In a small town like Reserve, Louisiana, opportunities often feel limited, especially when you grow up in a single-parent household with financial challenges. But despite those limitations, my life has been filled with powerful influences and defining moments—none more impactful than the steady presence of my late uncle, Albert Batiste Jr., affectionately known as Aljune. He was more than an uncle—he was my mentor, motivator, emotional support, and the man who believed I could be great long before I thought it myself. Uncle Aljune was a vibrant soul, a gifted saxophonist, and a proud member of Southern University’s marching band. He filled every room with stories, music, and wisdom. He helped my father raise me, provided guidance through tough times, and taught me lessons about life, manhood, and resilience. Eight years ago, he died in a tragic trucking accident while working. His death shook me deeply, but it also shifted something in me. I knew I had to honor his life by building mine with excellence and determination. That loss became the catalyst for my focus and passion. I discovered my passion in cybersecurity—a field that combines problem-solving, protection, and purpose. As the digital world expands, so do threats to personal and community safety. I want to be part of the solution by designing and protecting secure systems, especially for communities like mine that are often overlooked or underrepresented in the tech industry. My interest in STEM has always been rooted in curiosity. I remember taking apart computers to figure out how they worked, watching YouTube videos on how data travels, and wondering who was responsible for keeping all that information safe. But what keeps me committed now is more than curiosity—it’s responsibility. I want to ensure that Black communities have advocates in digital spaces, people who understand their needs and protect their data with integrity and skill. Throughout high school, I’ve demonstrated leadership and service by mentoring younger students, helping classmates with tech assignments, and volunteering at youth STEM events. I believe representation matters, and I take every opportunity to encourage others—especially other young Black students—that they belong in STEM. My work is driven by the belief that we rise by lifting others. This fall, I will begin my studies in cybersecurity at Bowie State University, a historically Black institution that aligns with my values and vision. The program will equip me with technical expertise while surrounding me with a community of mentors and peers who share my background and drive. It will also give me the foundation I need to pursue certifications and leadership roles in the field eventually. Receiving this scholarship would be more than financial relief—it would be fuel. Fuel to keep going. Fuel to stay focused. Fuel to become the leader my younger self needed. It would give me the freedom to study without the constant weight of financial pressure, allowing me to devote time to community service and professional development. I plan to use my education to serve, teach, and protect. I want to be the kind of presence in the world that my uncle was to me—someone who inspires, empowers, and never stops showing up. His life reminds me that even in loss, the legacy lives on. And through this journey, I’m building mine.

Coding a Safer Future: My Journey into Cybersecurity The first time I realized the power of computers was when I tried to reset our home Wi-Fi router. I was just 13 years old, frustrated because my sister was streaming videos that slowed down the network. That simple act of navigating through router settings sparked something in me. I didn’t just want to fix the Wi-Fi—I tried to understand how the whole system worked. I began researching everything I could about networks, security, and how data moves invisibly across the world. That spark has now evolved into a passion for computer science and, more specifically, cybersecurity. As a senior in high school with a 3.7 GPA and a passion for protecting and serving through technology, I plan to major in Computer Science at Bowie State University, with a focus on cybersecurity. What inspires me most about computer science is how it combines logic, creativity, and the potential for significant impact. It’s a field that never stops evolving—and neither do I. Every problem I solve, and every new concept I learn adds a new layer to who I’m becoming. I want to use those skills to protect the digital lives of people who may not even realize they’re at risk. My inspiration to pursue a career in cybersecurity stems from a deeper purpose: a commitment to justice. In my community, I’ve seen how vulnerable families and small businesses are to scams, fraud, and online breaches. Most of the time, they don’t have access to high-tech protections or even basic training to spot digital threats. I want to change that. Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and encryption—it’s about giving people peace of mind. It’s about defending those who can’t afford expensive software or consultants. It’s about building trust in a digital world. The specific area I am interested in working in is ethical hacking and penetration testing. I want to become a white-hat hacker—someone who uses their skills to expose and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. In doing so, I can help secure everything from personal identities to government systems. This role excites me because it demands critical thinking, quick adaptation, and a strong moral compass—qualities I strive to develop every day. In addition to my academic goals, I’ve taken steps to strengthen my foundation. I’ve completed online coding boot camps, built small Python-based security tools for practice, and even volunteered at my church to help set up basic IT safety protocols. I also mentor younger students, helping them understand how exciting and meaningful computer science can be. Like Arthur Walasek, I believe in sharing knowledge. One day, I hope to create a nonprofit organization that teaches coding and cybersecurity to students in underserved communities. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue my journey without the financial stress that often hinders students like me from reaching their full potential. But more than that, it would be an honor to carry forward Arthur Walasek’s legacy of curiosity, creativity, and compassion. He wasn’t just a programmer—he was a teacher, a dreamer, and a builder of things that brought joy and safety to others. That’s precisely the kind of computer scientist I want to become. I don’t just want to work in technology—I want to be a force for good within it. I want to build systems that protect, educate, and empower. And I believe that with continued learning, perseverance, and support like this scholarship, I will.

