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DeJaya Hardy

1x

Finalist

General information

Location
Miami Gardens, FL
Age
19
Gender
Female
US Citizenship
US Citizen
Ethnicity
Black/African
Religion
Christian
Church
Nondenominational

Hobbies & Interests

  • Drawing And Illustration
  • Public Speaking
  • Anime
  • Church
  • Writing
  • Reading

Reading

  • Fantasy
  • Adventure
  • Realistic Fiction

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

Three, two, one, go! Hello, this is DeJaya Hardy, reporting live to you. Since the 3rd grade, I knew that I wanted to pursue public speaking. It didn't matter how, and it didn't matter when, I had to get to it. Not only that, but by the 4th grade I also unlocked my more creative talent for traditional and digital art. I'm really passionate about public speaking and drawing, but I also love to read, write, and I'm a fast learner. Due to this, many have told me that I could excel at anything I dared to try. For as long as I can remember, I have gone above and beyond towards everything I put my mind to, and that will never stop. I'm organized, have great time management, responsible, respectful, a great leader, and know when to step back and be a follower. I hope to be a blessing to everyone I meet. And with that, this is DeJaya Hardy, signing off!

Education

University of Florida

Bachelor's degree program

2025 – 2029

Majors:
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
Minors:
  • Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
GPA3.6 GPA

Florida International University

Associate's degree program

2024 – 2025

GPA3.8 GPA

Miami Norland Senior High School

High School

2021 – 2025

GPA4.0 GPA

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Test scores:
  • SAT1290
  • ACT28
  • PSAT1290

