Alumni Spotlight: Julian Mason

Julian Mason is a graduate of Westminster High School (2018) and of Drexel University (2022). He participated in many of our student programs, was a 21CL Youth Ambassador and during his college years and after, he has continued to volunteer with 21CL helping read and score summer applications and volunteering at our most recent golf fundraiser. Julian is a founder of a consulting company, New Hope Visionairies Coaching & Consulting LLC.  “Your challenges & stories are yours, and the more you do to not only learn from them, but also embrace them, I genuinely believe the better off you will be. Get to know yourself as deeply and intimately as possible. Explore your interests, see new scenes, and pour into yourself the best way you know how to and can.” ~Julian Mason’s advice to current and future high school students

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

I graduated from Drexel University in June 2022 Magna Cum Laude with my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Marketing concentration and obtained my certificate for Social Responsibility in Business. Since graduating, I spent a little bit of time in grad school until I let experience be my best teacher and started my own business, New Hope Visionairies Coaching & Consulting LLC. Essentially, it has two primary functions: 1.) consult companies looking to build upon or create experiential learning opportunities for early career professionals, and 2.) coach early career professionals looking to take advantage of and benefit from experiential learning opportunities. I love working with individuals between the ages of 16-23 to help them become more aware of themselves and more intentional about how they would like to work and contribute to their communities, and I think a good chunk of that passion of mine started with 21CL. So, if you’re ever interested in working together from a coaching or consulting perspective, reach out!

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

I graduated from Westminster in 2018 and first participated in 21CL doing Earthcare at Berry College in 2015. The following year, I became a Youth Ambassador and engaged in programming throughout the year. Since graduating high school, I have participated in programs through alumni volunteer opportunities like fundraisers and reviewing new member applications.

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 got the chance to explore my interests through some amazing Co-op experiences in college. My first came with working at Sephora as a Talent Acquisition Coordinator where my biggest project was helping them build, launch, and manage their first virtual internship program due to the rise of COVID-19. The following year, I earned the opportunity to work with Sephora’s parent company LVMH Inc. Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton as a Talent Management & Corporate Social Responsibility Intern where I got to work with the 40+ North American brands that fall under LVMH Inc. such as Tiffany & Co., Dior, Rimowa, Bulgari, and more, to develop and enhance programming for their early career professionals. 21CL truly has had a positive impact on me and enhanced my passion for developing programs and systems that help teens and young adults explore the value of experiential learning opportunities. I grew up on the south side of town but went to school in Buckhead, so I like to operate from a spectrum of perspectives. It wasn’t until I found 21CL that I started to nurture this spectrum. 21CL has a way of providing an individual with the platform to believe in themselves and their capabilities as a leader like no other program does.

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 ‘aha’ moment during my time in 21CL was definitely the ropes course. I had never done anything like it, and I really wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone. I remember being so scared to the point of me almost not doing the course, but then my peer leader and fellow members supported me so much to the point where I did not care about failing after I tried because I realized that failing would be not trying in the first place. Long story short, I completed the ropes course, overcame a fear of failing in the moment, and became a more confident leader with an increased reverence for community support.

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

21CL helped me to develop a collaborative leadership style for sure. I feel as if my experiences with 21CL such as Earth Care and Youth Ambassadors always showed me that even though you may be the designated leader, you might not always know what is best, so you must be as good a follower as you are a leader, and doing so even makes you a better leader. I remember when I became the president of the Black Student Union during my senior year in college, I told everyone at the first general body meeting that they were also the president of the organization. This was the first year back on campus after COVID, and I knew that if I wanted to enhance the sustainability and longevity of the organization, then I needed others to have ownership of their ideas and that came with simply sharing some of my leadership as President. Lessons like that can only be learned from one’s own experiences, so I am extremely grateful for the experiences that I had with 21CL that force me to reflect and be externally introspective because they make me a well-rounded leader by welcoming the perspective of others.