Purpose Over Popularity: Building a Safer and More Just Digital Future The first time I realized how unprotected our communities are in the digital world was when my father’s email was hacked and sensitive family information was leaked. We weren’t high-profile targets—just a working-class Black family trying to stay afloat. That moment opened my eyes to how easily vulnerable people can become victims. From that point forward, I knew I wanted to use technology to protect those who are often overlooked and under-resourced. As an incoming freshman at Bowie State University, I’ve committed to studying Cybersecurity with a minor in Public Policy. I believe that these two disciplines, when used together, can help transform our systems and protect communities of color, particularly in areas such as digital safety, equitable policy, and economic opportunity. I’ve seen firsthand how poverty, lack of access, and systemic neglect compound to create barriers for African American families. I aim to break down those barriers with a career rooted in innovation, service, and advocacy. I plan to make a positive difference in the world in three distinct ways: 1. Protecting Communities Through Cybersecurity Solutions In today’s digital age, data breaches, identity theft, and online exploitation disproportionately affect underserved populations. I plan to develop cybersecurity tools that nonprofits, churches, schools, and small Black-owned businesses can use to safeguard their digital environments. My long-term goal is to establish a nonprofit organization that offers free or low-cost digital security services to vulnerable communities and educates them on how to safeguard their personal information and networks. 2. Advocating for Fair and Inclusive Technology Policy Technology and public policy must work hand-in-hand. Discriminatory surveillance practices and algorithmic bias in artificial intelligence continue to threaten civil liberties—especially for people of color. With a foundation in public policy, I will fight for ethical tech laws that promote digital equity, protect marginalized populations, and dismantle harmful surveillance structures. I envision a future where tech regulation serves all people—fairly and transparently. 3. Empowering Future Black Leaders in STEM and Justice Representation is powerful. Far too often, young Black boys don’t see themselves reflected in STEM or justice-driven careers. I want to be the mentor I never had. Through coding workshops, school visits, and peer-led training programs, I plan to invest in the next generation of Black youth—especially those growing up in areas like mine. They need to know that their voices, creativity, and leadership are essential for shaping a better world. I am already making a positive impact on social issues in my community. I volunteer weekly at a local food bank and also serve in my church’s youth mentoring program. One of my proudest moments was organizing a technology workshop for senior citizens, where we taught them how to navigate smartphones safely, set up telehealth appointments, and identify online scams. These small efforts remind me that real change begins with proximity—serving the people right in front of you. Receiving this scholarship would not just help cover tuition—it would help me continue walking on purpose. It would represent belief in a young Black man who refuses to be defined by statistics but by service. The racial wealth gap and systemic injustice are real, but so are hope and solutions—and I plan to be part of both. I don’t seek status. I aim to impact. Through Cybersecurity, public policy, and unwavering faith, I am determined to help build a world where every community feels secure, seen, and supported.