Career

  • Intern Communications Assistant

    Public Relations and Communications · FIBER University of Florida

    Jan 2026 – Jan 2026

  • Intern Student

    Law Enforcement · Miami Norland - Legal Studies Program

    Jan 2023 – Jan 2024

  • Intern Secretary

    Mentoring · Girls of Transformation Mentorship Program

    Jan 2023 – Jan 2023

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Public Relations and Communications
Dream career goals:
Public Relations Manager
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
Joe Gilroy "Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan" Scholarship
With his motto “Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan,” Joe Gilroy inspired many to pursue their goals, including myself. In pursuit of these goals, I’ve learned to develop thorough, actionable plans and stick to them, which led me to become my high school’s valedictorian, earn my Associate of Arts degree before graduation, and start studying Public Relations at the University of Florida as a first-generation college student. Now, I’m looking forward to growing into being the top-tier in-house public relations professional I’ve always wanted to be while also helping students uncover their own educational and career opportunities. Here’s how I’ll do just that: 1) Graduate from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations along with a Leadership Minor and International Communication Certificate. Each semester, I aim to maintain a solid GPA while also gaining invaluable real-world experience through internships, leadership positions, and volunteering. To date, I’ve been a PAACT Peer Leader, completed various internships, and participated in different leadership programs, all of which have improved my writing abilities, public speaking prowess, skill sets on social media platforms, and more critical elements when working in the field of public relations. 2) Within six months after graduation, land a job doing full-time PR. My long-range goal is to become a Public Relations Manager, overseeing communication strategies, media relations, and community engagement initiatives for an organization whose mission positively affects others. During this time period, I intend to gain additional credentials, build my professional portfolio, grow my network, and stay involved in professional groups to ensure that my skills remain up to date. I’m the most passionate about contributing back to my community! In high school, I launched two of my own passion projects – Press On! (a journaling initiative that encouraged elementary school kids to share themselves through writing) and The Gardens Gazette (an online community newsletter that shared local events of my hometown, Miami Gardens, in a positive light). As a public relations pro, I hope to grow some of those initiatives into more structured experiences that give our youth (particularly first-gen collegiates) opportunities to build their confidence and learn about potential opportunities they might otherwise miss. Of course, all this comes at a cost… So what’s needed? Tuition assistance, housing, books, tech, transportation, professional attire, certification programs, club memberships (PRSSA), etc. I’d love to get all this done without going broke along the way. Annual ed-related costs? Let’s just say it totals up to around $25K per year when you factor in tuition + livelihood + transportation + tech + academic material needs + professional dev program participation. Scholarships are a huge part of making this all affordable! Finally, there are things that can go wrong. But there should always be ways to pivot from time to time. For instance, if I don’t land an awesome internship, I’ll keep working toward my goal by volunteering on different communications projects, doing freelance gigs, and participating in campus leadership activities. Also, if I haven’t landed a job post-graduation right away, I’ve got plans B & C that still lead me where I want to go if A doesn't work out. My plan has influenced who I have become and will guide how I navigate through life going forward. I’m confident I will be able to develop my dream career as an accomplished public relations professional by leveraging my education and experiences coupled with thoughtfully managed budgets. And, most importantly, I’ll create opportunities for others to fulfill theirs.
Marie Jean Baptiste Memorial Scholarship
“I come from a proud, Black family and generations of proud, Black women...” “...so I've always grown up with that special armor, that ability to be the only Black person in a room and keep my head up high…” “...because I feel like I'm representing a lot of Black people who aren't there.” Wise words from Jade Cargill, a Black-American woman born and raised in Florida, just like me. Growing up as a Girl Scout of Tropical Florida taught me that my sisters, my community, my family, and my heritage were never random parts of my identity. I was created to contribute, to make change, and to leave every place better than I found it. As I grew older, I realized that being "a sister to every Girl Scout" extends far beyond the organization. Every woman is my sister, every man is my brother, and we all deserve communities that believe in us. Growing up in Miami Gardens, I witnessed how my predominantly Black community was often defined by stereotypes instead of its strength. I wanted to help tell a different story. I founded The Gardens Gazette, Press On!, and The DeJaya Method to uplift local voices, encourage literacy, and help students pursue higher education. I have also served my community through Girl Scouts, ButterFLY Girls, South Florida National Achievers Society, Achieve Miami, and Key Club. Even in college, I volunteered closely with nonprofits Keep Alachua County Beautiful and Bread of the Mighty Food Bank through LeadUF and Path to Purpose. I volunteer because these communities are my home, and I believe even small acts of service can create lasting change. That same mindset guides how I contribute to my family. As the eldest daughter, I step into responsibility without being asked. Whether my parents need me to care for my younger sister and our family dog while they are away, keep our home running through daily chores, or simply make decisions they know they can trust, I do so because my family has always invested in me. My parents, neither of whom attended college, gave me every opportunity they could. As a first-generation college student and my high school class valedictorian, I have applied for and earned scholarships that have helped reduce the financial burden of my education while showing my younger sister what perseverance and education can accomplish. I hope my example reminds her that every dream is attainable through faith, discipline, and hard work. After college, I plan to use my education in Public Relations and Mass Communications to continue expanding The DeJaya Method while creating more programs to empower students from communities like Miami Gardens. Growing up, I did not have many professional Black women whose journeys reflected the future I dreamed of. Instead of waiting for that role model, I decided to become her. My greatest goal is to honor my family's sacrifices by serving others, proving that education opens doors, and helping the next generation walk through them with confidence.
Kristinspiration Scholarship