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

The advice that I would give to current or future students is to trust in YOUR struggle, live for YOU, and give love to YOUR life. Your challenges & stories are yours, and the more you do to not only learn from them, but also embrace them, I genuinely believe the better off you will be. Get to know yourself as deeply and intimately as possible. Explore your interests, see new scenes, and pour into yourself the best way you know how to and can.

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

21CL described in three words: Fulfilling, Impactful, Motivating

Alumni Spotlight: Jena Paramesh

Jena Paramesh is a graduate of Alan C. Pope High School (2019) and of Tulane University (2023). Throughout high school, Jena attended many of our student programs, was a 21CL Youth Ambassador and during her college years she provided pro-bono consulting services to non-profits and small businesses. Jena is currently travelling and volunteering for a youth organization abroad before starting a consulting job with Capgemini Invent in New York City in January 2024. “I consider myself a servant leader. I like to lead with the intention of impacting others meaningfully and with care and kindness. I’ve also recently learned that good leaders know when to and not to take on projects. If you are spreading yourself too thin it’s likely that others you work with will feel it too. It’s important to be intentional with the type of projects you choose to take on.” ~Jena Paramesh

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

Hi, I’m Jena Paramesh. I graduated in May 2023 from Tulane University with a BSM in Finance and a minor in Psychology and Management. Aside from my coursework, I involved myself in Consult Your Community, a pro-bono consulting club for non-profits and small businesses, Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity, and Jazbaa, my school’s Bollywood dance team. I am now set to begin a consulting role at Capgemini Invent in New York City this January (2024). As I prepare to start work I am travelling and volunteering for a youth organization abroad.

 

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

I attended Alan C. Pope High School in Marietta, GA from 2015 to 2019. In the summer of 2017 I was part of the Turner Youth Voices Media Institute now known as Warner Bros. Discovery Youth Media Summit and of the Summer Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI@ Goizueta) in 2018. I was also chosen to participate in the 2018 Summer Immersion Program where I shadowed at Hire Dynamics assisting on human resource tasks and special projects. My senior year I attended events throughout the year and served on the leadership team as a 21CL Youth Ambassador.

 

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?

When I first joined 21CL, I was a high school student with a passion for leadership and a desire to make a positive impact on my community. Over the years, 21CL has played a pivotal role in shaping my personal and professional development. It has helped build my confidence, effective communication, and teamwork skills. One particular aspect that I found immensely beneficial was the concept of building a personal ‘brand’ and crafting an effective elevator pitch. This skill set enabled me to stay true to my core beliefs and attract like-minded individuals. Additionally, I wasn’t afraid to speak up and run for different leadership roles, eventually leading to my position as co-president of Consult Your Community in my junior year. Looking ahead, I am confident that the foundation I built through my participation in 21CL will continue to guide my career.

 

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.)

On my third day at camp I introduced a senior director at Turner Broadcasting. I remember being so nervous to stand on stage and use a microphone in front of everyone. It was my first time introducing someone so important and furthermore in front of others of the same prestige. However, everyone I spoke to afterward was so supportive and friendly. It was an “aha” moment for me because instead of being intimidated by these leaders I was able to realize that they are all open and more than willing to help and offer encouragement. In addition to the professionals, my peers helped me feel comfortable and supported. I met so many unique and interesting students at camp and have seen them go on to do some incredible things. 21CL has given me lifelong friendships.

 

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

I consider myself a servant leader. I like to lead with the intention of impacting others meaningfully and with care and kindness. I’ve also recently learned that good leaders know when to and not to take on projects. If you are spreading yourself too thin it’s likely that others you work with will feel it too. It’s important to be intentional with the type of projects you choose to take on – just because you feel like you can do it doesn’t mean you should. Consider the needs of the team and evaluate your own bandwidth. 

