As a young Black woman preparing to pursue a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting, I understand the power of representation especially in fields where it's often lacking, like STEM. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics shape the world we live in, but the people shaping those industries don't always reflect the diversity of that world. Diverse representation in STEM isn't just important; it's essential to equity, innovation, and progress. Growing up, I didn't see many scientists, engineers, or mathematicians who looked like me. Most of the faces in my textbooks and on the news were not Black, not women, and certainly not young girls from communities like mine. When you don't see yourself represented, it can send the message that these careers aren't meant for you. But I refuse to accept that. I believe representation open doors, not just for individuals, but for entire communities. When underrepresented backgrounds see people who look like them succeeding in STEM, it gives them permission to dream bigger. It tells them that they, too, can be innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in their fields. More than that, diverse professionals bring new perspectives to the table. That richness of thought is exactly what STEM needs to solve complex problems in a rapidly changing world. One moment that made this real for me was when I watched a movie called "Hidden Figures". In one scene there was a challenging problem that everyone was trying to solve. Out of all the characters, the only one who solved it-was a Black woman. Watching her step up confidently gave me chills. In the moment, I saw a version of myself. She wasn't just present. She was powerful, brilliant, and the solution maker. That scene stayed with me, because it reminded me that I, too, can step into rooms where I may be the only one, and still stand tall and succeed. My long-term goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and eventually open my own accounting firm. I plan to blend my love for business with my passion for math. But even behind a calculator, I know that the skills I'm building connect to STEM in meaningful ways. From managing budgets and analyzing market trends to using technology to streamline operations, representation matters in every aspect of business and beyond. Diverse representation in STEM doesn't just give hope; it gives direction. It tells us that our dreams are valid, and our presence is powerful.

Mentorship is one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional growth. It creates a space for learning, accountability, and transformation. Throughout my journey, mentorship has not only helped shape my identity but also inspire the legacy I plan to leave behind. Mentorship is not just a relationship. It is a lifeline. As Miss Blanche Ely and a senior at Blanche Ely High School, I've had the privilege of being surrounded by incredible mentors who have guided me through critical moments in my life. One of the most influential has been Mrs. McGirt, the sponsor of Ladies of Intrigue which I'm the proud President and member of. Through her mentorship, I have learned how to balance leadership and humility, how to stand firm in the face of pressure, and how to walk in every room knowing my presence matters. She has helped me grow not just as a student or titleholder, but as a younger woman determined to make a difference. That led me to become a mentor myself. Through Mentoring Tomorrow's Leaders, I had the opportunity to work closely with a younger student who had no one in her corner. She was often overlooked and misunderstood, but I saw something in her, just like my mentors had seen in me. I became her support system and her motivator. I listened when she needed to talk, helped her set goals, and reminded her of her worth when could not see it herself. Even when she transferred to another school, I stayed in contact with her. I did not stop being her mentor just because we were no longer at the same school. That's what true mentorship is; consistent, compassionate, and committed. Watching her grow and take her education seriously showed me just how powerful one voice of encouragement can be. Mentorship is not just about what you receive, it is about what you give. Mentorship has shaped who I am, and it will continue to shape who I become. It is the foundation of every leader, every dream, and every legacy. It bridges the gap between potential and achievement by connecting individuals with someone who believes in them, challenges them, and walks with them through obstacles. A mentor can be the difference between giving up and pushing forward. Mentorship does not just build academic or career success; it builds character, confidence, and purpose. It leaves a lasting impact on others. That is why mentorship matters and is fundamental. It truly changes lives.