Alumni Spotlight: Lauren Flanigan

Lauren Flanigan is a graduate of Miller Grove High School (2011) and of the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business (2015). She currently works as Brand Manager at Mondelez International and she volunteers regularly in areas of education and mentorship. In this post, Lauren  shares about her leadership journey and how 21CL taught her to be confident and to voice her perspective even when it’s different from the group’s, which she says is a foundation for good leadership. She describes herself as a collaborative, empowering and daring leader!

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am currently working as a Brand Manager at Mondelez International. Thus far, I have enjoyed a thriving career at Mondelez, receiving multiple promotions in my 4 years at the company. I also recently graduated from the Mondelez International Leadership Essentials Program and was selected by Mondelez to participate in the 2019 Google Insider Program (an invitation-only program designed to educate and inspire rising stars in the industry). During my time at Mondelez, I have been lucky enough to work on several of Mondelez’s brands, including Trident gum, Sour Patch Kids, Swedish Fish, Belvita, Oreo Chocolate, Toblerone, Nilla Wafers, and Nutter Butter, just to name a few! In my current role, I am responsible for developing and executing the brand strategy, activation and media plans for Trident gum.

In my spare time, I enjoy volunteer work, particularly in the areas of education and mentorship. I have volunteered in these spaces formally and informally and recently completed a two-year volunteer commitment with America Needs You. I am also an avid reader, fitness enthusiast, and candle-maker. For fun, I enjoy travel, wine tasting and spending time with friends and family.

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

21CL was my first exposure to the world of Media. I distinctly remember the CNN studio visit, where I first learned about media and production. I was totally enamored with all the moving parts and people that went into bringing something to the screen. It was the first time I started to think differently about the process of creation and the way that brands played a role in this ecosystem. After graduating the program, I went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. From there, I took on several internships, including internships at Turner Broadcasting and Kick Ass Productions, where I learned more about Media and media’s connection to branding. This eventually led me to learn about career opportunities in brand management, which I ended up pursuing and absolutely loving! In my current role, media and production play a major part in my day to day responsibilities. I lead the production of commercials for the brands I work on and work closely with media partners to ensure our brands show up on the right platforms. To think, it really all started with the spark 21CL ignited!

How did 21CL prepare you for your next steps? Going into college and taking on leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc. What skills/tools/perspectives have helped you along the way?

In addition to the career exposure, 21CL prepared me for college and professional life by helping me to hone my leadership skills. 21CL helped me to gain confidence in public speaking and networking, both of which play large roles in my current profession (such as my recent presentation to over 600 of Mondelez’s sales force at our National Sales Meeting). Additionally, 21CL emphasized the importance of keeping these skills in practice. That emphasis influenced me to take on leadership roles during college, such as Vice President of Recruiting for my sorority of 200+ girls, and in the workforce, where I currently serve as the President of the Mondelez International African American Council. 

  Which programs did you participate in, and when? What skills did you gain or improve through those programs?

 I participated in 21st Century Leaders: Leadership Unplugged (now Youth Media Institute) as a sophomore in high school in 2009. As aforementioned, I definitely gained a lot of confidence from the program. Particularly in public speaking and networking.

 What was a memorable or ‘aha’ moment in 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

My memorable “aha” was spending part of the summer away from family and friends to focus on my development. This was a first for me, and was something that I continued to do in the summers and years to come. It helped me to become more comfortable with being uncomfortable and forced me out of my comfort zone. It helped me to learn that I can stand on my own, which is an important leadership value. In learning that I can stand on my own, I’ve had the confidence to have and voice my own perspective, even if it’s different from the group. This is an important skill and is a foundation pillar of good leadership.

 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 would describe my leadership style as collaborative, empowering, and daring. I believe that good leaders should be daring enough to have and share their own perspective, even if that means going against the grain. I also believe that a good leader empowers others to do the same and then collaborates with the team to bring those perspectives together. 21CL does a great job of emphasizing collaboration and learning from others. Today, there’s more diversity of thought, background, and perspective than ever! When leveraged properly, this increased emphasis on, and pool of, diversity is a huge asset for leaders and organizations. 21CL helped me to understand this value very early on and has helped shape the leadership style that I have today.

Alumni Spotlight: Jared D. Howard

Jared. D. Howard is a graduate of Redan High School (2013), of Georgia State University (2017) and currently a graduate student at Belhaven University (2020); he works as Admissions Specialist at Morehouse School of Medicine. Jared describes himself as an actor, dancer, and singer who is making waves throughout the entertainment scene in  Atlanta, Georgia and he says that 21CL inspired him in many ways. He says it transformed him to be more vocal and assertive and helped him realize that one can never stop growing. 