 

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

Embrace every moment and take notes! You’ll want to look back on it one day. The network you start to build within 21CL can help you later in your career or with finding the right first job. I would recommend keeping a log of everyone you spoke with and would like to connect with later on. Try to remember one personal detail about the person – like their dog for example and sprinkle it in the next time you connect. No one wants to feel like a corporate machine and if you are being brick walled make sure you still bring the energy – it’s contagious.   

 

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

This is so hard! There are too many words to describe this wonderful organization but if I had to choose 3 it would be Collaborative, Fun, and Inspiring. 

Alumni Spotlight: Michael Garcia

21CL Alumnus Michael Garcia is a graduate of Cherokee High School (2020) and currently a third-year BBA student at the University of Georgia (2024); during high school, Michael participated in many of our programs including EarthCare, SYLI, Leadership exCHANGE and was 21CL Youth Ambassador for two terms. In this post he shares how all this has shaped his career trajectory!

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

I am Michael Garcia and I am currently a third-year student at The University of Georgia pursuing a BBA in Risk Management and Insurance with a certification in Legal Studies. I am very active on campus at UGA, participating in many activities and organizations such as Association of Latino Professionals for America and I am excited that I will be president for my chapter this upcoming school year; I will be interning this summer as a Consulting Intern for Crowe in New York City. In my free time, I love exploring new cities. I enjoy trying different restaurants, going to concerts, or simply having a self care night at home.

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

I attended Cherokee High School from 2016 through 2020 and during my high school years I was fortunate to attend two different leadership institutes, EarthCare at GCSU in 2018 and SYLI @Goizueta in 2019; I also attended the Fall Summit – Leadership exCHANGE – in 2018. After completing the EarthCare institute, I was inspired to get more involved with 21st Century Leaders so I applied for their Youth Ambassador program and I served two terms as an Ambassador, from 2018-2019 and again from 2019-2020 where I was the Chair for the Youth Ambassador program. When I was a rising senior, I was blessed to be awarded the 2019 Georgia Youth Leadership Award. Ever since, I try my best to stay informed and connected with 21st Century Leaders – I actually just attended the 2023 GYLA ceremony in March. It felt great to reconnect with the individuals who make 21CL possible and it felt even better to get inspired by what these students are accomplishing!

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 experienced many “aha” moments throughout my time with 21st Century Leaders, however, one moment stands out for me. After receiving news that I was a GYLA awardee, my peers and I were invited to meet our mentors and network with one another. During that event, I was interviewed on camera and was able to speak with my peers who, I felt, were doing so much better than me. Living about an hour away from Atlanta, that car ride to the GYLA Meet & Greet meeting was definitely an emotional one for me. I am a first-generation high school graduate and college student, and growing up I did not think about colleges or entering the corporate workforce. I could never have imagined someone like me being in a room with 20 outstanding leaders. That was the first time I felt proud of myself! It was the first time that I actually believed that I stood a chance at succeeding beyond high school. None of that would’ve been possible without my mom, who supported me even when she didn’t understand what all this was about. It wouldn’t have been possible without the exposure to diversity, critical thinking, and growth I endured during the 21CL Summer Leadership Institutes.

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

One of the most important skills that 21CL taught me that continues to effect my leadership style is to always be an empathetic leader. An eye-opening experience for me was during SYLI when we took a day to learn about diversity and which is one of the things that makes 21st Century Leaders so unique. As a student, you’re connected with a cohort of students who come from different backgrounds – ethnic, religious, socio-economic, etc. The beauty in this is that diversity is celebrated and students are encouraged to learn from different perspectives. Having this exposure gave me an advantage when I began my college journey because I was already involved with different diverse groups. As I continue to learn about leadership, there is a consistency between empathy and diversity. Knowing how to leverage both makes one a stronger leader.

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

My advice to students would be to go for it and give yourself a chance. I remember when I applied for the various opportunities within 21CL I hesitated with submitting my application – whether it was for Youth Ambassador or SYLI I did not think I would stand a chance. However, all it took was believing in my skills and giving myself a chance. I would also mention that once you’ve accomplished one thing, don’t stop there. Continue putting yourself out there and ensuring that your brand as a student is known. After all, there is only one “you.”

