The Africa in April Festival in Memphis, Tennessee, is a community event celebrating African heritage and culture. It brings thousands of people together downtown each spring to honor an African nation. As a drummer of the Mandekalou drumming group, I specialize in playing traditional West African djembes at the festival and have performed on stage with African dignitaries from countries like Ghana and Nigeria. This experience is meaningful to me because it connects identity and expression, while fostering a sense of belonging and unity. When I play the djembe, I honor my ancestors and preserve a cultural tradition. Mandekalou gives young Black voices a platform to express our history through drum rhythms that are spiritual, cultural, and deeply unifying. Africa in April is not just an event, but a transformative experience that opens a space for learning and ethnic pride. It brings together people of all backgrounds and ages to experience African culture firsthand. I have seen kids pick up a drum and feel empowered, and elders tear up hearing rhythms that resonate with them and bring them pride. This festival unifies communities, uplifts others, and inspires hope for the future. Being part of Mandekalou has been a journey of personal growth, discipline, responsibility, and leadership. The preparation behind every performance takes commitment. We train, study the history behind each rhythm, and hold ourselves to a high standard. That discipline carries over into how I serve in other areas—whether it's in school, church, or community work. I represent my culture with pride and purpose, and this journey of learning and growth is what the festival is all about. Looking forward, I envision Africa in April expanding beyond being a festival into a beacon of cultural education and empowerment year-round. I would love to see more partnerships with schools and youth programs—bringing drum and dance workshops to classrooms, mentoring young musicians, and offering more space for Black youth to explore their roots through the arts. We need more platforms that remind us of where we come from and push us toward where we can go. For me, participating in this event isn't about attention or applause. It is about impact. It is about using culture to connect people and remind them of their strength. The Africa in April Festival has been instrumental in shaping how I see myself as a young man rooted in history, driven by purpose, and committed to making a difference. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities it has provided for personal growth and the sense of community it has fostered. That is why this event matters, and I will keep showing up—drum in hand, heart in it fully—to contribute to something lasting for my community.

The head of my school, a leader of great respect and inspiration, is battling pancreatic cancer. For centuries, this diagnosis was a death sentence. But today, science is allowing people like him to create more memories with those who love him. Advances in medicine, targeted treatment, and early detection are making a difference. His fight and resilience are a testament to the power of science to give hope where there used to be none. Since elementary school, I have been interested in the STEM subjects, where critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential. I enjoy finding creative solutions to problems, which have proven valuable in STEM fields. My thirst for knowledge drives me to explore topics and helps me grasp complex concepts. With hard work and commitment, I am confident that I can achieve my educational goals. The journey through college and medical school will require endurance, discipline, and perseverance. I had the privilege of attending engineering camps at Tuskegee University and Tennessee State University and medical camps at the Black Men in White Coats Annual Summit and Baptist Health Science University. I connected with Black engineers and doctors and shadowed a cardiologist for a week. I became the first Youth Leader of Black Men in White Coats, an organization of black medical doctors who strive to increase Black representation in the medical field. These experiences inspired me to make a meaningful impact in engineering and medicine. Since childhood, my passion has been helping people. Community service has not only instilled in me a sense of responsibility for the well-being of individuals, but also a deep empathy for those in need. By becoming an empathetic and caring doctor, I want to contribute to the betterment of the community and be a source of encouragement for those around me. My passion for STEM is not just a career choice but my life's purpose. Upon graduation, I plan to attend Mississippi State University and major in biomedical engineering with the pre-med pathway. I aspire to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist or cardiologist, utilizing my engineering and medical knowledge to improve patient care. In the future, I plan to significantly impact my community by helping others through STEM initiatives. I am particularly committed to addressing the disparities in health that exist in underserved communities. I intend to promote health awareness, mentor students, and collaborate with schools to increase access to STEM resources. Partnering with organizations like the Black Men in White Coats chapter of Memphis, which has influenced my journey, will be a key part of my efforts. I want to use my knowledge of STEM to inspire students to achieve their dreams and unlock pathways for future innovators.