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.
After obtaining my undergraduate degree in Theater performance from Georgia State University, I hit the ground running toward my calling. I work as Admissions Specialist at Morehouse School of Medicine and I spend most evenings and weekends rehearsing, filming, performing or auditioning for various projects. Most recently I was blessed with the opportunity to perform with the Marietta Theatre Company in their rendition of the musical comedy “Altar Boyz” and I am now rehearsing for my second stage musical of the year “HYPE!: The 90’s R&B Musical” with Yash Productions. I am currently featured in a number of independent web series, feature length and short films including “Connect the Series”, “GuyCode ATL”, “Deacon”, “High Stakes Game” and “Miscue”. While competitively dedicating myself to stage and film, I am working on the completion of my first music EP project as well.
How did participating in 21CL transform you and lead you to where you are now?
Participating in 21CL transformed me to be a lot more vocal and assertive. During my tenure, I learned that when getting things done you have to present yourself in the most professional and respectful way possible, while also making it clear what your goals are and the plan you expect to execute along the way. My leadership skills were certainly sharpened while attending the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute summer program. I found this program extremely beneficial because it opened my eyes to a lot more diversity. I was able to learn from and interact with a wider range of individuals who were not from my same area, skill set or background which prompted me to understand the minds and mannerisms of those around me.
And how did 21CL prepare you for your next steps? Going into college and taking on leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc. What skills/tools/perspectives have helped you along the way?
21CL instilled a work ethic and drive that I learned, during my college years, not a lot of people have. In most cases, it is up to you to get things done and no one will spoon feed you along the way. There may be a plethora of opportunities and resources presented to you along the way, but it is ultimately up to you to take advantage and establish your own branding and relationships. Branding was such an integral part of 21CL in my eyes because they taught us at an early age that what you sell yourself as is what people will perceive, so to always be careful and intentional with the relationships you build and power moves that you make.
Which programs did you participate in, and when? What skills did you gain or improve through those programs?
I participated in the WarnerMedia’s Youth Media Institute (formerly Turner’s Leadership Unplugged:CNN Experience) and I served on the Youth Ambassadors for my remaining year in the program. I gained a sense of what I wanted to do with my career. Initially, I had interest in the communications field, a part of me still does, but this program helped me realize that my passion was elsewhere. I gained a better skill of communication and I began to understand the logistics of behind the scenes productions.
What was a memorable or ‘aha’ moment in 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)
Meeting the on air anchors was the most memorable experience. That is when I realized that an on-camera career is what I was destined for. Watching the various promotional packages displayed during the retreat, Brooke Baldwin was actually the first on-camera talent to bring me to that realization, in the same token, she helped me realize that a career in world news journalism was not my peak of interest.
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 realize that you can never stop growing. They allowed me to understand the basics and how to enhance the qualities that I possessed as a leader. I am currently studying to receive a master’s degree in Sports Administration to enhance my leadership skills and broaden my range of knowledge. One key component that I have personally adapted from studying at Belhaven University, is that keeping God first in your decision-making will take you further than you could ever imagine.

Alumni Spotlight: Brienne’ Coates

Brienne’ Coates our second alumni spotlight for May is an industrial engineer who works for Home Depot as the IFC Analyst. She is graduate of South Paulding High School (2010),  Spelman College (2015), and Georgia Institute of Technology (2016).  Brienne’ is a member of the inaugural 21st Century Leaders Junior Board of Directors and when asked why she is interested in serving on this board, she says “The 21CL Junior Board is a great initiative and platform to give back to youth in Georgia and share experiences that encourage others to be leaders right where they are. It’s an exciting time to reach out, collaborate, and make a difference today!”

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I wake up to the hustle and bustle of accelerating trucks carrying containers with decorative symbols and bold insignia, often wondering where the freight is going. My current role as logistics analyst in partnership with the world’s largest home improvement retail company allows me to support the operational and inter-modal efficiency of shipping freight across the U.S. to ensure on-time delivery to our stores, and valued customers. Collaborating with vendors, dedicated partners, and on-site teams to reduce transit time, maintain roadway safety practices, and initiate more savings is the objective. Additionally, servicing the DIY customer with home goods and power tools to meet their needs results in success sharing. The logistics of coordinating freight enables exponential growth performance by focusing on improving vendor and carrier relationships with emphasis on engagement, support, and compliance. To my delight, fuzzy logic is the crux of data analytics when it comes to transporting freight.