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

There are so many ways I could describe 21CL, however, I would say this program is the token to “propelling your career.” This organization teaches you more than professionalism. It enriches students with social and communication skills, all of which are key to succeeding in your profession.

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: Jestini Jordan

21CL Alumna  Jestini Jordan is a graduate of Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology (2018) and of Texas A&M University (May 2022); now she owns and operates a digital business company – Jess My Creations. Throughout high school, Jestini attended many of our student programs, was a 21CL Youth Ambassador and was one of our 2018 Georgia Youth Leadership Award winners. She prides herself in being a great listener-the skill she acquired from 21CL programs!

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I just graduated from Texas A&M University with an engineering degree in Industrial Distribution! I also own and operate a digital art and digital services business called Jess My Creations where I make custom digital portraits, stickers, and more! Over my college tenure, I’ve been a resident advisor, a campus tour guide, and an active member of a women’s organization. Being involved throughout my college career has served me well but has specifically taught me the importance of building a community. Since graduating high school, I’ve moved to a new state, met people with incredible backgrounds, and strengthened and developed long lasting connections and networks.

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

Being involved in 21CL transformed the way I looked at leadership and groomed me into the young adult I am today. Being a part of 21CL taught me the true meaning of selfless service and being able to be confident in my ability to shift the paradigm. By being able to explore and refine my skills as a leader through 21CL programs during my high school, I’ve been able to excel and be confident in college in settings such as group projects, campus-wide events, and in specific leadership roles like being a resident advisor and a tour guide.

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 SYLI program in the summer of 2016, the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute program in the summer 2017, and I was a member of the Executive Council as a 21CL Youth Ambassador for the 2017-2018 school year. I was also a 21CL Georgia Youth Leadership Award recipient in 2018. By participating in 21CL programs, I gained the strength and confidence to take leadership roles on my college campus, vocalize my thoughts, and feed my passions. By being able to partake in the 21CL programs, I learned the true meaning of leadership early and built a foundational knowledge to eventually grow upon in college. Whether it was the speaker panels during the Turner Voices program, or the case study in the SYLI program, I learned the skill and value of public speaking. I also had the opportunity to be a moderator in my role as a Youth Ambassador, which taught me a lot about how to convey myself in a collected manner and projecting my voice.

Do you have a 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 moments from my time at 21CL was meeting the likeminded peers and students from across Georgia. I loved being able to have conversations with student leaders from Savannah while also chatting with student leaders from North Georgia, all in one sitting! I loved the diversity of the program and how everyone had their own special distinction. I was able to build relationships with students that I am still connected with and talk to today! Building a community of leaders is something that I learned during my 21CL days and having friends who were also leaders, helped to propel and challenge me as a leader. 21CL did a real great job at filling the room with individuals that were innovative, exuded confidence, and were active listeners!

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! 21CL helped me refine and develop my leadership style that I still utilize and lead with today. I lead through listening and 21CL set the foundation for being a leader that listens first and then acts. As a young adult, listening provides clarity, allows me to create a calculated solution, and most importantly it allows for me to make sound decisions. 21CL fostered the ideas of active listening and engagement early in my career as a leader, allowing me to flourish in my roles today!

Alumni Spotlight: Sloane Brakeville

21CL Alumnus Sloane Brakeville is our first alumni spotlight for December 2021. A graduate of Kennesaw Mountain High School (2009), and of University Of Georgia (2014), Sloane is a serial entrepreneur in the software industry who previously worked as Blockchain Specialist at IBM where he worked with dozens of Fortune 500 companies. He currently works as Chief Operating Officer at Computis, a startup he founded.

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now

I’m a serial entrepreneur in the software space. I sold my old startup, Fr8 Network, earlier this year and have been working full time on my latest startup Computis which is a software product for calculating capital gains and losses on cryptocurrency investments. We just survived our first tax year and are on track to triple our client base for next year!