Rooted in Faith, Driven by Purpose: My Commitment to Community Through Technology The hum of my father’s old desktop computer became the rhythm of my curiosity. As a child growing up in a modest home in Reserve, Louisiana, I didn’t have the latest gadgets or the fastest internet. But I had determination—and a father who, despite raising two kids alone, never let me feel limited by our circumstances. He taught me that faith wasn’t just something we practiced in church; it was a way of life. It was the reason we kept going when times were hard. That faith has now become the foundation of my dreams—to serve, protect, and uplift communities like mine through the power of technology. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am a high school senior preparing to attend Bowie State University, one of the nation’s great Historically Black Colleges and Universities. I will be majoring in Cybersecurity, with the long-term goal of building safer digital spaces for marginalized communities. My passion for Cybersecurity began not with a class assignment but with a question: “Who’s protecting us?” I realized that as technology advances, so do threats—and those without resources are often the most vulnerable. I knew I had to be part of the solution. I want to create a future where young Black students can learn coding not just as a career skill but as a tool for empowerment, where elderly community members feel confident using the internet without fear of scams. Where small Black-owned businesses can operate securely without the risk of digital attacks, this isn’t just a career path for me—it’s a calling. Throughout high school, I’ve committed myself to both academic growth and community service. I helped lead youth technology workshops at my church, teaching basic digital skills to seniors and middle school students. I’ve volunteered at food drives, mentored younger boys in my neighborhood, and worked alongside my dad to help single parents with household repairs. These moments have shown me that real impact isn’t about having a title or a platform—it’s about showing up. That’s what I plan to do every day of my life. Attending an HBCU like Bowie State means more than a degree. It means walking in the footsteps of trailblazers who turned obstacles into opportunities. It means learning in a space that affirms my identity, honors my ancestors, and equips me to lead with excellence. I want to take everything I gain—knowledge, connections, experience—and pour it back into my community. My dream is to one day launch a nonprofit that provides free cybersecurity education and financial literacy workshops to underserved neighborhoods, starting right here in Louisiana. The legacy of Willie Mae Rawls reminds me of my own great-grandmother—a woman whose strength, prayers, and unwavering hope held our family together. Like Ms. Rawls, she believed that every generation should go further than the last. This scholarship is not just a financial gift—it’s a torch. And I am ready to carry it. I may come from a small town, but my vision is big. I believe in a world where technology bridges gaps instead of widening them—where education is not a privilege for the few but a right for all. I believe that through faith, focus, and fearless determination, I can be part of building that world. Thank you for considering me for the Willie Mae Rawls Scholarship. I’m not just preparing for college—I’m preparing to serve, to lead, and to leave a legacy of impact.

From Curiosity to Code: My Journey into Technology The first time I realized the power of technology was in my junior year of high school when my father’s job information was compromised in a data breach. I didn’t understand the full scale of what had happened, but I knew one thing: the world was becoming more connected and not always in safe ways. That moment lit a fire in me. I began asking questions, researching cybersecurity, and immersing myself in online computer science videos and courses. That curiosity quickly turned into a passion when I took on my first real project: developing a basic home network monitoring system using Python and Raspberry Pi. The project started as an idea—I wanted to build something that could track who connected to my family’s home Wi-Fi and notify us of suspicious activity. I had no formal training at the time, just a lot of late nights, online tutorials, and trial and error. I coded a simple script to ping all devices connected to the router and log their MAC addresses. Then, using a database, I cross-referenced known devices and sent alerts for unknown ones via a text messaging API. After weeks of debugging and testing, I successfully implemented the alert system. The joy I felt when I received the first real-time alert was indescribable. It wasn’t perfect, but I had built something that worked and, more importantly—something that mattered. That project made me realize how empowering technology can be. It’s not just about computers or code—it’s about solving real-world problems, protecting people, and creating tools that make life better. Technology empowers ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things. It’s also where my heart is. Whether it’s protecting data, building applications that serve communities, or helping small businesses streamline operations, I’m drawn to the challenge and potential of tech. Currently, I’m pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a focus on cybersecurity. Every class, every lab, and every project fuels my vision for the future. I hope to one day work with government or nonprofit organizations to build secure systems that protect sensitive information, especially for vulnerable communities. I’ve seen firsthand how devastating data breaches and system failures can be for families like mine, and I want to be part of the solution. Working in technology inspires me because it’s a field where growth never stops. There’s always a new challenge, a new vulnerability to patch, a new tool to learn. It forces you to be both analytical and creative—two qualities I’ve come to value in myself. Most importantly, technology provides a platform for impact. Whether you’re designing an app for emergency responders or a program that makes learning more accessible for students, tech enables service. Receiving the Chadwick D. McNab Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of college, but it would also be an honor to continue the legacy of someone who believed in the power of growth, progress, and excellence in engineering. I want to use my education and future career to carry that same torch—building with purpose, serving with passion, and always pushing toward a better tomorrow.