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

Participating in a 21st Century Leaders summer leadership institutes helped open my eyes to the possibilities of leadership. Knowing that leadership skills can be developed and nurtured through a supportive network of peers and experienced professionals is remarkable. When I reflect on my experience with 21CL, I am continuously reminded to take on new leadership roles and engage in the adventure that follows.

And how did 21CL prepare you for your next steps? Going into college and taking on leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc. What skills/tools/perspectives have helped you along the way?

Discussing leadership challenges and development in a 21CL program prepared me for the next step of taking on leadership roles. In further consideration, it was the guidance, and encouragement from the staff, volunteers and peers which really helped to create a memorable and fun experience that got me excited about becoming a transformational leader in my community. I also gained a better understanding of how leadership spans across networks of people and systems for a bigger purpose. Having toured the facility of a primary electric utility company which supplies power to millions, my perspective was shaped by this experience. It inspired me to customize my leadership journey and maximize opportunities in higher education and professional development.

Which programs did you participate in, and when? What skills did you gain or improve through those programs?

I participated in 21CL’s 2009 EarthCare summer leadership institute at Berry College in Rome, GA.  I improved my soft skills and enjoyed interacting with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Interestingly, taking part in a life-sized obstacle course exercise made me realize the importance of team work, momentum and agility in overcoming real-life challenges.

What was a memorable or ‘aha’ moment in 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

Being involved in the environmental leadership challenge focused on reducing energy consumption and collaboratively delivering a winning proposal was a memorable ‘aha’ moment. In sharing the journey with other self-motivated individuals, I continue to embrace leadership skills and develop confidence in my ability to communicate and lead others effectively.

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, assisted by the workshops and tours provided by 21st Century Leaders, my leadership style has ­­­been influenced through networking with other student leaders and positive role models. By practicing bridge-building leadership, I am a more effective leader. As a 21CL alumna, I realized that leadership skills learned and activated today creates wisdom for effective leadership tomorrow.

 

Alumni Spotlight: Tessa Szalkowski

Alumna Tessa Szalkowski is our first spotlight for May! A graduate of Henry.W.Grady High School (2016) and currently a junior at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is a chemistry major with a minor in marine science and currently works in a laboratory that studies air chemistry in the Galápagos Islands. Tessa says that 21CL gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams and give back to community. Read on about Tessa and don’t forget to fill out the alumni career update form and share about your career progress, connect with other alumni and let us know if you would like to be featured on 21CL alumni blog post.

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

In my freshman year of high school, I joined 21CL’s school-based club at Grady, where I began a project to collect children’s books for the Kigali Public Library in Rwanda. 21st Century Leaders helped me expand from a small, local project to a state-wide fundraiser. They organized lectures for me to speak about the Kigali Book Project with students and teachers, developing my public speaking skills.  With 21st Century Leaders’ help, I rounded up over ten thousand books! In 2014, I was awarded their annual Georgia Youth Leadership Award. 21st Century Leaders gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams and dream big.

How did 21CL prepare you for your next steps? Going into college and taking on leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc. What skills/tools/perspectives have helped you along the way?

21st Century Leaders developed my networking skills and taught me how to give back to my community. With 21CL, I participated in many volunteer events at my high school and spoke with adults in the Atlanta business community on a regular basis. 21CL contributed valuable life skills that I continue to use to this very day.

Which programs did you participate in, and when? What skills did you gain or improve through those programs?

In 2013, I attended their EarthCare, summer leadership institute. This institute taught me how to talk to professionals, give presentations to business executives, and collaborate with my peers.

What was a memorable or ‘aha’ moment in 21CL? (Particular program, meeting professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

During the EarthCare institute, my team won the Clean Air Campaign challenge. We were given the task to come up with the best school campaign to decrease air pollution. My teammates and I worked hard on the assignment, brainstormed and came up with with a great presentation. When I heard our names called as the winning team, I realized that putting in the time and effort to a noble cause truly pays off. I discovered my true passion for environmental science during this project. I now work as an air chemist in a research lab, so I never gave up on that dream.