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

21CL gave me a level of mental confidence to affirm I was “special enough” to make a mark on the world. A program like this gives kids attention and by being selected gives us a push to do something risky or challenging. It also introduced me to some great lifelong friends.

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 EarthCare Summer Leadership Institute in 2009. Embarrassingly enough, the ballroom dancing class has stuck with me the most. It taught me some basic moves to build on while I was becoming an adult and without them I would have floundered on the dance floor even worse than I do. Coming into the program I frequently struggled with social confidence and the dancing lessons took away some anxiety at networking events and bars.

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

I’ll never forget sitting at a table with my new-found friends eating lunch on the last day and being filled with a sense of accomplishment. The program forced me out of my comfort zone countless times and I truly felt like a leader amongst my peers. The diversity stood out to me and the difference I felt between my peer group at my high school and my peer group at 21CL was game for me, a better perspective of the world.

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 cemented my “lead by doing” motto. I was raised by a leader, my dad, who started his own Physical Therapy clinic while I was in 5th grade. He would tell me stories of other respected leaders with a common theme; treat everyone equally, and there’s no work that is “below me.” I’ve worked a lot of different jobs to find myself here, including being a janitor on weekends to get some extra money. My experience at 21CL reminded me that a team can benefit from leadership, but the wrong kind of leadership will eventually cause an implosion.

Alumni Spotlight: Edward Freeman

21CL Alumnus Edward Freeman is our second spotlight for November 2021. A graduate of Thomasville High School (2017), and currently a final year student at Georgia Institute of Technology (2021), he was recently recognized as one of Georgia Tech’s 2021 Faces Of Inclusive Excellence Honorees for his book “Standing: Stand on Who You Were Created To Be.” In his acceptance note Edward said that as a student he strives to make impact in the classroom, amongst peers and through his entrepreneurial works.

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am approaching graduation from Georgia Tech in December with a dual-degree Bachelors of Science in Biology and Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies with concentrations in Pre-Medicine and Spanish. Over the last summer, I interned at Bayer Pharmaceuticals as an Upstream Process Development Intern in Berkeley, California. After graduation, I plan on taking a gap year to conduct biotechnology research while I apply to medical school. Outside of school, I actively speak to youth audiences on topics such as self-empowerment, education, socioemotional health, and anti-bullying awareness. In the Spring of 2020 I published my first book “Standing: Stand on Who You Were Created To Be“, a self-empowerment book for Gen Z and Millenials. Additionally, I tutor students in Spanish Language and STEM-related subjects.

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

21CL gave me the confidence to step into leadership roles and speak to large crowds without any fear. Before participating in 21CL, I did not have exposure to programs to enhance my professional development skills. I grew up in rural South Georgia, and participating in programs like 21CL was rare and unheard of. Coming to Atlanta and being on Georgia Tech’s campus while at TVYMI [a summer leadership institute], I felt inspired to think outside of the box and take advantage of every single opportunity that was placed in front of me. My experience at TVYMI encouraged me to apply to Georgia Tech, and this is one of the reasons why I am a student here today! In addition, I gained more confidence in speaking in professional settings as well as networking.  It also felt great to be surrounded by a diverse group of like-minded peers, many of whom I still keep in contact with to this day. I will always cherish my experience at 21CL because for the first time, as a sophomore in high school, I saw what I was capable of, and was forever changed from that moment on.