Putting Jesus first is an ongoing and daily commitment. It is easy for a teenager to get caught up in school, sports, friends, and personal gratification. However, because of my relationship with Jesus Christ and the overwhelming amount of selfishness and hatred in the world, I see the importance of putting Jesus first, others second, and myself third. I realized this through coordinating and implementing outreach ministries to the unhoused population in Memphis, TN. Early on Saturday mornings, when I could be sleeping in or playing video games, I led a group of teens to go downtown or into neighborhoods where people lived on the streets. We prayed, talked, and shared the love of Jesus. My faith as a Christian is a driving force behind my passion for helping others and serving my community. Through my involvement in community service, I have developed a strong sense of responsibility for the well-being of humanity. I have made a tangible difference through my work with my local church. Since 2016, I have led several outreach projects in Memphis, TN, including distributing 500 blessing bags to local homeless shelters and serving 400 unsheltered individuals on a mission trip to Atlanta, GA. These initiatives have provided essential resources for underserved populations and fostered a sense of community support. My commitment to service will continue to guide my future career, ensuring that I always work for the common good and make a positive impact. Matthew 25 connects directly to what I do through the ministry for people experiencing homelessness. When I serve others, I serve Jesus. Although it may be convenient and comfortable for me to do other things, I put Jesus first when I let my light shine by serving those without shelter. This faith in Jesus and his teachings guides my actions and gives me confidence in my chosen path. I also empathize with the friends I have encountered through this ministry. I cannot imagine not having a home, a safe place to sleep, or enjoying a home-cooked meal with my family. When I walk the streets on those winter mornings, passing out blankets and blessing bags, I am obeying Jesus and putting the needs of others before my comfort. This experience taught me that it is not about being seen or applauded but loving God and people. And in this love, I find joy and fulfillment. Wherever God leads me, I want to remember: Jesus first, others second, and myself third. It may not always be easy, but I will keep this perspective by recognizing the word of Christ and the faces of those I have encountered while ministering. I am grateful for how God has shaped me, and I am excited about how He will keep working in my life. This journey has taught me so much, and I hope it inspires others to embark on their path of faith and service.

Every once in a while, we encounter someone who leaves an indelible mark on our lives. Some teachers teach a subject, and others shape students' lives. For me, that person was my AP Calculus teacher, Mrs. Meagan Bolling, whose profound influence transformed not just my academic journey but my entire approach to life. I expected a strict, numbers-only environment. Instead, I found a teacher who genuinely cared about her students' minds and hearts. From a young age, I was eager to answer questions in class, and if I did not know the answer, I was driven to find it. I enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving, which involve finding creative solutions. Mrs. Bolling patiently explained complex concepts and embraced my curiosity and inquisitive questions. She helped me master new math concepts, and her confidence in me encouraged me to excel academically. As a result, I was honored to receive an academic award recognizing my achievement for earning a superior grade in her AP Calculus class, which will be valuable in STEM. What I admire most about Mrs. Bolling is how she balances her many roles without compromising the excellence she demonstrates in her work. She is a full-time teacher, a school nurse, a St. Jude Children's Research Hospital nurse, and a devoted mom. She always shows up for her sons, just like her students. Her presence in our lives is meaningful, and she manages all her responsibilities with the same energy and warmth. She taught me a valuable lesson: you do not have to choose between ambition and compassion; you can live out both. One day in class, I asked her how she managed it all. She smiled and said, "When you care, you find the energy." That stuck with me. When I feel overwhelmed as a student, athlete, leader, and community volunteer, I remind myself of her words. I keep going because Mrs. Bolling taught me that servant-leadership comes from the heart and is about the love, care, and dedication you put into it.  Mrs. Bolling might never fully understand her impact on students, especially me. However, I follow her modeled path whenever I show compassion in my outreach work, overcome challenges, and serve others with a selfless heart.  Reflecting on my high school journey, it becomes clear that her influence extends beyond the classroom. Her unwavering dedication to teaching and genuine care for students have left an impression on my life. Through her guidance, I learned the importance of perseverance, empathy, and the pursuit of knowledge. I will major in biomedical engineering in college and pursue a career as a cardiologist. Mrs. Bolling taught me that the heart behind my career is just as important as the scientific aspect of healing. Her lessons have inspired me to approach life with purpose and determination. As I move forward, I carry with me the teaching and education she imparted, and I am forever grateful for her profound impact on my personal and academic growth.