Turning Pain Into Purpose: What I Learned From Losing My Uncle The hardest moment of my life came without warning. I was sixteen years old when my uncle, whom I lovingly called “Uncle June,” was tragically killed in a trucking accident. He wasn’t just a relative; he was one of the most consistent, loving, and supportive figures in my life. I lived with him and my grandmother, and we shared everyday moments that now feel like precious memories—cutting grass together, going to the park, talking after dinner. He wasn’t rich, famous, or flashy, but he was present. He gave me his time, his wisdom, and most importantly, his belief in me. When he passed, I felt like the ground beneath me had collapsed. Grief settled in like a heavy fog. I found myself falling behind in school, withdrawing from my usual activities, and feeling a kind of loneliness I had never experienced before. I questioned everything, including whether I had the strength to continue my goals, or whether college—something he always pushed me to pursue—was even possible anymore. That season of life tested me emotionally, mentally, and academically. But through the pain, I found clarity. I realized that giving up on myself would mean giving up on his legacy. He worked hard every day not just to provide but to inspire, and I knew the best way to honor him was to keep going. So, I got back up. Slowly but surely, I started focusing again—on school, on my goals, and on the future we had dreamed of together. I began studying computer science with a passion I hadn’t known before. I began learning about cybersecurity, fascinated by how it protects individuals and their sensitive information. As I dug deeper, I realized I could turn my pain into purpose—not just for myself, but for others. My goal now is to major in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and minor in Finance at Bowie State University. I want to build a career that secures data for families, small businesses, and underserved communities—people like my own, who often don’t have access to high-level protection. The loss of my uncle profoundly shaped my character in powerful ways. I’ve learned how to be resilient even when life feels unfair. I’ve learned how to be there for my family during difficult times. And I’ve learned that pain doesn’t have to break you—it can become the reason you rise. Today, I am not only on track to graduate high school with a strong GPA, but I am also committed to community service. I’ve volunteered through my church, tutored younger students, and led a tech workshop for kids in my neighborhood to help them understand coding and online safety. These aren’t just activities for me—they are the beginning of a legacy I plan to build in honor of the people who shaped me. As a first-generation college student, I know that the road ahead won’t be easy. But I carry with me the strength of my uncle’s example, and the determination to make sure his belief in me was never in vain. The Xavier M. Monroe Memorial Scholarship would not only help me financially—it would allow me to carry another legacy forward by supporting students like myself who’ve turned obstacles into opportunities. Thank you for considering my story. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Service Through Cybersecurity: My Path to Positive Impact I learned the value of service long before I chose my career path. Raised in a single-parent home in Reserve, Louisiana, I watched my father—a minister and mentor—work tirelessly to support my sister and me. When he wasn’t preaching or volunteering, he worked other jobs to keep the lights on. He taught me that real leadership begins with service, and real success means helping others succeed. I carry that lesson with me in everything I do. Whether working part-time in hospitality or volunteering through my church’s outreach ministry, I’ve found purpose in serving others. From helping distribute meals during the holidays to assisting elderly members of our congregation with technology, I’ve seen firsthand how small acts of service can change lives. These experiences have shaped who I am and who I aspire to be. As a high school senior with a 3.7 GPA, I plan to attend Bowie State University, where I will major in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and minor in Finance. My goal is to use education as a launchpad to protect people and empower communities through technology. We live in a digital world, but many people—especially in low-income neighborhoods like mine—are left vulnerable online. Small businesses, families, and nonprofits often lack the knowledge or resources to protect their information. My career mission is to fill that gap. I want to become a cybersecurity expert who helps defend these groups from fraud, identity theft, and data breaches. I will establish a tech firm that offers affordable cybersecurity services and community training programs tailored to underserved populations. I also plan to continue my work in youth mentorship. After leading a community tech workshop where I taught local students about online safety and basic coding, I realized the power of knowledge. Some of those students had never considered a career in technology before that experience. I aim to expand that impact by establishing mentorship programs, sponsoring tech boot camps, and collaborating with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to increase diversity in the fields of cybersecurity and finance. Furthering my education is the key that unlocks all