Education is important to me because it has given me the opportunity to become someone I never saw growing up. As a first-generation college student from Miami Gardens, Florida, I learned early that education is one of the most powerful tools for creating opportunity. It has allowed me to challenge limitations, pursue my passions, and create a path not only for myself, but for those who will come after me. To me, learning is than earning a degree to get a "good enough" job", it gives us the ability to break cycles. To prove that where you come from does not determine how far you can go. In my own humble beginnings, I rarely saw Black inidividuals, especially women, in media fields, such as the local news. I grew up being doubtful about whether Journalism and Mass Communications were really the fields I should try to be in when I clearly didn’t fit “the norm”. However, my perspective changed during a tour of WPLG Local 10 News station when I met anchor Alexis Frazier. For the first time, I saw a successful Black woman working in a position I dreamed of holding one day. Seeing someone who looked like me in that space was everything to me, showing me that my aspirations were possible and that my voice face did have a chance to be seen. From that moment forward, I promised myself that I would continue pursuing journalism and communications, not despite being a Black woman, but proudly because of it. That commitment led me to become heavily involved in journalism throughout high school. I joined my school's Journalism Club and eventually served as Editor-in-Chief. I created passion projects such as The Gardens Gazette, a publication dedicated to highlighting positive stories from my community, and Press On!, an initiative that introduced elementary school students to creative writing, storytelling, and self-expression. Through these experiences, I discovered that storytelling gives people an outlet that they may not already have, it is a way to share information between ourselves and help people see their value and recognize their potential. That is what Mass Communication means, right? Today, as a Public Relations student at the University of Florida, I continue building on that foundation. Education has given me the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities to pursue a career in communications while developing into a leader who can advocate for others. As I continue my education, I hope to gain the skills necessary to create meaningful campaigns, tell impactful stories, and increase representation in media and communications fields. The legacy I hope to leave is one of representation, empowerment, and possibility. Most importantly, I want to inspire my younger sister and other young women, especially Black women and other women of color, to believe that they belong in every educational and professional space they enter. The underrepresentation of Black people in many industries can make it difficult to believe in our own potential, which is why I want my journey to serve as proof that our dreams are valid, our voices matter, and our presence is needed. If one young girl sees my story and gains the confidence to pursue her own ambitions, then I will know I have created the kind of legacy that education made possible.
Khalil Mack 52 Scholars Program
“Good morning Miami Gardens, this is DeJaya Hardy, coming straight to you from the 305.” This was my hook for a long time, aiming to reel in both Miami Gardens residents and even non-residents while relaying news to them from a student’s perspective on my ‘self-made’ news station, the Gardens Gazette, to reinforce all of the milestones and fun activities that happen in a place very often scoffed at. This is because Miami Gardens is the largest predominantly African-American municipality in the state of Florida, with 75,000 Black residents. From the moment I was born, culture and its importance have been instilled into my brain, because of the Black traditions I grew up in and around. Growing up, I rarely saw Black voices represented in the media, especially Black women. I grew doubtful about whether Journalism and Mass Communications were really the fields I should try to be in when I clearly didn’t fit “the norm”. In middle school, I still eagerly joined a new TV Production program in 7th grade despite the thoughts in the back of my mind. I was one of only three African-American anchors among 40 students, and my work was rarely broadcasted on our school’s news projections, which hurt me incredibly because I was putting in the same amount of work as everyone else on my clips and edits. It wasn’t until 10th grade where I met Alexis Frazier during a WPLG 10 News Station tour that I finally found someone like me to be inspired and motivated by. From that moment, I vowed to persist in journalism as a Black female voice. In high school, I joined the Journalism Club and became Editor-In-Chief, while also making the Gardens Gazette. I was led to volunteer with elementary students, engaging with them to help nurture their own passions under another creative passion project of mine - Press On!. I was accepted into the University of Florida (UF) for my dream major, Public Relations, which UF is quoted to have the #1 University Public Relations Department across many official organization rankings. Being a Public Relations student allows me to combine my passions for journalism, public speaking, media management, and community advocacy, and I am also honored to have been approved for my new Leadership minor. In two or so years, I will be working towards my Master’s Degree in Mass Communications. I aim to use my education to amplify underrepresented stories, manage narratives that uplift my community, and create platforms that give others a voice. I understand the social impact words on a page or a person speaking can make. I want to explore a network of hospitable people who will not mind sharing their knowledge and paths with me as a peer. I have had multiple more experiences where my work was overshone by peers of other races and ethnicities. Even now, it is hard attending a college with a very small number of people of my own race, and it has been very hard for me to make real friends, connections, and relationships so far. Even still, these experiences have only boosted my resilience and determination to overcome challenges, and I truly believe the cultural awareness and knowledge gained through both school and personal experiences will help me be able to give back to others who also need that motivating role model. My goal has always been to use my skills and do everything I can to inspire others to be the best they can be, which of course means I must be the best I can be despite the odds.
Hearts on Sleeves, Minds in College Scholarship
For most of my life, my voice felt more like a whisper than a tool. I grew up painfully shy. A chronic people pleaser. A self-appointed doormat who believed that keeping quiet and saying "yes" to everyone kept the peace. I was the kid who knew the answer but never raised her hand, the teenager who accepted plans she didn’t want, and the young adult who let the world speak louder than she did. Ironically, I am now a Public Relations major, studying a field where the entire job is to amplify the voices of internal and external publics alike. My academic path challenges me daily: How can I uplift others if I’m still learning to speak up for myself? That tension surfaced sharply during Summer Preview at the University of Florida, my first real introduction to the campus I hoped to belong to. In my assigned group, I quickly noticed I was one of the only Black students. Surrounded by unfamiliar faces, already battling shyness, I folded inward. I didn’t participate in discussions, avoided eye contact, and pressed myself into invisibility. My thoughts stayed in my head, unspoken and unshared. By the end of the two-day program, my opinions were unheard, my personality unseen, and the experience (meant to be fun and welcoming) became a quiet disappointment. I left Preview realizing something uncomfortable: silence may feel safe, but it