Alumni Spotlight: Camaran Henson

Camaran Henson, a graduate of Brookwood High School (2012) and of the United States Naval Academy (2017), currently works as the Vice President, Global Program Manager at Citigroup and is a former Naval Officer who served in the US Navy for more than ten years. While in high school, Cam participated in one of 21st Century Leaders’ Summer Leadership Institutes, the media- and technology-focused program sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery (formerly Turner) known at the time as Leadership Plugged-In. In this post he shares how that training helped him throughout his high school years and after.

“Outside of sports, this was the first time I had to engage with peers for a desired outcome. As someone who “likes to do it all” this experience gave me insight on how to rely on and trust in my team.” – Camaran Henson

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

After graduating high school, I attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. While there I earned my Bachelor of Science in Economics. Following graduation, I was commissioned into the navy as a Naval Officer. I had the opportunity to serve in the Navy for an additional 6 years and led teams of 30-300 personnel. I have now transitioned out of the naval service and work as a Vice President, Global Program Manager at Citi. In this role I serve as an internal consultant to Citi’s transformation goals.

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

While in high school in 2010, I participated in a 21CL summer camp program known as Leadership Plugged-In at Georgia Institute of Technology.

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?

21CL was my first exposure to networking with peers outside of the classroom. It gave me the opportunity to work with individuals with different backgrounds at an early age in my life and the networking and interpersonal skills I learned guided me through my time at the Naval Academy and beyond!

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.)

While at the 21CL camp I had to work with a group to do a presentation. Outside of sports, this was the first time I had to engage with peers for a desired outcome. As someone who “likes to do it all” this experience gave me insight on how to rely on and trust in my team.

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!

Recently I have learned that leadership is to try and look at situations from another person’s perspective.

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

Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Take on challenges and utilize this time in your life to work out the “kinks.” Step outside of your comfort and challenge yourself in the areas that you think you need to develop.

How would you describe 21CL in three words?

Insightful, Engaging and FUN!

Alumni Spotlight: Brandon Ona

Our second alumni spotlight for January 2020 is Brandon Ona, a graduate of Mill Creek High School (2012) and of The George Washington University (2016). He currently works as an Associate International Trade Manager at Georgia Department of Economic Development where he has been working since 2017 after his previous work at The White House! Brandon has recently joined the 21CL Junior Board of Directors.

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

Since graduating college, I have worked in the public sector for both federal and state government. Today, I work for the Georgia Department of Economic Development and my role is to help small businesses in Georgia access economic opportunities in countries around the world. I always try to find time to volunteer at 21CL events where I provide my experience to students currently in the program and share the incredible opportunities that being a part of 21CL has opened up to me; I have just started serving on the 21CL Junior Board of Directors and my hope is to continue inspiring young people, and to share my message that the “secret to success” for a meaningful career is to find out who you care about the most and what you are best at, and when you put the two together, you change the game for everyone else.

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

I participated in the 2011 Leadership Unplugged: A CNN Experience (now called the Youth Media Institute) program with 21CL, a program that was designed to develop our leadership skills through the lens of journalism. From the moment I arrived, I was eager to meet the other young leaders, who like myself, were high school students from Georgia. However, as I got to know my new peers, I quickly learned that we all had different stories despite having so much in common.

Admittedly at the time, and still to this day, I had no interest in making a career in journalism, let alone being a leader in this field. However, during the program, we learned how to lead with curiosity to find the common thread through our diverse stories.  This is when the leadership skills through journalism came into play and changed my life. In many ways, I learned how to relate and connect with others, while admiring what sets us apart. To me this was, and very much still is the ultimate lesson in leadership, and I am so grateful to have learned this as a young person. As a 21st Century Leader, I realized for the first time that leadership is finding what is unique and universal in all of us, and knowing that our diversity is what propels us forward. This is a principle I have carried with me ever since, and has led me to opportunities I could never have imagined possible if it was not for a 21CL 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?

One of my biggest takeaways from 21CL was the importance of being of service to others. I took this to heart, and upon graduating high school, pursued a career in public service with the hopes of working in and with government entities to help everyday people live more fulfilling lives. One incredible opportunity/accomplishment that came from this was early on in my career. The day after I graduated college, I was appointed to serve as an aide at The White House’s Office of Management and Budget. In this role, I helped move various aspects of the President’s agenda forward, most of which were focused on helping Americans get back on their feet during the economic recovery that followed the Great Recession.

Throughout my career as a public servant at both the federal and state level of government, the core of the work I do is trying to understand the challenges people face, the hopes they hold, and the environment in which they live, to figure out how I and the institution I work for can be of service to them. All of which are leadership skills I began to learn with 21CL. 21CL set forth the momentum for me to be prepared for the incredible opportunity of working for the President of the United States on behalf of the American people.

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

I participated in both a summer leadership institute and school-year program. One important skill I gained from these programs was authentic storytelling. Being able to listen and learn someone’s story and tell it truthfully through the work I do has been invaluable in my life.

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.?)

One moment I will never forget from the program was watching a few of my peers on live television getting interviewed CNN en Español with the headline that translated to “meet the leaders of tomorrow.” It was so inspiring to watch them and know that even though we met just two days ago, they are now having an impact on 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!