In the award-winning film Dead Poets Society, an extraordinary teacher reminds his students to “seize the day,” which resonates with me because it means I am responsible for my life. It is easy to let others tell you what success looks like. It is harder to ask yourself what kind of life you want and then commit to building it. Dead Poets Society follows a group of students at a strict boarding school whose lives are changed by an English teacher, Mr. Keating, who fuels a motivation for poetry. He challenges them to think for themselves, value their voices, and live purposefully instead of just checking boxes. His emphasis on individuality and purposeful living inspired me to embrace the perspective of using what I learn to create real change. The movie's captivating message influenced my decision to study biomedical engineering in college and pursue a medical career. I believe comprehensive healthcare should be accessible to everyone. Also, I am committed to creating a meaningful impact by mentoring younger students, addressing health challenges in underserved communities, and partnering with schools to increase accessibility to STEM resources. Mr. Keating, in Dead Poets Society, was a beacon of the transformative power of education. He was resolute in his mission not to let the odds confine or define his students' potential. He believed that success was not a product of one’s background but of passion, persistence, and hard work. Education has empowered me to excel and realize my potential. I was privileged to have influential teachers like Mr. Keating, who profoundly shaped me in many ways and helped me build the confidence to achieve my goals. Their teaching methods deepened my understanding of subjects while sparking my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Their encouragement has been instrumental in my academic journey, personal development, and growth. The movie also conveyed that life does not pause, so we should not waste time. That mindset helped me take on leadership roles, such as collaborating with the Black Men in White Coats to increase the representation of Black medical professionals. I also mentored elementary students and actively participated in my community through volunteering at local homeless shelters. My community involvement has not only shaped my character but also allowed me to make a tangible difference. Dead Poets Society was released in 1989 and continues to captivate audiences over generations. Its inspiring message has instilled in me a profound understanding: I am not merely seeking a degree; I am seizing the opportunity to make valuable contributions to the STEM field and drive change. The film's key takeaway fuels my determination to make a lasting impact.

LeBron James is the NBA's G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time)! I admire him for his composure and quiet leadership. His career demonstrates that actions speak louder than words. He has set the standard and raised the bar for excellence. LeBron doesn't need to talk trash or chase headlines; he proves his value through focus, preparation, and performance. His long tenure in the league showcases his tenacity to excel beyond measure. My journey, much like LeBron's, is one of personal growth and self-discovery. I am driven to find answers to questions in class and to explore strategies in the sports I play. I enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving, which involve discovering creative solutions. My thirst for knowledge motivates me to delve into various subjects, helping me grasp complex concepts. LeBron demonstrates persistence and mental toughness, pushing through challenges on the court and in life. The lessons I have learned from him have not only inspired me to try new things but also encouraged me to confront intimidating situations. He has motivated me to push past my limits while facing physical and mental challenges on the Varsity Cross Country and Soccer teams, and I have grown immensely from these experiences. My athletic journey has not only honed my physical skills but also instilled in me important values. Every year, I train to become stronger and dedicate time to improving my skills and endurance so that I can compete against some of the best athletes in the region. I have proven to myself that with commitment, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. I have learned values like discipline, resilience, work ethic, and teamwork, shaping me as an athlete and a leader like LeBron. I also learned from him that respect comes from consistency, not hype. I have earned recognition for my efforts, including the Harding Academy Heart of a Lion Award for outstanding sportsmanship, the Harding Academy Iron Lion Award for immense dedication and improvement in sports training, and the Harding Academy 3-Sport Athlete Award for excelling in at least three sports in one school year. I am also the captain of the Varsity Soccer team, a role I take great pride in. Like LeBron, I am passionate about helping others by serving my community. Since 2016, I have led several outreach projects in Memphis, TN, including distributing 500 blessing bags to local homeless shelters and serving 400 unsheltered individuals during a mission trip to Atlanta, GA. I have also volunteered at my church's Annual Christmas and Thanksgiving Outreach events, supporting over 400 families in the Westwood community in Memphis. These initiatives have provided essential resources for underserved populations and fostered a sense of community support. King LeBron is a role model, iconic basketball legend and a remarkable humanitarian. He has broken records, exceeded expectations, and elevated the game. He leads with integrity, compassion, and fortitude. I plan to carry that same mindset, character, and grit through college, medical school, and beyond to achieve my goals.