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 has taught me how to think on my feet and go with my gut instinct. To further promote my Kigali Book Project, 21CL asked me to collect books and make bookmarks with the students at their annual winter training, Goizueta Youth Leadership Summit. Upon arrival, I was asked to share a few words after the Minority Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives, Stacey Abrams. (Little did I know she would make a run at Georgia governor!) I was so nervous to address this room of bright students without a speech prepared, but after a gracious introduction, I took the stage and began to speak. Public speaking on the spot was something I would not have dared to do even a few years before. However, 21CL gives you the skills to face your fears with the utmost confidence. I have utilized these public speaking skills and ability to think on my feet as a leader in my academics and research.

Alumni Spotlight: Tavari Turner

Tavari Turner, our first alumni spotlight for April, is the Director of Grants and Special Initiatives at Boys & Girls Clubs of Chattahoochee Valley. Tavari serves on the inaugural 21CL Junior Board of Directors and says that serving there will be a great first step for him to giving back to an organization that provided him a dynamic opportunity to learn new leadership skills and interact with different professionals in the community.

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am currently serving as the Director of Grants & Special Initiatives for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Chattahoochee Valley. In this role I support the organization in raising funds via cultivation of public and private foundations who support our programs and services. In this role, I also support the management and compliance of over 1.5 million dollars in federal funds. In addition to my fundraising role, I also support the organization in several special initiatives including our Youth of the Year program which recognizes the Clubs’ shining stars and culminates in a huge awards night and fundraiser.

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

Participating in 21CL transformed me because it taught me some very critical leadership skills at an early age. One critical skill was the importance of teamwork when trying to meet a goal. I am sold on the importance of utilizing a team when working toward goals and it has guided me well in the early stages of my career.

And how did 21CL prepare you for your next steps? Going into college and taking on leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc. What skills/tools/perspectives have helped you along the way?

21CL prepared me for my next steps in college because I was prepared with the Leadership skills needed for college such as collaboration and communication. I learned a lot about myself and my personal leadership style which allowed me to work in a groups and to voice my opinion and not force my opinion.

Which programs did you participate in, and when? What skills did you gain or improve through those programs?

21st Century Leaders – Leadership Unplugged 2012 ; I learned a lot about collaboration and communication skill building. I have implemented several of these skills and ideals in my personal and professional life. I continue to be amazed at the growth and opportunities that have come to me because of my involvement in 21CL.

What was a memorable or ‘aha’ moment in 21CL? (Particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

The dinner held at CNN was an ‘aha’ moment for me. I was so fascinated with the opportunity to speak with professionals from different industries and discuss how leadership and the skills we learned during the program have played a practical role in their careers. There were many fun and engaging opportunities like this during the program 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!

21CL helped me develop leadership style that has guided me through my career thus far. I have learned to be a servant leader whether leading or being a participant in a project. I understand the true power of collaboration and serving others in a positive manner.

21st Century Leaders Receives Commendation from State of Georgia

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Founding Executive Director receives honor for 29 years of service to Georgia’s High School Students

(March 2019) Atlanta, Georgia – 21st Century Leaders is proud and honored to receive a 2019 Commendation from the State of Georgia from former Governor, Nathan Deal to recognize the organization’s 30th year history and specifically recognize the retirement of our founding executive director, Robert “Bob” Watson. 21st Century Leaders’ Board of Directors’ Chairman, Kevin Sessions presented the formal Commendation to Bob on March 2, 2019 at our annual Georgia Youth Leadership Awards.

Here’s a brief excerpt from the Commendation:

WHEREAS: Since 1989, 21st Century Leaders has served more than 14,000 high school students from over 250 high schools in Georgia. The efforts of the organization inspire young leaders and provide benefits for our state’s workforce by developing homegrown talent for Georgia communities and companies; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Robert “Bob” Watson, the founding executive director of 21st Century Leaders, has dedicated his career to the service of students in Georgia; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Watson retired in December 2018, following 29 years of service to youth leadership; and

WHEREAS: This year, 21st Century Leaders will celebrate 30 years of inspiring youth to lead and honor Mr. Watson for his decades of service; now
THEREFORE: I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby commend

21ST CENTURY LEADERS
and join in recognizing Mr. Robert “Bob” Watson for his service to Georgia’s youth.

View the full 21st Century Leaders Commendation 2019

21st Century Leaders is also asking everyone to share how Bob and 21CL has impacted them and show your appreciation by writing him a message. Everyone is encouraged to submit it before April 15th! SUBMIT YOUR MESSAGE HERE

About 21st Century Leaders:
Since 1989, 21st Century Leaders has served more than 14,000 diverse high school students from over 250 Georgia high schools. 21st Century Leaders is a collaboration of business and professional leaders inspiring high school students to take on leadership positions, seek out opportunities and give back to their communities by connecting them a diverse group of enthusiastic peers, passionate professionals and powerful ideas, transforming their skills, attitudes, and abilities through training and hands-on experiences. For more information about 21st Century Leaders and how you can be a part of the 30 Year celebration, visit www.21stcenturyleaders.org.