keeps you out of your own story. College offered me a rare opportunity, a blank page where no one knew the old DeJaya, the timid one. I decided that if I wanted a different college experience than the one Preview hinted at, I would have to step into it with purpose. So I sought out spaces where using my voice wasn’t just allowed - it was necessary. That journey led me to LeadUF and Path to Purpose, two programs within UF’s Brown Center for Leadership and Service. LeadUF was my first test. On day one, I could feel my old habits creeping back: observe, listen, shrink. But the program's nature didn’t allow for passive participation. In group activities, service planning, and reflection sessions, my team needed my insight. And slowly, almost quietly at first, I gave it. When our group completed community service with Keep Alachua County Beautiful, collecting 105 pounds of trash near a local middle school, I felt a shift. I wasn’t just contributing labor; I was contributing voice. This new, social me was offering ideas, helping lead discussions, and shaping the teamwork dynamic. And people listened. Because I spoke, I built friendships, gained confidence, and realized that my silence had never been a personality trait; it was a habit I could unlearn. Path to Purpose strengthened that transformation. The program pushed my leadership, delegation, communication, and presentation skills further than I expected. I helped create research presentations, worked with my team on strategic communication for Bread of the Mighty Food Bank, and collaborated with the community partner. Each task required speaking up - clearly, confidently, and often. Every week, I felt myself sharpen. My voice no longer trembled; it resonated. The same girl who once avoided group discussions was now helping lead them. What I’ve learned is simple: confidence is not the absence of fear - it is choosing impact over hiding. My past shyness shaped me, but it no longer defines me. As I grow into my PR career, I hope to use my voice not just to advocate for organizations, but to empower communities, uplift marginalized stories, and ensure that people who once whispered - people like me - are finally heard.
Scholar Budget Define Your Dream Scholarship
Turning my dreams into reality means doing more than just envisioning success—I’m building it, one step at a time. As a Black female from Miami Gardens and a first-generation college student, I know that dreams don’t come true by accident. They require effort, strategy, and unwavering belief. From a young age, I’ve nurtured my passion for communications, journalism, media, and leadership, and I’ve deliberately laid the groundwork to transform that passion into a fulfilling career in Public Relations. My plan begins with education. I’ve taken the initiative to challenge myself academically by enrolling in AP and Dual Enrollment courses, maintaining a 5.306 GPA, earning the Cambridge Advanced International Diploma with Merit, and earning my Associate in Arts degree before my high school graduation. I’ve researched top universities with strong Public Relations and Communications programs, particularly those with real-world application and internship opportunities. I chose to major in Public Relations because it blends my love for public speaking, writing, media strategy, and community outreach. The field allows me to shape how companies communicate with the world while ensuring that voices like mine—authentic, Black, and female—are represented in corporate spaces. Outside the classroom, I’ve already immersed myself in communication-based experiences. I serve as the Editor-in-Chief of my school’s newspaper, “The Viking Times,” where I oversee reporting, lead meetings, and guide our editorial direction. I’ve also led community journalism projects like The Gardens Gazette, dedicated to telling real stories about the people of my city, and Press On!, a journal drive community service project for local elementary school students. These initiatives sharpen my writing, public engagement, and leadership skills—critical tools for a future PR professional. Networking is another key part of my plan. I’ve already taken initiative to connect with professionals in the field, including a personal meeting with Zumba’s Home Office Senior Director of Consumer Marketing and an interview with Channel 7 News’ Brandon Beyer. These experiences taught me that relationships are just as vital as knowledge. In college, I plan to take full advantage of internship programs, communications labs, and media organizations on campus to further my exposure and gain hands-on experience with public messaging and brand management. But my plan isn’t just about my own success—it’s about representation. Growing up, I rarely saw Black women in media roles. That changed when I met Channel 10's Alexis Frazier, a news anchor who looked like me. She didn’t just inspire me—she proved that my dream was possible. Now, I want to be that example for others. My dream isn’t just to work in PR—it’s to lead in it, influence it, and open doors for the next generation. I want to change how corporations communicate with diverse audiences and bring authenticity to the forefront of brand identity. In every role I’ve taken—student, editor, volunteer, mentor—I’ve brought energy, purpose, and persistence. That’s how I plan to turn my dreams into reality: through preparation, passion, and purpose. I’m ready to do the work, face the setbacks, and rise to every challenge because I know that my future in Public Relations isn’t just a possibility—it’s a promise I’ve made to myself, my family, and my community.
Atwood Leadership and Service Scholarship
A while ago, I read a Bible Devotional that focused on leadership. It focused on the fact that leadership does not come from a title, and that title does not make anyone a good leader. The list may go on and on about what makes a good leader, but it is important to note that leaders know both how to lead and follow when necessary. They can break from crowds, stand out even when others don’t want to, and care for the people standing alongside them. Leadership does not always have be school, community, or career related, because personally, nothing has taught me more about being a leader than being an older sister. Which that large role in my life lead me to be a leader in both my community and school. As I would tell anyone, my life runs in the field of Journalism. Upon joining Journalism club in the 9th grade and and being appointed Editor-In-Chief that same year, I realized how much I love to write stories about the great things happening in and around our lovely school. I knew since elementary school that I was interested in Journalism and Communications for my career, but this made me even more sure. Being Editor-In-Chief taught me not only how to guide the group on the right path for the sake of the papers - but also how to make a family out of aspiring writers, photographers, and designers. Now in my 12th grade year, I am continuing strong with the paper, “The Viking Times”, and even created my own personal newspaper, “The Gardens Gazette”. "The Gardens Gazette", is one of many many senior projects. It is my gift to my majority African-American home city. I am journaling and reporting the news of my city, to my city, for my city. It is my self-made newstation that I hope to grow and cultivate with the greatness inside of my area that I have lived in my entire life. As the lead of this project, I hope that I am touching those who need recognition in my city - and those who need to see the recognition of those same people. These projects will forever be near and dear to my heart, and I only pray that I am doing the Black community, icluding myself, well-deserved justice. Besides that, I am also the College Assistance Program Ambassador, BigFuture Ambassador, and iPrep Ambassador (alongside many other positions) of my high school. I believe there is so much I can do to help my peers and community and I want to change the narrative of the Black community, Black youth specifically, in whatever way I can - in front of a camera, on TV, in writing, or even in a business meeting. I am very content with the specific major of Public Relations that I am aiming for. The whole point of Public Relations is to shape how the public sees a group or organization through the media and the world must know that all deserve to be encouraged - no matter anyone’s race - and I vow to be that ecourager. I vow to never give up on my overarching goal of being a Black female "face" in the media field, which is why I hope to share my views, talent, and everything else - bringing the diversity from Miami Gardens to my university community and beyond. Whether it is on the newspaper or marketing social media, I will be the girl to show everyone that anything is possible if you focus, work hard, and pray harder.