Since elementary school, I have been interested in STEM. I did not see many people who looked like me in STEM fields, so my heritage drives my commitment to making a meaningful impact in addressing challenges in underrepresented communities. From my experience and the amazing individuals who inspired me, I witnessed firsthand the significance of diversity in STEM. It all began with Dr. Melissa Collins, an award-winning educator and elementary school teacher, who stimulated my passion for STEM. She has profoundly impacted me in many ways and helped me build the confidence to achieve my goals. She taught me to defy stereotypes and believe success is driven by passion, persistence, and hard work, not ethnicity or background. She guided me in creating a pinball machine for a school STEM event. She introduced us to African American STEM professionals, which later inspired me to attend engineering camps at two HBCUs---Tuskegee University and Tennessee State University, as well as medical camps at the Black Men in White Coats Annual Summit and Baptist Health Science University. I connected with Black engineers and doctors and shadowed a cardiologist for a week. They have influenced me to make a meaningful impact on STEM. The Black Men in White Coats is a group of black medical doctors who strive to increase Black representation in the medical field, and I am the first Youth Leader of the Memphis chapter. These experiences significantly impacted my aspirations to study biomedical engineering with the pre-med pathway in college and pursue a career as a cardiologist or anesthesiologist. The mentorship and academic camps I attended connected students from underrepresented backgrounds with professionals in STEM fields to provide guidance, support, and inspiration. My experience also exposed me to diverse professionals in STEM careers and taught me the importance of STEM education. Educators like Dr. Collins provide an inclusive curriculum that highlights contributions from diverse scientists and engineers. She enlightens students on concepts in STEM. She also engages with communities to raise awareness about STEM opportunities and encourage participation from diverse groups. Diversity is necessary because gaining different perspectives lead to better solutions. When people from different backgrounds and experiences come together, they bring unique viewpoints that can lead to innovative and effective solutions. Promoting diversity in STEM fields helps to ensure that these careers are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. A diverse workforce in STEM can help tackle specific issues that underserved communities face, leading to more equitable outcomes. Colleges and universities can offer scholarships and internships for students from diverse backgrounds to reduce financial barriers and encourage them to pursue STEM careers. I hope to honor the legacy of Julia Elizabeth. As a member of the NAACP, I plan to advocate for increasing representation in STEM careers. I want to use my engineering and medical knowledge to improve patient care. In the future, I plan to help others through STEM initiatives by promoting health awareness, mentoring students, and collaborating with schools to increase access to STEM resources. Partnering with organizations like the Black Men in White Coats chapter of Memphis will be a key part of my efforts. I want to use my knowledge of STEM to inspire students to achieve their dreams and unlock pathways for future innovators.

