of 21CL memorable moments! The first was as a student attending one of the programs and realizing that leadership has many definitions.  My opportunity to lead came when asked to publicly speak and at the time, standing in front of a group of people and speaking had always been a challenge for me. After that I got the opportunity to work with the summer staff for the first time. Over the years, I’ve figured out that it’s when you are vulnerable that you are your most authentic self and that’s what people remember.

Another ‘aha’ moment I had was when I realized that networking really works.  I will never forget Jeremy Foreman, one of the 21CL summer staff during my high school years. He had the kind of energy that was contagious. He was just a joy to be around and our relationship grew when I came back as a summer staff.  When I got to the point in college where I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do as a career. I reached out to a lot of people for support and guidance. He was the only one that responded and he introduced me to a person that changed my life. Her name is Dr. Tamara Harper. The networking skills that I learned from 21CL gave me the opportunity to travel the world singing with the Atlanta Opera.

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so , how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

Yes! Over the years I have gained so many jewels that I use daily. I learned that using the 3 C’s of communication, cooperation, and compassion is not just a leadership tactic that 21CL exposes but it should be a lifestyle. Out of the three, the one that I use the most is compassion. I love to motivate people to be the best version of themselves.

In addition, being a part of 21CL always reminds me that great leaders are always great followers of other great leaders. I have had so many leaders I looked up to that paved the way for me to be the Director of Programs for 21CL and I am determined to use all skills that I have learned over the years and impact the world.

 

Alumni Spotlight: Ashley Carter

21CL Alumna Ashley Carter is a graduate of Midtown High School (2016), of University Of Georgia (2020) and headed back to University of Georgia for her PMBA, She currently works as a Software Instructor for Blackbaud and has previously worked as a multimedia journalist in Atlanta, Georgia. Ashley enjoys volunteering and uplifting others and believes that growth and learning never end.  “When I was at a low point in my life during high school, I remember joining the 21CLUB at my school. We gave back to the community, got to hear from different speakers, gaining life lessons at each meeting and grew as leaders. Eventually I joined the 21CLub’s leadership because I felt better overall while uplifting others.” – Ashley Carter

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am a software instructor for a technology company called Blackbaud. I train hundreds of accountants each month, from non-profits around the world, how to navigate and use Blackbaud’s software solution, Financial Edge NXT. I previously worked in television news in Atlanta and Myrtle Beach. The skills I utilized in the news business have been essential to me striving and growing in my role.

Which programs did you participate in? How did the skills/tools/perspectives you acquired from 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college, taking on new leadership roles in your community, college and after?

The 21st Century Leaders community is unmatched! When I was at a low point in my life during high school, I remember joining the 21CLUB at my school. We gave back to the community, got to hear from different speakers, gaining life lessons at each meeting, and grew as leaders. Eventually I joined the 21CLub’s leadership because I felt better overall while uplifting others, as I was growing into womanhood. Those strong values of service have been instilled in me. Ms. Van Atta (the 21CLub Advisor) at Midtown High School played a key role by taking us in as we were and never judged. That made my time in the club so much nicer! I later got to attend one of the 21CL Summer Leadership Institutes, Leadership Unplugged: A CNN Experience, currently known as Future Leaders Institute – an experience I will never forget! That week was so fun and insightful, and it’s a huge reason I went on to study journalism at the University of Georgia! Those skills I gained from that camp are still used up to today even in my current role. On top of all of that, the friends I have made during my 21CL days are still in my life!

Do you have a memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

Something I will never forget about 21st Century Leaders is when I was home one summer, following my senior year of high school and after an internship ended abruptly; I called 21st Century Leaders’ office to see if they had work that I could help with. They immediately created a position for me, and during that summer I got a real world work experience before college! I got to see behind the scenes of how tough their work is to support thousands of high school students, yet the staff does it with such grace. I knew from that point forward, that 21st Century Leaders’ mission was bigger than just programs and meetings… it is truly to make a better tomorrow! I will never forget that!

Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how? And have you recently learned something else about leadership? Please share!

Overall, in each role I have held, I can adapt and pivot quickly. I also have been commended for taking feedback and promptly applying that to my workflows to make outcomes greater.  Something I have learned through 21st Century Leaders is that it is important to adapt to continue growing. Growth and learning never end. I also know, as I continue to elevate, it is important to reach back to uplift others. Community service continues to be at the center of my life! I am so grateful for that.