of this. College will give me the knowledge, certification, and network I need to lead and serve effectively. I know that the road ahead won’t be easy. My family’s financial limitations mean I will need every ounce of determination, discipline, and outside support to reach the finish line. But I am ready. I applied for this scholarship because I believe in the power of higher education, not just to change my life, but to change the lives I plan to reach. I’m a first-generation college student who understands what it means to work hard, serve others, and turn struggle into strength. With your support, I will carry that mindset into every classroom, internship, and opportunity. The investment you make in me will multiply through the students I mentor, the businesses I protect, and the communities I help thrive. Thank you for considering my application and for helping students like me turn ambition into action. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Protecting the Future, One Line of Code at a Time When I was 14 years old, I assisted my church in installing new software for a community food distribution program. I didn’t know much at the time—I was following instructions from YouTube—but I remember how empowered I felt when the system worked. That moment lit a spark in me. I began to ask questions, explore coding, and dig into how technology works. I quickly realized that behind every website, every network, and every secure login was a world of opportunity—and a world of risk. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a cybersecurity expert. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I’m a senior at East St. John High School in Reserve, Louisiana. I plan to major in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity at Bowie State University and minor in Finance. My goal is to use technology not just to build systems but to protect them—and, more importantly, to protect the people who depend on them. In today’s world, cybersecurity is more than a tech issue—it’s a human one. As more communities, businesses, and individuals rely on digital platforms for banking, healthcare, education, and communication, the need for protection grows. Unfortunately, many of the people most at risk—low-income families, small businesses, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations—don’t have the resources to defend themselves. I plan to change that. I aim to establish a cybersecurity consulting firm that offers affordable or complimentary security services to underrepresented communities. This will include running vulnerability scans, setting up firewall protections, teaching families how to recognize phishing scams, and assisting small businesses in securing their customer data. I also plan to launch a digital literacy initiative that teaches students in middle and high school how to navigate the internet safely, understand cyber ethics, and consider careers in tech. My dream is to create a “tech shield” for my community—starting in Louisiana and eventually expanding nationwide. I believe that protecting digital spaces is just as crucial as protecting physical ones, especially at a time when identity theft, online scams, and cyberbullying are so prevalent. Through my work, I want to empower people to feel safe, informed, and in control of their online lives. But my impact won’t stop at local service. I plan to partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority-serving institutions to offer internship opportunities, mentorship programs, and training initiatives that increase Black and Brown representation in the tech field. I want to build pathways for students who, like me, may have once thought that computer science was out of reach. I believe in lifting as I climb, and I will measure my success not just by how much I protect, but by how many I empower. Receiving the Deborah Thomas Memorial Scholarship would bring me one step closer to these goals. Like Deborah, I believe in education as a vehicle for change. I am driven, focused, and prepared to face the academic challenges ahead, but I need help bridging the financial gap. This scholarship would alleviate some of the burden and enable me to focus entirely on expanding my knowledge, refining my skills, and preparing to make a meaningful impact. Thank you for considering my application. I am ready to code, defend, lead, and serve—and I will not stop until the digital world is a safer place for everyone. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Coding for the Climate: Building Sustainable Futures Through Technology and Finance I believe that real change starts with one decision—one step toward purpose. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am an incoming Computer Science major with a concentration in Cybersecurity and a minor in Finance at Bowie State University, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) where I plan to turn my education into action. Over the next five years, I will create a positive environmental impact by combining digital innovation with financial insight to help underserved communities adopt sustainable practices and protect their futures. Technology plays a significant role in shaping our interactions with the environment, from smart cities to energy-efficient systems. I plan to leverage my training in computer science to develop tools that promote energy conservation, reduce digital waste, and facilitate eco-friendly financial planning. I will start locally by creating a community-facing