Concrete Rose Scholarship Award
Network. Broke? Encourage. No groceries? Still motivate. Me? Black representative. I will put this scholarship towards my college education funds and savings for my future career in Public Relations. More highly academic schools call to me more than others as I’ve done countless research on their Public Relations and Communications majors. However, they are normally the most expensive, so scholarships like these will help me achieve my goal of getting into a suitable college for myself as not only an African-American female, but also a first generation college student. There is nothing like coming from a family struggling to make groceries last, to becoming the first-generation, first-born daughter who makes her way to a college education and a worthwhile career. The underrepresentation of Black people in various fields can make it hard to believe in our own potential. Watching local news with my family, I only saw Hispanic and White reporters, which reinforced my doubts when I entered a Hispanic-dominated middle school. Even so, I happened to meet a well-known media figure in our community, Alexis Frazier, during a WPLG 10 News Station tour during the summer after my 10th grade year of high school. Looking back on this moment, it is clear that meeting an anchor who looked like me inspired me deeply. Ever since, I vowed to persist in journalism as a Black female voice. Each opportunity I embrace fuels my commitment to writing, media documentation, and all aspects of journalism. I have and others must learn that greatness can always be accomplished even in predominantly Black and racially-stereotyped places like my home city. Two ongoing projects right now that I have the honor of leading are "Press On!" and "The Gardens Gazette". Starting with "Press On!", it is a volunteer service project where I aid children at elementary school ages in the aspects of journalling - writing, reading, drawing, and any other creative skills that are tapped into. I knew journalism was my passion at their age, so I want to guide them to be creative thinkers as well, and maybe even find that some of them also share a similar passion to myself. As an older sister, this project speaks volumes to that fact of myself - working to support the generation of the future. Each child recieves their own personalized journal and hopefully - a gateway into their future. My second project, "The Gardens Gazette", is my gift to Miami Gardens, journaling and reporting the news of my city, to my city, for my city. It is my self-made newstation that I hope to grow and cultivate with the greatness inside of the Gardens I have lived in my entire life. As the lead of this project, I hope that I am touching those who need recognition in my city - and those who need to see the recognition of those same people. These projects will forever be near and dear to my heart, and I only pray that I am doing the Black community, icluding myself, well-deserved justice. This scholarship will do much for me and I am content with my career goals, and Public Relations as a whole. It will undoubtedly support me in all that I am trying to do. The whole point of Public Relations is to shape how the public sees a group or organization through the media and the world must know that all should be encouraged, and I will be that ecourager. I know a university level education will enlighten me on so many ways to change the way the media sees the Black community, including myself.
Simon Strong Scholarship
Three… Two… One… This is DeJaya Hardy, coming to you straight from South Florida, reporting some breaking news!! Growing up as a black female in Miami Gardens, I am the pinochle of the minority. The stereotypes about those like me will come and go. Magic City, Party City, and ghetto girls, there is so much more in my community than the nightlife, drug addicts, and violence. I went to elementary school here in my stomping grounds but transitioned to a middle school in Miami Lakes for its acclaimed educational reputation. There, I eagerly joined a new TV Production program in 7th grade. I thrived, making friends, creating skits and advertisements, and even anchoring morning announcements. Yet, despite my efforts, most of my work was overshone while classmates consistently took the spotlight. In a school where Hispanics dominated and were deemed the 'smart kids,' I never placed among them. COVID-19's arrival amplified everything. Now in 8th grade, virtual learning presented newer challenges; I got 2-3 projects on air monthly, whereas Hispanic students got every video. I was also expelled from being an NJHS member, although I was the previous year's Secretary, because I "was virtual". Hmm. Additionally, every time anyone at the school asked what high school I wanted to attend, and I responded, "Miami Norland Senior High," I was given faces and told not to go because it's supposedly 'ghetto' and I 'could do so much better than that'. My mom always recognized the unequal treatment I faced, though I only realized it recently. These experiences have shaped my resilience and determination to overcome obstacles in pursuit of my goals, ultimately leading me to defy everyone and still attend Miami Norland. It urks me that people would say these things about something they don't even know or have ever experienced. Everyone who tried to deter me from going was Hispanic; they have no clue what it's like wanting to go to a school for the 'Black Experience' or because it lies in the middle of your home in Miami Gardens. Going to Norland was the only way to overcome this adversity, being somewhere where the 'Black Mind' is always appreciated and displayed. Unbeknownst to them, I'm thriving at Miami Norland Senior High School and my life's passion for Journalism despite being overlooked in TV Production. I am now the Editor-in-Chief of Norland's newspaper, The Viking Times; when I graduate, I will have my High School Diploma, Cambridge Advanced International Diploma, and Associate in Arts Degree. All of which was earned for and worked at Miami Norland Senior High School. All credit goes to this school, the school that others tried to get me to ignore for such racist accusations. A school being 'Black' has nothing to do with all the endless possibilities to be achieved within its walls. HBCUs are great universities, so I believe Black high schools should be treated with the same love. To anyone else who is facing covert racism like I did, I want you to know that I see you, and I understand you. It hurts to see your work go to waste, not because of less intelligence or worth, but because you have a different background. Yet that background is what equips you to confront all odds and opinions held against you. Black is not bad. Brown is not bad. Red is not bad. Yellow is not bad. Everyone has their own stories to tell and passions to lead - I'm telling you right now - stand up; go for it, superstar. And with that, this is DeJaya Hardy. Good night, and be well.
Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
Wow, just today I read a Bible Devotional that focused on leadership. It focused on the fact that leadership does not come from a title, and that title does not make anyone a good leader. I’ve held a handful of titles in my life, but experience has shown me that some positions are handed to those in popular standing, but neglects those in prosperous standing. I show leadership everytime I volunteer to present my project first in class, let alone present at all. I show leadership everytime I work in a group setting and fufill my role to the group to the best of my abilities whether my peers do or not. I show leadership everytime I avoid peer pressure, instead finding my own path. The list may go on and on, but it is important to note that leaders know both how to lead and follow when necessary. Experienced leaders can break from crowds, stand out even when others don’t want to, and care for the people standing alongside them. Leadership does not even have to be school, community, or career related, because personally, nothing has taught me more about being a leader than being a sister and being a best friend. Sure, we may love each other, but when you are in the wrong it is my duty to let you know and even step away if I have to. I have lost multiple friends because I “am a goody two-shoes” or “I care too much” but someone has to be the one to step up and do the right thing - someone has to care enough to move forward in life, unlocking opportunities that may have never been found. The only thing I lost is my lack of self-confidence, because being a leader has taught me that I am my only real advocate and if I can’t even do that for myself, I am just as much a follower as the next person. But as far as I’m concerned, I know that I am the head and not the tail, and I will continue to live that way. I find it in myself to want to be a good leader because I know that there will always be people watching me, no matter is I'm in the front or the back - no matter if it's through rose-colored glasses or red ones. I do my best with my volunteering and assistance wherever it may be needed, because there is nothing more qualifying of a leader than someone who is willing to step off their podium for someone else. If nothing else, it is and has always been my life mission to ‘be good’. Yes, it’s simple, but it’s needed. Be a good person, be a good student, and be a good ‘DeJaya’. I will never understand everyone’s life story but I can allow myself to understand their humanness. From a humble perspective, I will never understand what big thing I did that caused my teachers or staff to continuously choose me for opportunities, awards, or place me in high standing. I will never understand why my classmates like to come to me before others when they need help on schoolwork, need someone to help them decide on things, or just want to talk and be friendly. However, I believe if I can just make one person inside this school’s day better, I have done what I was set to do. If I have to create a second home here for four years, why not walk in love and goodness? After all, it's the true way to lead.
Netflix and Scholarships!
In all honesty, I mainly watch the anime and animated shows on Netflix. However... one day I decided to move from my comfort zone and try something different. One movie in particular that priemered earlier this year caught my eye. Reading over the one-word tiltle, I remembered that my friend was just telling me about this movie in art class a few weeks prior. Grabbing my dinner and putting it on the den's TV with surround sound speakers - I clicked play. By the time the one hour and fourty-nine minute movie was over, I was elated. "Damsel" was nothing like I thought it would be - historical fiction, drama, maybe a few bad CGI deaths - no. The movie was surprisingly right up my alley. Oddly, I am enamoured with fictional creatures, and dragons are defintely one of the well known creatures. Khaevis, however, was nothing like any other dragon I've ever seen in a movie. She was so, so scary and horrifying but equally beatiful at the same time - which is how I would imagine a dragon to look in real life. I love the fact that Elodie and Khaevis are both strong female characters, up against each other for their own sound purposes. It's one thing to have a villian be a villan just because... but it's another thing to have an antagonist turned deuteragonist for a reason that makes sense and plays into the plot well. Elodie is a phenominal role to have played by Mrs. Millie Bobby Brown, a strong woman who doesn't need a man to survive, literally. Strong female leads in movies are crucial for several compelling reasons. Firstly, they provide representation and visibility for women, offering audiences diverse role models beyond traditional stereotypes. This portrayal not only empowers women but also inspires young girls to envision themselves in diverse and impactful roles. Secondly, strong female characters challenge and reshape societal norms, promoting gender equality by breaking down barriers and biases. They demonstrate that women can be assertive, complex, and capable leaders in their own right, contributing to a more inclusive and balanced portrayal of human experiences. Ultimately, by showcasing strong female leads, movies contribute to a cultural shift towards greater gender equity and provide narratives that resonate with a broad spectrum of viewers. It's easy to realize how good a movie has to be to have you screaming at the TV with a face full of rice because the male lead who you thought was nice and cute... turns out to be the evilest person alive. However... not all of the men are that way, much like real life. I appreciate that this movie is the relationship between Elodie and her father, as opposed to other movies where the father-daughter relationship isn't so great. I love the character development of Elodie's father finding his way into the cave to save her even though she was about to escape at that moment and he was the reason for her predicament in the first place. Elodie was able to save both her father, herself, and Khaevis by the end of the movie, and the revenge upon the royal family and the castle at the end was absolutely priceless. Damsel is without a doubt a 10/10 movie, I would watch it over and over again with no problem. From the realism yet ficticism of it all is wonderful, and I hope many more people watch it for years to come. Even though it is a "new-gen" Netflix Original movie, it still deserves love like any classic.
West Family Scholarship