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Alumni Spotlight: Brandi Harrison

Brandi Harrison, is the Senior Manager of Production Operations and Crewing at Turner, a graduate of H.V. Jenkins High School (1997) and of Brenau University (2001). She is an alumna of 21st Century Leaders and now serves as chairperson of the 21CL Junior Board of Directors. At the Georgia Youth Leadership Awards (GYLA 2019) event which took place on March 2, 2019, Brandi was our keynote alumni speaker and gave a moving speech and talked about the inspiration, skills and values she acquired during her 21CL years. She also encouraged everyone who has been impacted by program to give back.

Following is part of her speech:

“I’m thrilled to be here tonight in the presence of such amazing students who are shaping the future right before our eyes! I’m in awe of the vision and determination that each of you have shown in the projects you’ve created. And it makes me think about my experiences with 21st Century Leaders.

I went through the summer program twice, in ’95 and ’96, as a rising junior and a rising senior. Back then, each level had a focus – for instance, the rising sophomores had to start a business and most of them sold chips and candy throughout the week – so you always knew who to hit up for a midnight snack in the dorms!

I know for a fact that I can draw a direct line between those 2 summers and who I am today.

  • In that intimate environment, I learned to work with a wide diverse group of students from all over GA and it shattered any stereotype that I had of “city people” or “country people”. A trait that helps me manage my current staff of 12 today.
  • I worked on real business projects and presented solutions to professionals which required me to ask thought provoking questions and understand company’s pain points. Skills that I use every day to find efficiencies in how we manage our production studios and resources at Turner.
  • And I was required to lead – not asked, not just suggested. There was an expectation that I would build teams, mentor others, and be a strong teammate to other leaders. I’ve used that talent to secure every job I’ve ever earned. And I’ll rely on it as I step into the new role of Chairman for our very first 21st Century Leaders Junior Board. Together, along with the other alumni on the Junior Board, we have a goal to reach out and galvanize our 14 thousand alumni… reconnecting them to the program and its mission.

All of those skills and expectations were originally ignited 30 years ago and fueled by the passion of our very own, Bob Watson!

Bob is such a special person. The first time I met him was my very first day of my first camp. I was walking up to the registration table and Bob happened to be standing there. He asked my name and once I said Brandi Harrison, his face LIT UP! He knew me and he was excited to meet me. As a 15 year old it was so memorable, there are few adults, outside of family that are thrilled to meet you! In the moment I thought I was special, but as I watched him the rest of the day, he had that same reaction to every single student he met and he’d mentioned tidbits from their application and interviews.

Bob has carried that same excitement and passion through every stage of building 21st Century Leaders into the organization it is today. And I know each and every one of you here have been impacted by 21st Century Leaders and touched by Bob’s passion.

Brandi went on to encourage everyone who had been impacted by 21st Century Leaders to support the organization, which lead into our crowdfunding campaign for the “Robert Watson Scholarship” that evening.

As Chairperson for the Junior Board of Directors, Brandi encourages all of our alumni to reengage with 21st Century Leaders in some way. Join a committee with the Junior Board, volunteer with the program and events, or donate to help future generations lead. 

Thank you, Brandi! Congratulations on all of your success thus far, and thank you for giving back to 21st Century Leaders.

Alumni Spotlight: Caleb Britt

Caleb Britt is our first spotlight for the month of February! A graduate of Shorter University (2017) and of Newnan High School (2013), he currently works as Market Coordinator & Digital Content Producer at Serenbe. Caleb says that 21st Century Leaders inspired him to be an organized person who stands out and goes an extra mile, and a leader who values teamwork and relationships. Read on…

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I’m the market coordinator and digital content producer at Serenbe. Some of my responsibilities include coordinating the weekly farmers’ market and creating videos, emails and social content.

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

I learned the importance of being confident and creative. The program exposed me to multiple areas of media and how it’s produced. I enjoyed seeing the behind-the-scenes work and creativity that goes into showcasing a person or a product. I carry these traits with me daily as I work to produce content that drives awareness.

And how did 21CL prepare you for your next steps? Going into college and taking on leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc. What skills/tools/perspectives have helped you along the way?