mobile app that enables families and small businesses to track their energy usage, carbon footprint, and cost-saving opportunities in real time. I will design the app with underserved communities in mind—using clear visuals, low-data functionality, and culturally relevant features to ensure accessibility. While technology drives awareness, finance drives behavior. Many people want to live more sustainably, but believe they cannot afford it. That’s where my background in finance comes in. I will host financial wellness workshops that teach community members how to budget for sustainability, whether that means investing in home insulation, switching to reusable materials, or participating in community solar programs. I will also partner with local banks and nonprofits to help families access green grants and microloans for eco-friendly upgrades. Over the next five years, I also plan to launch a campus initiative at Bowie State called “Green Bytes.” This program will engage students in solving environmental challenges through coding competitions, hackathons, and internship pipelines with eco-conscious companies. We’ll address issues like e-waste management, food waste in campus dining, and digital sustainability practices for small businesses. By bringing together students from tech, finance, marketing, and healthcare backgrounds, we will build a coalition of young Black innovators focused on sustainability. My work doesn’t stop at the local level. I aim to make a global impact by connecting my efforts with sustainability-focused hackathons and contributing to open-source environmental technology projects that serve developing nations. Whether it’s building platforms that help farmers predict droughts using climate data or supporting secure digital infrastructure for green energy startups, I want my code to make a difference far beyond my zip code. I also plan to mentor younger students of color in high school and early college through tech workshops that demonstrate how they can utilize their skills to care for the planet. I want them to see that environmental stewardship isn’t just for scientists or policymakers—it’s for innovators, designers, business owners, and community leaders like them. I applied for this scholarship not just because I need financial help, although I do, but because I believe in FLIK Hospitality Group’s vision to remove barriers for Black and Brown leaders. Your support would help me access certifications, tech tools, and research materials that will sharpen my ability to lead with both heart and strategy. It would also allow me to focus on building real solutions, not just dreaming them up. My mission is clear: I will create scalable, community-driven solutions that merge sustainability, financial literacy, and technology. I will help people not only survive but also thrive—both economically and ecologically. With your help, I will become the kind of leader who transforms innovation into impact. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Pushing Beyond the Finish Line: Why I’m Continuing My Education Growing up in Reserve, Louisiana, I often heard my father say, “Son, education is your bridge out of limitation.” As a single parent raising two children, he modeled discipline, sacrifice, and faith. He worked long hours in ministry, mentoring others while still finding time to push me toward my purpose. That purpose began to come into focus in high school when I discovered a deep interest in how technology works—and how vulnerable our communities are without the knowledge to protect it. Now, as I prepare to graduate from Bowie State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and a minor in Finance, I realize that my academic journey cannot stop here. Suppose I fulfill my calling to serve and protect underrepresented communities in the digital age. In that case, I must continue my education and sharpen both my technical and leadership capabilities. I plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Risk Management, with a long-term goal of becoming a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for a major organization or establishing my firm that provides digital protection and training to small Black-owned businesses, churches, and nonprofits. The ever-evolving nature of cyber threats demands specialized, up-to-date training. I need this next level of education not just to stay relevant in the field but to become a thought leader in it. Graduate education represents more than just academic advancement for me—it’s a gateway to innovation, empowerment, and equity. I’ve already seen the positive impact of using my knowledge to serve others. In college, I led youth tech workshops for students in my hometown, teaching them about coding, online safety, and career paths in the tech industry. Many of them had never heard of Cybersecurity before. Watching their confidence grow helped confirm that I am called not just to work in this field, but to educate and inspire the next generation through it. However, I am also very aware of the financial barriers to continuing education. Federal financial aid primarily supports undergraduate study, and the transition to graduate school is daunting, especially for first-generation students like me. I want to walk into graduate school without the fear of accumulating unmanageable debt. I want to focus on academic excellence, professional development, and service, not survival. That’s why this scholarship means so much to me. It would not only help fund