Three… Two… One… This is DeJaya Hardy, reporting from South Florida with a message that delves into a critical social issue: justice for young Black women. Growing up in Miami Gardens, I've navigated a landscape where stereotypes about race, gender, and socio-economic status often overshadow the true essence of our community. But I am determined to challenge these stereotypes and advocate for the empowerment and equality of young Black women through my work in journalism and communications. From an early age, my passion for storytelling has been intertwined with a drive to amplify voices that are frequently marginalized or silenced. Journalism, for me, is not merely a career path—it is a calling to bring truth and empathy to the forefront of public discourse. In today's media environment, where narratives shape perceptions and policies, I see an opportunity and a responsibility to dismantle stereotypes and highlight the resilience and potential of underserved communities like mine. My journey in community service began with the Girl Scouts, where I learned the transformative power of giving back. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to various initiatives—from environmental projects to mentoring younger students and supporting local businesses. These experiences have solidified my commitment to service and taught me that even the smallest actions can create meaningful change. In high school, I view my community not just as a place of education, but as a second home where every individual contributes to shaping our collective environment. My personal mission has always been rooted in kindness and integrity, whether I am advocating for social justice, supporting peers, or fostering a culture of inclusivity. I believe in leading by example, striving to make a positive impact without seeking personal recognition. As I hone my skills in oratory, writing, and media, I am committed to using my voice to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard. Whether through public speaking, writing articles, or engaging online, I aim to foster understanding and inspire meaningful change. My vision for the future is deeply influenced by the Girl Scout Law's ethos of making the world a better place. This principle guides my actions and underscores my dedication to public service. While I do not seek fame or fortune, I am driven to leave a lasting legacy by promoting unity, empathy, and mutual respect within my community and beyond. As I pursue a career in public relations and media, I recognize the profound impact of storytelling in shaping public opinion. My goal is to use these skills to highlight stories of hope, resilience, and progress within marginalized communities, challenging stereotypes and advocating fiercely for social justice, particularly for young Black women who face intersecting challenges of race and gender discrimination. In conclusion, my mission is clear: to be a voice for the voiceless, a tireless advocate for equality, and a catalyst for positive change. Through my dedication to service, commitment to education, and passion for storytelling, I aspire to inspire others to join me in building a more inclusive and compassionate world. This is DeJaya Hardy, signing off with a call to action: let us all strive for goodness and empathy in everything we do. Good night and be well.
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
Three… Two… One… This is DeJaya Hardy, coming to you straight from South Florida, reporting some breaking news!! Growing up as a black female in Murder Gardens, or rather Miami Gardens, I am the pinochle of the minority. The stereotypes about those like me will come and go. Magic City, Party City, and ghetto girls, there is so much more in my community than the night-life, drug-addicts, and violence. Including the many bright minds who are aiming to make their mark on the world. Determned to be one of the bright, black, and beautiful minds, I have already begun in doing everything I can to make a positive impact on the world. My specialty lies in Journalism and Communications, I am a well experienced writer, orator, and media editor. Especially in this generation, the media is able to portray anything in any kind of way. It is the biggest source of information on the planet, which is why I aim to become an outlet of positivity upon my journey on the path of Public Relations and the related formerly mentioned fields. As a former Girl Scout, all I know is volunteering and community service. I've helped to plant gardens for local schools, done multiple beach and park clean-ups, read and donated books/toys to elementary students, crafted dresses and blankets for the impoverished, volunteered and interned as the secretary of the CEO for the 'Girls of Transformation' company, and worked as a cafe helper at the one and only Miami Gardens Hard Rock Stadium. I live to help others, which is why I'm sometimes called a doormat - but I'd rather be a doormat than walk over others. More importantly - my high school IS also my community - I believe every student impacts their school whether they are or aren’t aware. Plus... everyone needs a break: teachers manage hundreds of students, administrators handle thousands, and students themselves deal with everyone. If nothing else, it is and has always been my life mission to ‘be good’. Yes, it’s simple, but it’s needed. Be a good person, be a good student, and be a good ‘DeJaya’. I strive to understand each person's humanity, offering support where I can. I never aimed to be a huge and famous leader in service or leave a grand impact; my goal is only to uphold my personal morals. Remaining true to my principles, understanding that my actions speak louder than any words. I aim to be humble, so I believe if I can just make one person inside this school’s day better, I have done what I was set to do. High school is my second home; I chose to foster love and goodness. While my efforts may seem little beside larger charities and actions, this is my personal initiative—a one-woman mission in serving my community, my school, my home, when others may not. Again, I am aiming to continue this path of personal growth - with my obtained oratory, writing, work ethic, organizational, networking, time-mangament, and social skills, I have no doubt that I am the best candidate for tackling any goal, including making the world better than I found it. The line in the Girl Scout Law is "...to make the world a better place...", and I remember and stand by it all these years later. To be the voice of the people, for the people is my desire; whether it be through my writing, speaking to a crowd, over a broadcast, in person helping around, or on a social media page. And with that, this is DeJaya Hardy. Good night and be well.
Spider-Man Showdown Scholarship
"You're the best of all of us, Miles. You're on your way. Just keep going." Spoken from one uncle to nephew, though the relationship was more of father and son. Words spoken because being a part of the minority is hard. Being Black is hard. Being Latino is hard. Being a teenager is hard. Being your world's greatest superhero all by yourself - the entire weight of the world on your shoulders - is hard. Nothing is more representative than walking into the movie theater on June 11, 2023, and seeing an Afro-Latino teenage boy taking center stage on the screen. I remember walking out of the movie theater that day feeling empowered, as if I was Spider-Man. Although some may argue that Miles himself is animated and, therefore, not played by an actor, I say: "Everyone keeps telling me how my story is supposed to go. Nah... I'ma do my own thing." Mr. Shameik Moore is just as much an actor as the rest of the bunch on the web. He's not different because his character is animated or because he's Jamaican-American; he still plays a Spiderman—a culturally revolutionary one. Miles has a certain swag, an aura about him embraced fully by his voice actor. From his shoes to his updated costume, Miles is the dimensional travel watch's portal from the screen to us. We can't swing on webs, or use his cool venom powers, but we can be heroes in our own communities. Our own Earth-1610. It doesn't matter how old we are, the color of our skin, the language we speak, the history of our heritage, what dimension we come from, or if someone has the audacity to think that we are an anomaly, a non-canonical mistake. "Wherever you go from here, you have to promise to take care of that little boy for me. Make sure he never forgets where he