The single most important skill I learned at 21CL was leading with curiosity- learning people’s stories and figuring out how I can be of service to them, or work with them to be of service to others. In recent years, I have learned that leading with curiosity does not necessarily feel like you are a “very important leader.” Instead, in the moment, you feel like a person who really wants to help someone else simply because you care. In fact, often times the last thing you think is that you are leader. However, when you lead with curiosity, you move someone’s life forward, which moves the world forward even in the smallest way.

Alumni Spotlight: Amira Daugherty

Our second Alumni Spotlight for November 2019 is Amira Daugherty, a graduate of DeKalb Early College Academy (2016) and of Agnes Scott College (2019). She served as the President of Agnes Scott College’s Student Government Association for the 2017-2018 school year and this past summer, Amira worked for a Georgia Congressman and now serves as the Deputy Finance Director for Carolyn Bourdeaux’s campaign. Her professional accomplishments exemplify her ability to mix personal achievement and servant leadership. 

Amira says that 21st Century Leaders taught her to step out of her comfort zone in order to lead effectively. She aspires to become an attorney and run for public office!

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

My aspirations since I was a 21st Century Leader, is to become an attorney and run for public office and 2019 has been largely about ensuring these dreams come into fruition. This summer, I was named an MPAC Congressional Leadership Development Fellow and a Women’s Congressional Staff Foundation Scholar, both of which afforded me the opportunity to serve as an intern in the office of Congressman Hank Johnson. Currently, I serve as the Deputy Finance Director for Carolyn Bourdeaux, who is running for Congress to bring equity to healthcare, education, and accessible living.

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

21st Century Leaders’ training prepared me to be confident in a myriad of settings. From learning to present before Turner executives, to being trained on how to properly approach a standard three-course business dinner, 21CL exposed me to the world I am aiming to become a part of at a young age.

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 emphasized the importance of servant leadership both inside and outside of the classroom. As a student, I felt compelled to lead classroom discussions, help lay ground rules for constructive dialogue, and to approach projects from a different angle than expected. As a student leader, I joined organizations that were not directly aligned with my own issues, as 21CL reminded us to reach outside of our comfort zones in order to lead effectively. I ultimately rose to the position of SGA President, making me the first Muslim student in the school’s history to do so. 21CL’s belief in me was undoubtedly a part of my development into the type of leader who could take on that role.

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

I participated in both Leadership Unplugged:A CNN Experience and the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute (now the WarnerMedia Youth Media Institute). I gained a lot of insight on media, and how to properly navigate this world as an aspiring public servant.

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.?)

I made several life-long friends in 21CL, particularly from my work groups and teams! I am so inspired to see them still aspiring to lead in their communities, and it is such an honor to have been a part of their journey.

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 have always believed in the power of servant leadership, but 21st Century Leaders was one of the first organization to give me a name for it. Every position I have held has required me to sit back and listen far more than I speak, which has helped me better empathize with the people I serve. I believe that the training sessions I had in high school made me hyper-aware of the way taking the time to listen is such a powerful tool in a leader’s belt.

Alumni Spotlight: William K. Holley, IV

Our second spotlight for September is William K. Holley, IV a graduate of DeKalb Early College Academy (2016) and currently a computer science senior at Georgia State University. He has served as 21CL Youth Ambassador and regularly volunteers with many organizations including 21st Century Leaders. William has also worked our summer leadership team for our summer leadership institutes in 2018 and 2019. In his post, William shares how 21CL facilitated him to understand the power of diversity and shaped his leadership style.

Paint a brief picture of what you are doing now.

I am a Computer Science senior at Georgia State University. I am also the Digital Editor of The Signal (the official student newspaper of Georgia State University) and a Cartoon Network Digital QA Intern.

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

Participating in 21CL through student programs and leadership roles gave me the experience, knowledge, and confidence necessary to sculpt my current and future self.

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?

Every exercise, conversation, and interaction with 21CL is designed to prepare you for professional world. Easily the most impactful skill/tool/perspective was that of social interaction. One’s ability to deliver a message accurately, passionately, and with respect is translatable to every situation in life.

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

I participated in the summer institutes including, Turner Voices Youth Media Institute in 2014 during my tenure as a student member of 21CL. I also served as a Youth Ambassador from 2014-2016 during the school years and attended the school-year leadership summits and service projects. My ability to communicate a clear and concise message was definitely improved the most through those programs and opportunities.

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 most memorable moment in 21CL was definitely winning the Turner Voices Youth Media Institute (now YMI) program in 2014. I was in a state of awe and was not expecting to then present the pitch on stage in front of about 120 people.

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. From the day you begin your journey with 21CL you will witness firsthand how diverse this world truly is. People from all walks of life come together with a centralized goal to lead in their schools, communities, social lives, and professions. Understanding the power of diversity and how it makes us stronger as a unit is easily the greatest way 21CL assisted me in developing my leadership style. I no longer go into situations thinking just of myself, but now of who I am, who I represent, and how I can make a positive impact on everyone.

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.