My dad loves sharing the story of how he enlisted into the United States Air Force in May 1994 at the age of 17. He discussed the news with his mother who was apprehensive to sign the release form for him to join the miliary because he was young. He shared with her that he was certain of his decision, so he would enlist once she signed the form, or once he turned 18 in June. My grandmother agreed, and he left for bootcamp to San Antonio, TX, a life-changing experience. Later, he was stationed overseas in Turkey, facing new cultures and languages. He returned to the states to Cheyenne, Wyoming, where he was honorably discharged in 1998. My dad has fond memories of his military career and the bonds formed while serving. He shared with us that his time in the service was a pivotal period in his life, with personal development and growth. He is a proud veteran, and his dedication to duty and sacrifice exemplified the values of service and patriotism. Since his discharge, my father's commitment to service has only grown. His passion for outreach and evangelism has extended his ministry globally, and his leadership has been transformative in community and church revitalization. His unwavering dedication to faith and community upliftment has left an indelible mark on all who know him, inspiring us with his selflessness. My father's influence on my life has been profound. His commitment to helping others, especially those who cannot advocate for themselves, has instilled a deep sense of responsibility in me. His embodiment of selfless service aligns perfectly with my aspiration to become a cardiologist, where I can combine my passion for medicine with serving underserved communities. His influence on my career choice is a testament to the depth of our connection. Like my father, I am filled with excitement as I approach the next phase of my journey at the age of 17. Upon graduation, I will attend Mississippi State University and major in biomedical engineering with the pre-med pathway. I am optimistic about the challenges that the journey to college and medical school will bring, knowing that the endurance, discipline, and perseverance I have learned from my father will serve me well as I pursue my educational goals. I plan to join engineering clubs, be involved in extracurricular activities, cultivate leadership skills, build lasting relationships, and make a meaningful impact through community service. I plan to stay connected to Memphis's Black Men in White Coat chapter. I am excited to explore more of my life’s purpose in college and beyond while continuing to grow. I intend to seize opportunities that enrich my personal development and prepare me to contribute meaningfully to society.

My passion for STEM is not just a career choice but my life's purpose. Upon graduation, I plan to attend Mississippi State University and major in biomedical engineering with the pre-med pathway. I aspire to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist or cardiologist. I want to use my engineering and medical knowledge to improve patient care, especially in underserved communities. I am excited about learning and enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving, especially when finding creative solutions to problems. With hard work and commitment, I can achieve my educational goals. I know the journey through college and medical school will require endurance, discipline, and perseverance. I had the privilege of attending engineering camps at Tuskegee University and Tennessee State University and medical camps at the Black Men in White Coats Annual Summit and Baptist Health Science University. I have had the honor of connecting with Black engineers and doctors and shadowing a doctor specializing in cardiovascular diseases for a week. These experiences have inspired me to continue broadening my exposure in engineering and the medical field. My faith has inspired my devotion to serving communities. As the Youth President of the Progressive National Baptist Convention Southern Region, I have focused on social justice, equality, and service to humanity. From 2016 to 2025, I led several outreach projects in Memphis, TN, distributing 500 blessing bags to local homeless shelters and serving 400 unsheltered individuals on a mission trip to Atlanta, GA. I also volunteered at our church’s Annual Christmas and Thanksgiving Outreach events for over 400 families in the Westwood community in Memphis, TN. These initiatives provided essential resources for underserved populations while fostering community support. Since childhood, my passion has been to help people. Community service has instilled in me a sense of responsibility for the well-being of individuals. I genuinely desire to contribute to the betterment of the community and to be a source of encouragement for others. I hope my acts of love and compassion inspire others to do the same. In the future, I plan to significantly impact my community by helping others through STEM initiatives. I aim to promote health awareness, mentor students, and collaborate with schools to increase access to STEM resources. Partnering with organizations like the Black Men in White Coats chapter of Memphis, which has influenced my journey, will be a key part of my efforts. This organization strives to increase Black representation in the medical field. I am currently a part of this organization’s chapter, serving as its first youth representative. Giving back is not a choice for me; it is my passion.