my future, but it would reaffirm that my vision is valid and worth investing in. The legacy of Charles E. Nettles, a dedicated historian and educator, deeply inspires me. He believed in shaping minds, telling stories, and creating space for truth and transformation through education. I, too, believe in the power of learning, not just to inform but to liberate. My mission is to use advanced education to amplify that power in the realm of technology and security, areas that are becoming increasingly critical to the success and safety of our communities. In short, I am not continuing my education simply for personal gain. I am continuing because my growth has the potential to open doors, create systems, and protect futures. My journey is far from over. With this scholarship, I’ll be one step closer to fulfilling my purpose—and carrying the legacy of leaders like Charles Nettles into the digital future. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Building a Secure Future While Serving My Community Growing up in Reserve, Louisiana, I often found myself asking, “What can I do to make things better for people like me?” As a young African American male being raised in a single-parent home by my father, a minister, mentor, and my biggest inspiration, I quickly learned that education was more than just a tool for personal advancement. It was a bridge to transformation, not only for me but for my community. I’m proud to be graduating with a GPA above 3.0 and am committed to attending Bowie State University, one of the nation’s most distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). My goal is to major in cybersecurity and minor in finance, with the long-term dream of creating a cybersecurity consulting firm that empowers small businesses, schools, and nonprofits—especially in underserved communities—to protect their digital resources. What sparked my interest in technology was a simple question from a child I was tutoring at our church: “How do computers protect themselves?” I didn’t know the answer right away, but the curiosity that the question stirred led me down a path of learning HTML, researching firewalls, and discovering the world of ethical hacking. The more I learned, the more I realized how vulnerable our communities are to cyber threats and how few of us are equipped to defend ourselves digitally. That’s when I decided to commit my career to closing that gap. My educational goal is to excel academically at Bowie State while gaining hands-on experience through internships and community tech initiatives. I plan to earn industry certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ and Cisco CCNA, which will enhance my knowledge and open doors to professional opportunities. But more than that, I want to use my education to open doors for others. My professional goal is to launch a cybersecurity firm that offers free or low-cost services to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), churches, and small businesses and to train the next generation of African American youth in technology. I don’t just want to build firewalls—I want to build futures. Service is not something I discovered later in life. It’s something I was raised in. My father instilled in me the value of showing up, giving back, and speaking life into others. Whether it was helping with food distributions, tutoring at our church, or volunteering with local STEM youth programs, I learned early that real success includes lifting others as you climb. One of my proudest moments was organizing a summer tech workshop at our local community center. I taught kids basic coding and internet safety and introduced them to careers in the tech industry. Seeing their faces light up when they created their first website or identified a phishing scam reminded me that empowerment is contagious. That experience didn’t just teach them—it taught me. It showed me that public service isn’t just about charity—it’s about legacy. I am deeply committed to civic service because I understand that communities don’t heal from the outside in—they heal from the inside out. I aspire to be the kind of professional who not only builds a profitable business but also reinvests in schools, mentors young people, and influences policy on cybersecurity and digital access. One of my future goals is to establish a nonprofit organization that will collaborate with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to offer on-campus cybersecurity training, digital literacy seminars, and scholarships for students pursuing technology-related fields. I believe I am the best candidate for the Eleven Shades of Fate Scholarship, not because I have all the answers but because I am driven to ask the right questions—and take action. I represent the kind of student your scholarship was created for: ambitious, underrepresented, and committed to making an impact. I understand that attending college, especially an HBCU, is not just about what I will receive—it’s about what I will give. I am walking into this next chapter of my life with a clear sense of purpose and a strong foundation of faith, service, and determination. I want my life to reflect the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha: manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all humanity. Thank you for considering me for this honor. I hope to not only receive this scholarship but to make you proud of the investment you make in me—for years to come. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