21CL showed me how to be an organized person who stands out and goes the extra mile. Every person I encountered in 21CL was extraordinary, and that motivated me to strive for excellence in everything I do. I also learned that leaders get comfortable with being outside of their comfort zone. It’s important to be open to new opportunities that will expand your thinking.

Which programs did you participate in, and when? What skills did you gain or improve through those programs?

I participated in Leadership Plugged-In in 2012 and was member of the Youth Advisory Board (now Youth Ambassadors) from 2012 to 2013.

What was a memorable or ‘aha’ moment in 21CL? ( a particular program, meeting a professional and diverse peers, speaking in public for the first time, etc.?)

My “aha” moment came in 2013 when I introduced the 20 Under 20 emcee and CNN Student News anchor Carl Azuz. That was my first time speaking in front of a large crowd of people I didn’t know. I was nervous in that moment, but I saw that I had support all around as my fellow Youth Advisory Board members cheered me on from the time I walked on stage to the time I walked off.  I also learned that leadership doesn’t have an age limit. It was inspiring to learn about how people my age and younger were doing great things in their communities.

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!

Most definitely! 21CL inspired me to be a leader who values teamwork and relationships. I learned that being a great leader involves being a great listener. It’s important to take everyone’s ideas into consideration because they bring different perspectives to the table.

Youth Ambassador Starts Nonprofit, Donates to 21CL

 21st Century Leaders’ Youth Ambassador Gautam Desai (Class of 2020, Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology), is modeling the way of service-oriented leadership with his non-profit Kids for Chess. He founded his organization in the spring and this summer hosted its first chess camp for elementary and middle school students.

Through Kids for Chess, Gautam is encouraging youth to make productive use of their time and developing their critical thinking skills. Not only did he garner sponsorships and support from local businesses, he is also donating proceeds from the camps to other charities (Rainbow Village in Duluth, GA and Save the Children) and to 21st Century Leaders, who he says inspired and equipped him to start his nonprofit and give back to the community.

Read the Gwinnett Daily Post’s article about him at https://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/local/good-news-from-schools-gsmst-student-holds-chess-camp/article_6611a8e1-8685-5e82-91d1-d969f021c53f.html

To learn more about Kids for Chess, visit https://kidsforchess.org

Way to go, Gautam! Thank you for giving back and being an inspiration.

Alumni Spotlight: Allante’ Collier

Allante’ Collier  is a graduate of  Kennesaw State University (2017) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering Technology. As a 21st Century Leaders student, Allante’ attended  Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology in Gwinnett county when she participated in  one of our summer leadership institutes in summer 2011. She attended Leadership Plugged-In (2011) one of two Turner sponsored summer programs at that time, where she was able to meet professionals in a variety of fields who inspired her career. Allante’ recently began her Project Management career in the construction industry and specializes in automation and controls for special projects, she currently works for  McKenney’s, Inc as Assistant Project Manager.

 Paint a picture of what you are doing currently

Currently, I am thriving in the Construction industry on the Project Management track. I specialize in Automation & Controls on special projects. During my time away from work, I serve as the National Professionals Publicist of the National Society of Black Engineers and run a lifestyle blog. Life is exciting and everything I could have never imagined!

How did participating in 21CL change you and/or lead you to where you are now

Participating in 21CL began my process of breaking away from my introvertive habits. I had to understand that growth does not come from being still and quiet, in a room full of opportunities.

What was a memorable or “aha” moment in 21CL

My “aha” moment in 21CL was networking with executives at Turner Studios during the executive leadership dinner. The professionals assured me that networking is just a conversation and I should not fear speaking with those in a higher power, as long as I make great use of the time.

How did 21CL prepare you for your next steps, going into college and taking leadership roles, heading into a new era of professionalism, etc..

21CL introduced me to getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. I became open to initiating conversations with executives and narrowing down my focus points to ask inquisitive, worthwhile questions. The main tool that has assisted me along my journey was the numerous opportunities to speak to varying audiences to get me out of my comfort zone.

What’s something you have recently learned about leadership

Recently, I have learned that leadership does not have an “official” position. If one sees an opportunity to guide others in a positive direction, take full control and lead. Never let fear or one’s worry of “not meeting the requirements” halt that process.

 

Allante’ is now giving back to the organization that gave so much to her. She has been an active volunteer with 21st Century Leaders during the past year, participating in our student applications and interviews led by our corporate partners and professionals.

Are you an alumni of 21st Century Leaders and want to be featured in the next Alumni Spotlight? Update us on where you are now.