came from. And he never doubts that he's loved. And never lets anyone tell him that he doesn't belong there. You've gotta promise, Miles." I'm sure there are Black teenagers like me, relating to Miles more than I'd like to admit for reasons not so pretty. Constantly trying to prove myself, to make my parents proud, to be the best at what I do. Academics, extracurriculars, awards, honors, accolades - I must be perfect. But Miles is not, I am not, nobody is. We constantly make mistakes and fall, but Miles shows us that it's okay to fall when we do. Brush your shoulders off and try again. "It's because I thought, if you knew, you wouldn't love me the same. And then I went out there, and now I'm not afraid of anything." As a self-proclaimed artist, Moore's role stands out to me more than any of the other Spider-Men. Although he is an adult, this movie captivates all audiences, but as a teenager, I feel the most marketed towards. Think of the music, with African-American and Latino tones, the flashy and beautiful art that must have taken years to craft, and each character's cultural diversity. Now in the 2020s, this movie was needed and it was iconic in its production. Moore, along with his team, did a fantastic job during this movie, and I can't wait for Beyond the Spiderverse to premiere. "Okay, let's do this one last time, yeah? For real, this time. This is it. My name is Miles Morales. I was bitten by a radioactive spider, And for, like, two days, I've been the one and only Spider-Man. I think you know the rest." Spoken from one hero to another.
Jennifer Hartwig Scholarship
Three… Two… One… Good morning, World! This is your host, DeJaya Hardy, here to share her love for the best interest field: journalism. I believe journalism is the most important field because the world grows on information and news. From newspapers to TVs to smart devices, the field continues to grow. As an aspiring journalist, being the voice of the people, for the people, is my desire; whether it be through my writing, speaking to a crowd, over a broadcast, or on a social media page. For this reason, I believe pursuing journalism is the best way to connect person to person through the flourishing media. I am aiming to continue on my path of personal growth, both with writing and speaking, to prepare for my major in the field. No matter what college I decide to attend, I have no doubt that I am the best candidate for tackling any goal, including college acceptance and my later occupational journey. My high school GPA of 5.25 reflects my dedication and hard work. This scholarship will help me financially as college is expensive for my generation of students. As a first-generation and African-American female student, I want to have a greater education to pursue my field. It would be such an honor to receive this scholarship, but either way, I will not stop working to obtain my goals. I have been a morning announcements anchor from 3rd to 8th grade, taken TV Production I and II, Yearbook, Journalism, Interpersonal Communication, Social Media Brand Management, and Dual Enrollment Public Speaking to further my knowledge of my passion. I have also been in the Journalism club since my 9th grade year, and I have been the Chief Editor for three years now. I am over the production of our school’s newspaper, distribution, and the newspaper’s social media page. In my confidence, I am always the first to volunteer for presentations or speeches and look happily for any critiques. During the summer of 2023, I was able to visit the WPLG Local 10 news station through my summer internship, which allowed me to meet and speak with broadcasting icons Alexis Frazier, Jenise Fernandez, and Kristi Krueger. My involvement in community service, such as organizing a park clean-up at Norwood Park and participating in various Girl Scout projects, has taught me the importance of giving back. Being a part of the National Achievers Society and Key Club has allowed me to contribute to meaningful projects like handmade blankets for the less fortunate and craft making for doctors and patients. Much like journalism gives back to the community, I have done so with my own hands as well. In conclusion, journalism is my passion, and I am committed to using my skills to make a positive impact on the world. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden of college and help me continue my journey in journalism. Thank you for taking the time to view this one-time, live broadcast. And with that, this was DeJaya Hardy. Good night and be well.
Harry Potter and the Sorting Hat Scholarship
Being a heavy Potter-Head since my elementary years (and having all seven books and my own robe by the 4th grade), it feels natural to say that I have already done quiz upon quiz to see what house I would be sorted into. From Ravenclaw to Hufflepuff, slightly Slytherin, and Ravenclaw again, it seems like the online Sorting Hat can't make up its mind. But I can share my own opinion. For me, Ravenclaw will always and forever be my house. Hopefully. Although the main focus of the Harry Potter series is on Gryffindor and Slytherin, I don't mind enjoying my bronze and blue on the sidelines. Ravenclaws tend to be wise and eager to learn and I would think that I can fit right in with Cho Chang and Luna Lovegood. I always love to give my brain a challenge, which includes taking rigorous courses such as AP, Dual-Enrollment, and Cambridge. I don't take these courses just for the fun of them, I take them and I give my absolute all towards them. The mindset of making sure I go above and beyond normally leads me to be at the top of every single class I take. Others will ask me where my motivation comes from or how I'm so good with my time management, and all I reply with is, "Don't let any second you could use to do something productive pass you by,". I am self-motivated and when I don't give my best towards something I can tell. "Put your best foot forward," is a quote I essentially live by. When your strongest foot goes first, it gives the support needed for your other foot, and the steps to come, to follow. There is no way you will be able to go wrong and slip. As for the curious side of Ravenclaws, I like to learn about everything that I can get my hands on, even when I think I'm not going to use it later. I find that knowing a little about everything can take you a long way, whether it leads to finding opportunities or making new connections. This is why I have a plethora of books in my room, like a mini library, of all different genres and time periods. I'm glad that Ravenclaw has its own collection of books in the common and dorm rooms, more knowledge for me! I would also consider myself to be very creative. I know how to use both the left and right hemispheres of my brain and can use multiple routes to get to the same end goal. For instance, when I have a presentation to do, I like to use all of my talents. First comes the deep research, cited and knowledgeable, with facts I know people wouldn't normally know. Then when my turn comes, I stand up with a strong posture, speak with clear projection and good eye contact, and make sure the slideshow itself is aesthetically pleasing. Normally this includes adding my own spin like my artwork or doodles, or just little pictures that match nicely with the colors. Sometimes I'll even dress professionally or bring my own props. I didn't lie when I said that I like to go above and beyond. Overall, I believe that I am a Ravenclaw who you would see carrying 500-page textbooks and a notebook to every one of her classes. Whether or not this truly aligns with the call of the online or real Hogwarts Sorting Hat, I know that this is who I would be in this Wizarding World.
DeJaya Hardy Student Profile | Bold.org