Being recognized on Senior Night as a dedicated member of the Cross Country Team for four years was a defining moment in my unique story, illustrating what success truly means to me. While on the team, I faced physical and mental challenges that required me to push past my limits. When I first joined the team as a ninth grader, I was an inexperienced runner and one of the youngest. Eager to improve, I asked my teammates for advice and grew stronger with each season. I endured early morning practices, long-distance runs, and competing against some of the best athletes in the region. I also strived to improve with each race by achieving a new personal best time, which was not always the outcome. However, despite times of exhaustion, I never gave up and I finished every race. My teammates and I encouraged and motivated each other during prayer, practices, and training. Every year I worked to grow stronger, and on Senior Night, it was recognition of my perseverance, work ethic, and ability to overcome obstacles throughout my high school athletic journey. I proved to myself that with hard work and commitment, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a student-athlete, I learned values like discipline, resilience, friendships, and teamwork, which shaped me both as a student and as a leader. This sport has shaped and prepared me for my path in college and for my future career. Running long distances teaches persistence and mental toughness to push through challenges in life. The lessons I learned from running have defined success for me to try new things, and even if something seems intimidating, it can help you discover hidden talents and passions. Upon graduation, I plan to attend Mississippi State University and major in biomedical engineering with the pre-med pathway. My aspiration is to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist or cardiologist. I want to use both my engineering and medical knowledge to improve patient care, especially in underserved communities. I have a passion for learning, and I enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving by finding creative solutions to problems. Understanding the importance of education, I strive to excel academically while being a well-rounded student actively involved in varsity soccer and the band that showcased my diverse talents. I know that the journey for college and medical school will require endurance, discipline, and perseverance. My dedication to serving others with compassion is deeply rooted in my faith. I organized annual homeless outreach programs and mentored young students, contributing to the community’s betterment. As a Youth Leader, I was a role model and encouraged my peers through various activities. Kalia Davis’s story resonates with mine with dedication to academic excellence, service, and leadership that exemplifies the very principles this scholarship seeks to honor. This scholarship opportunity would help me to pursue and achieve my educational goals. It would provide me with a chance to fully focus on my studies, take leadership roles, and participate in service projects that connect to my career aspiration. It would allow me to focus on my education without worrying about financial stress. It would help me to invest in education by supporting me with costs for tuition, books, research opportunities, and internships. I am committed to continuing my success story by making a meaningful impact, achieving my goals, and reaching my fullest potential.

Being recognized on Senior Night as a dedicated member of the Harding Academy Cross Country Team for four years was a defining moment in my unique story, illustrating what success truly means to me. While on the team, I faced physical and mental challenges that required me to push past my limits. When I first joined the team as a ninth grader, I was an inexperienced runner and one of the youngest. Eager to improve, I asked my teammates for advice and grew stronger with each season. I endured early morning practices, long-distance runs, and competing against some of the best athletes in the region. I also strived to improve with each race by achieving a new personal best time, which was not always the outcome. However, despite times of exhaustion, I never gave up and I finished every race. My teammates and I encouraged and motivated each other during prayer, practices, and training. Every year I worked to grow stronger, and on Senior Night, it was recognition of my perseverance, work ethic, and ability to overcome obstacles throughout my high school athletic journey. I proved to myself that with commitment, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a student-athlete, I learned values like discipline, resilience, friendships, and teamwork, which shaped me both as a student and as a leader. This sport has shaped and prepared me for my path in college and for my future career. Running long distances teaches persistence and mental toughness to push through challenges in life. The lessons I learned from running have defined success for me to try new things, and even if something seems intimidating, it can help you discover hidden talents and passions. Upon graduation, I plan to attend Mississippi State University and major in biomedical engineering with the pre-med pathway. My aspiration is to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist or cardiologist. I want to use both my engineering and medical knowledge to improve patient care, especially in underserved communities. I have a passion for learning, and I enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving by finding creative solutions to problems. With hard work and commitment, I can achieve my educational goals. Understanding the importance of education, I strive to be a well-rounded student and dedicated to excelling academically. I know that the journey for college and medical school will require endurance, discipline, and perseverance. This scholarship opportunity would help me to pursue and achieve my educational goals. It would provide me with a chance to fully focus on my studies, take leadership roles, and participate in service projects that connect to my long-term career goals. It would allow me to focus on my education without worrying about financial stress. It would help me to invest in education by supporting me with costs for tuition, books, research opportunities, and internships which are all important for my path of success. My experience with cross-country has been unforgettable. All the challenges, sacrifices, and lessons learned have been the driving force that pushed me forward to my personal success. I believe the scripture, Hebrews 12:1, best captures the essence of our success by describing it with “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” So, I am committed to continuing my success story by making a meaningful impact, achieving my goals, and reaching my fullest potential.