A Path Paved by Purpose: My Journey into Computer Science My journey into computer science started not in a classroom but in a church basement. I volunteered at a community program organized by our church in Reserve, Louisiana, where I assisted elementary students with their schoolwork. One day, a little boy asked if I could help him understand how computers "talk" to each other. I didn't have a clear answer at the time, but that question lit a spark in me. I went home that evening and started researching how networks, data, and security work. The more I learned, the more I realized I wanted to dedicate my life to understanding and mastering the systems that underpin our digital world. What began as a curiosity has now become my calling. I'm preparing to major in cybersecurity and computer science at Bowie State University, with a long-term goal of becoming a security analyst and eventually launching my cybersecurity consulting firm. My dream is to help protect both small businesses and underserved communities from cyber threats. I want to build a platform that teaches students like the one in that basement not just how computers work, but how they can use technology to create secure, purpose-filled lives. What drives me is more than interest; it's a sense of responsibility. I was raised in a single-parent household by my father, a minister and mentor who made daily sacrifices to provide for my sister and me. I saw firsthand what resilience looks like. But I also saw what limited access to technology and financial resources can mean for kids who look like me. That's why I've devoted time outside of school to volunteering—whether through church food drives, tutoring, or leading a youth tech workshop where I taught kids basic coding and online safety. These experiences weren't just service—they were seeds sown into the lives of future technologists. I believe I'm the best candidate for the Chris Jackson Scholarship, not just because of what I've done but because of what I intend to do. I don't want to earn a degree—I want to become a bridge. A bridge between opportunity and equity. Between questions and answers. Between curiosity and career. Chris Jackson's story resonates deeply with me, especially his early struggle to afford an education that ultimately led to a life of impact. Like him, I've faced challenges, but I've met them with faith, grit, and an unshakable desire to help others rise with me. I know that this scholarship will not only ease the financial burden of college—it will empower me to continue the kind of work Chris lived for: building people, advancing knowledge, and shaping futures. Thank you for considering my application. I pray to honor his legacy not just in words but in action. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

The Achievement That Changed Me: Launching a Community Tech Workshop When I first taught a group of middle school students how to build a basic website at our local community center, I didn’t expect the moment to change the direction of my life. But it did. That day, I realized that what I knew—basic coding, cybersecurity awareness, and creative tech tools—had the power to open doors for others. Launching that small workshop for underserved youth in Reserve, Louisiana, became the personal achievement I’m most proud of, not only because it helped others but because it helped me discover my purpose. I grew up in a single-parent household, raised by my father, who juggled ministry, mentoring, and multiple jobs to keep us stable. His commitment to community and character shaped everything in me. Inspired by his example, I began volunteering through our church to help with food drives, tutoring, and mentoring younger kids. However, the idea for the tech workshop came to me when I realized how few kids in our neighborhood were being introduced to the digital skills that are shaping today’s careers. Many of them didn’t even have access to laptops outside of school. With the help of a few church leaders and donated devices, I created a five-week summer program that covered the basics of HTML, online safety, and problem-solving with tech. I used colorful slides, interactive games, and relatable stories to keep their attention—and it worked. Several of the students later told me they wanted to pursue careers in technology. That workshop showed me the impact of education and equity in action. The experience gave me more than a sense of accomplishment—it gave me direction. I now plan to major in cybersecurity and minor in finance at Bowie State University, a historically Black college that aligns with both my heritage and my mission. I want to build a career that protects communities and businesses from digital threats while empowering others to pursue technology without fear or limitation. One of the students from my first workshop recently messaged me, saying, “You made me think I could do this tech stuff.” That message reminded me why I’m on this path. I believe mentorship is one of the most potent forms of legacy, and if I can help even one person see themselves differently—stronger, smarter, more capable—then I’ve succeeded. Winning the Gregory Flowers Memorial Scholarship would be more than a financial gift. It would be a continuation of everything Mr. Flowers stood for: service, mentoring, and believing in the untapped potential of young people of color. I carry that same mission in my heart. And like him, I don’t want to achieve for myself—I want to create spaces where others can grow, thrive, and lead