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 2015 Turner Voices Youth Media Institute (TVYMI), currently known as WarnerMedia Institute for Future Leaders, at Georgia Tech and the 2017 Goizueta Youth Leadership Summit hosted at Emory University. One of the key skills that I learned at TVYMI is how to operate in a team and to create formal presentations. As a Biology and Spanish major, I often have to present research presentations and by participating in 21CL, I learned my stage presence and how to articulate key points from my presentation. In addition, I have served on Georgia Tech’s African American Student Union Executive Board as Community Outreach Co-Chair. I was able to incorporate the team-building skills learned at 21CL while being on an E-board. Equally as important, I learned how to operate in professional settings. As a Georgia Tech Student Ambassador, I often interact with alumni and school faculty in business and social settings. My experience at 21CL prepared me to network and interact in corporate environments at a young age. Learning certain skills such as a firm handshake, making eye contact, and even knowledge of conversation starters assisted me greatly stepping into the student ambassador role. The skills learned during my experience as a 21CL student have greatly helped me in professional conferences, corporate internships, and during interviews.

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

 My ‘aha’ moments in 21CL came from first arriving at the 2015 TVYMI and interacting with like minded peers from diverse backgrounds. For the first time in my life, I met people that had similar interests and goals. Coming from a small town, I had big dreams, and oftentimes, felt alone because not many people around me thought the way I did. The initial moments at TVYMI showed me that outside of my hometown, there is a community of like minded peers that have big dreams to cultivate change throughout the state of Georgia and the entire world.

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!

Absolutely! 21CL taught me a lot about servant leadership and how to be an effective and emotionally intelligent leader.  The realization that leadership is more about lifting others up as you climb than it is being on a platform came while participating in 21CL. During the speed networking events, I would see professionals take time to serve and pour into students. Seeing this at 16 inspired me to lead in the same way. Throughout my undergraduate leadership positions, I found myself in spaces where I am serving underclassmen or grade school students.

I was even able to find ways to serve students from where I grew up. This fall, I gave two academic book scholarships to African-American Male students from Southwest Georgia from my book. My experience at 21CL gave me the fundamental skills to become an effective leader, and over time these skills grew into what they are today.

Alumni Spotlight: Maimuna Gassama

21CL Alumna Maimuna Gassama is our first spotlight for November 2021. A graduate of Cross Keys High School (2015), of St. John’s University (2019) and of Johns Hopkins University (2021), she currently works as Senior Program Management Coordinator at The Kaizen Company, where she is in charge of managing projects in Jordan and Uganda that are funded by United States Agency for International Development- USAID . In this post, Maimuna shares about the lessons on leadership she learned from 21CL and how she has taken them onward throughout her undergraduate and graduate school, professionally, and in her day-to-day life. She enjoys mobilizing people towards bigger goals and ensures everyone’s ideas and strengths are cultivated to produce the best results!

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I’m a recent graduate of the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, where I received my Master’s Degree in international economics and conflict management. After graduation, I worked with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) on emergency refugee work. Now, I work as a senior program management coordinator at the Kaizen Company – Tetra Tech. The Kaizen Company is an international development consulting firm and an incubator for innovative, scalable solutions that address emerging market challenges and opportunities. In this role, I assist in managing two USAID (United States Agency for International Development) projects in Jordan and Uganda.

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

One of the most important lessons I learned from 21CL was the importance of paying it forward. I was overwhelmed by the kindness and encouragement from all the volunteers and 21CL staff at all 21CL events. They were all so generous with their time and were all genuinely committed to seeing us succeed and thrive. Those experiences have encouraged me to continue “paying it forward” in any way I can. I served as a mentor during undergrad, supporting incoming first-year students from minority backgrounds, and currently serve as a mentor with Diplomatic Perspective, an initiative to increase minority representation in international affairs. Apart from mentoring, I work in the international development space. The idea of paying it forward directly coincides with my work today. The projects I work on are in partnership with USAID. So, my work also provides opportunities to support efforts that lay down foundations that improve people’s lives and allow people everywhere to succeed.

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 quite a few different 21CL programs. I attended Leadership Unplugged currently known as Warner Media Institute for Future Leaders (2013) and the EarthCare Summer Leadership Institute (2014). I was also a member of the Youth Advisory Council and Board, then went on to be a Turner Voices intern at CNN Newsource after graduating high school.

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

I loved being social throughout all of the 21CL camps, but I was TERRIFIED of public speaking. I convinced myself that I was okay with being in the background. Sure, leaders don’t have to be the loudest in the room, but they need to be ready to step up if required. During the EarthCare Summer Leadership Institute, right before our final presentations, one of my group members suggested we perform a “rap” in place of a PowerPoint presentation. We huddled, brainstormed, and came up with an AMAZING rap, but like me, all my group members were terrified of public speaking, and therefore uncomfortable with performing the rap. I mustered up all the courage my 17-year-old self had and rose to the challenge. I volunteered to perform the rap alone on the condition that we’d include additional parts in our presentation so everyone could be involved.  The rap and the presentation were such a success that my team won the “EarthCare challenge!”

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?

21CL taught me a lot about my leadership style. My experiences with the students from my 21CL cohorts collectively encouraged me to be more of a visionary leader. 21CL taught me the value of collaboration to produce excellent work AND the importance of supporting and respecting all group members when working on collaborative efforts. It’s why I’m a leader dedicated to always lifting as I climb and making sure to always pay it forward. I’ve taken the lessons 21CL taught me about leadership to undergrad, throughout graduate school, professionally, and in my day-to-day life. I enjoy mobilizing people towards a vision and a big picture goal, then ensuring everyone’s ideas and strengths are cultivated to produce the best results.

Alumni Spotlight: Alfonzo Washington

Our first alumni spotlight for February 2020 is Alfonzo Washington, a graduate of Woodland High School (2012) and of Albany State University (2016). He currently works as a teacher at Henry County Schools and has recently joined the 21CL Junior Board of Directors.

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now

I currently work as a middle school teacher in Henry County Schools, I serve as team lead for my grade and I coach football and basketball. I have also served as a Summer Leadership Team member three times and I plan to continue every summer for as long as the organization will have me. 

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

When I attended the first summer institute (EarthCare) I was reserved and didn’t have much understanding of what my purpose was or why I was chosen to be part of this illustrious program. By the time I was a senior and participating in my final summer institute- Leadership Unplugged (now Youth Media Institute), I had accomplished so many things in school that have a direct correlation to my involvement with 21st Century Leaders. The program made me into the man I am today by instilling confidence in me and helping me find my passion of working with youth and inspiring the next generation the way my 21CL staff did for me. Serving on the Summer Leadership Team brings back good memories for me while creating new memories seeing the next generation excel.

I owe 21st Century Leaders a lot for developing me as a leader and as a man. Being a 21st Century Leader is one of the most important things I’ve ever done in my life. I love the organization and I will always do what I can to support the program.

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?

I have been blessed to accomplish great milestones in my collegiate and professional careers and I credit 21st Century Leaders for it.  During my college years I was challenged with being a Holley Ambassador, my responsibility in this organization was to serve as a tour guide for incoming freshmen and transfer students. I also served as a mentor for new students and today, I still have a relationship with many of my mentees. I am most proud of serving as president of my fraternity- Beta Psi chapter, I earned the trust of my brothers to lead them and be the face of the organization when I was new in the fraternity. As a professional I have been a football coach, basketball coach for my school and been awarded the Stockbridge Middle School Teacher of the Month title at least once in each of the last three years. If it had not been for the leadership and professionalism I learned from 21st Century Leaders I would not be where I am today.

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

During high school I had the pleasure of being involved with 21st Century leaders from the summer of 2009 to the summer of 2011. During those years I went to EVERY summer leadership institute; G5 at Goizueta (now SYLI), Leadership Unplugged, Leadership Plugged In, Earthcare at Berry, as well as, the Georgia Southern program. I also went to all the school-year events and had the pleasure of serving on the Youth Ambassadors each year in the program. All of the 21st Century Leaders programs had a great impact on my life both personally and professionally.

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.?

What I can’t forget is presenting my first project with my team at EarthCare in 2009, it was my first time presenting in front of judges with a group! Having to lean on a group of individuals outside of a sporting platform was interesting and also showed me how I could incorporate my athletic competitiveness to other aspects of life.

Something else that I can’t forget is meeting great instructors and youth workers who helped guide me in the right direction. I am still thankful to those individuals which is why I work so hard to do the same for others. Whether it is a week at Georgia Tech working with our SYLI students, or a week in my sixth grade social studies class, my goal is the same, give my all to these kids!

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!

Key principles of leadership that I learned from 21CL and that I apply most in my professional career are passion, service-oriented and forward-thinking. These traits have played a pivotal role in my leadership development journey. Passion is in everything I do whether it is acknowledged or not because I always want the people that I work with to know that I care and will be there for them. I think having passion in what you do and being unapologetic about it is important because people will always know where you stand. Every achievement I have made is because I was passionate in what I was doing, I worked hard and believed in myself and others took note of that passion. I was lucky enough to be recognized for that but I still would have the same passion even without recognition. When it comes to service-oriented forward-thinking, it is the very reason I chose the Education profession. I truly believe in the next generation and feel that it is my duty to arm the next leaders with the tools they need to succeed in life.

I plan to do more studies and specialize in education and to one day open a school with a focus on performing arts and athletics for low income and talented kids who face barriers to display their talents. I have worked with many students who have athletic or arts talent and many of them rely on those talents to get them to where they want to be and forget about the importance of performing well in school.

Alumni Spotlight: Asher Jones

21CL Alumnus Asher Jones is our first Alumni Spotlight for the month of November! He is a graduate of Roswell High School (2013) and Georgia State University (2017). Asher works as Program Manager for Leadership Connect at 21st Century Leaders Inc., managing several programs including, Leadership Connect – the online learning platform, 21Clubs, our Youth Ambassadors, Summer Immersion Program, and collaborates with our other Program Manager on all other 21CL programmatic efforts! Asher is a football enthusiast turned into a great leader, he says that 21CL inspired him to look into other interesting careers and transformed him into a more collaborative leader and team-player. 

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

Participating in 21CL in high school greatly improved my understanding of careers outside the ones I was initially interested in. Before 21CL, all I really cared about was football and basing everything in my life around football. After I attended a 21CL program, I was able to understand the wide range of careers that also peaked my interest.

I came back to work as part of the staff for the Summer Leadership Team in 2017 and luckily found a full-time role with 21st Century Leaders soon thereafter. I joined 21st Century Leaders because as an alumnus of the program I know first hand what a great experience it is for high school students. The relationships and contacts I cultivated as a result of 21st Century Leaders have been very impactful. I am so excited to now be able to be an integral part of contributing to the development of those relationships on the other side!

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 helped prepare me for college and the next steps in my life simply by exposing them to me. I had never stayed in a dorm room, networked with a professional or really spent much time on a college campus before 21CL, so to be able to combine all those things in one week, through the summer leadership institutes, was truly transformative. Along with enhancing my public speaking skills as I am a naturally outgoing person, 21CL also helped me develop my critical thinking skills as well as my team building skills by putting me in situations that forced me to evaluate and analyze situations while also relying on others for assistance – which I wasn’t necessarily great at before.

Which programs did you participate in and what stood out to you? 

I attended Leadership Unplugged in 2011 and Leadership Plugged In 2012 (both are merged to our Youth Media Institute). While I can’t really recall a true “aha” moment, I do remember all the conversations and experiences I had with peers and professionals to this day and I value them greatly.

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 did help me enhance my leadership style by instilling in me the importance of team building and reliance on others. I was (and still am) am a pretty stubborn person who likes to do things his own way and always thought other people would hinder rather than help me in the end. 21CL showed me it’s quite the opposite and how to properly value the contributions of others in order to be a more effective leader. It is something I still grow in everyday but there has been definite improvement and I have 21CL to thank. If you need proof, ask Nicole (our other Program Manager)!