1st Place: Maleah Fils-Aime, 5th grade, St. James Catholic School, Wilhelmina Jakes

Wilhelmina Jakes – Florida’s Rosa Parks

Wilhelmina Jakes was a brave woman who played an important role in the Florida’s Civil Rights Movement. She was a college student who stood up against racism, even when it was dangerous to do so. Her courage helped bring change to Florida and made life better for many people.

In 1956, Wilhelmina Jakes and her friend Carrie Patterson were students at Florida A&M University. One day, they took a bus in Tallahassee and sat in the “whites-only” section. At that time, segregation laws said Black people had to sit in the back of the bus, but Wilhelmina and Carrie refused to move. Their simple act of bravery caused them to be arrested, but it also sparked something much bigger, a bus boycott led by African Americans in Tallahassee.

The Tallahassee Bus Boycott was similar to the famous Montgomery Bus Boycott led by Rosa Parks. Because Wilhelmina and Carrie took a stand, many African Americans stopped riding the buses in protest. This made a huge impact because it showed that people could fight for their rights without violence. Non-violent protest was very important to show the right way to do things. It also helped bring attention to the unfair laws that treated Black people as less important than others.

Wilhelmina Jakes’ actions had a big impact on the Civil Rights Movement in Florida. The boycott lasted for months, and eventually, it helped push for changes that made public transportation fair for everyone. She proved that young people, even college students, could make a difference in the world. Because of her bravery, African Americans in Florida gained more confidence to stand up for their rights in schools, restaurants, and other public places.

Even though Wilhelmina Jakes lived a long time ago, her courage still affects my life today. Because of her and other civil rights leaders, I can go to any school I want, sit wherever I like on a bus, and enjoy the same rights as everyone else. I don’t have to live in fear of being treated unfairly just because of my skin color, which is a very beautiful dark complexion by the way. Wilhelmina’s bravery inspires me to stand up for what is right, even when it is hard.

As a fifth-grade girl, I have to admit, sometimes it takes courage that I always don’t have, but I look up to Wilhelmina Jakes because she showed that young people can create change. If she had not been brave enough to take a stand, Florida might not be the place it is today. Because of her, I know that one voice, no matter how small, can make a big difference. Wilhelmina Jakes is truly a Champion of Courage. She helped pave the way for a better future, not just for African Americans in Florida but for all people who believe in fairness and equality. I am grateful for her strength, and I hope to follow in her footsteps by always standing up for what is right. Hopefully one day a 5th grade girl will be writing about the accomplishments and courage I showed in my life.

2nd Place: Andrew Elus, 5th grade, Vineland K-8 Center, Mary McLeod Bethune

Mary McLeod Bethune: A Trailblazer in Education and Equality

Have you ever wondered if one person can change the course of history? Mary McLeod Bethune is an example of how consistent acts of service, dedication, and love can bring about change to our community. Born into the harsh reality of the post-Civil War, she defied all odds to become one of the most influential civil rights leaders in history. A committed educator, she built a distinguished college for African Americans to highlight the importance of education to the advancement of people of color.  As one of the most impactful black educators and civil rights movement leaders of the 20th Century, Mrs. McLeod Bethune changed not only Florida, but the world. She left a legacy that still inspires us today. Nicknamed “The First Lady of Struggle,” she worked diligently to raise awareness on social causes and devoted her life to ensure education and freedom became a reality for all. Her famous quote “without faith nothing is possible, with it nothing is impossible” reminds us that though equality seems impossible, through faith and hard work we can achieve anything.

Born into poverty, Mary McLeod Bethune was the fifteenth of 17 children in her family.  Having the rare opportunity to attend school, she faced many challenges.  Mary walked five miles every day to a tiny one-room schoolhouse, determined to learn even though the odds were stacked against her. Imagine walking in the hot sun, day after day, just to have a chance to read a book and write your name. Growing up in a rural area in South Carolina, the only school available was a far distance from her home. Despite the obstacle of the long walk, she was devoted to get an education and persevered through. Earning a scholarship to Scotia Seminary (now Barber-Scotia College), Mrs. Bethune stood out for her hard work and commitment to her education. While maintaining her studies, she had to fundraise for her college tuition and collected secondhand supplies to support her education. Because of her strong will, she believed the only way to end inequality was to receive an education. She would use the knowledge and skills she gained from the classroom to help make a difference in society.

Mary McLeod Bethune’s commitment to education and equality led her to establish the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute (now Bethune Cookman University), a shining beacon of opportunity for African American women around the country. A true warrior for advancement, she helped her community by educating girls about leadership. She started the school with just five students and grew it into a respected institution for African Americans. Mrs. Bethune gave her students the tools to succeed and become community leaders. She helped lay the foundation to the civil rights movement and was one of the earliest black female activists to do it. Mrs. McLeod Bethune made a significant impact on the world by making education an accessible option to help achieve racial and gender equality in the nation.

In addition to her work in education, Mary McLeod Bethune fought to end segregation, improve healthcare, and helped women gain the right to vote. In Florida, she assisted with purchasing land to create Paradise Beach, which allowed African Americans the opportunity to enjoy the beach and Whites to visit despite segregation. She was also instrumental in founding the first Black hospital in Daytona Beach after a student in need of care was refused assistance by a local hospital.  Through her influence in organizations like the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), her followers protested for civil rights. As an advocate for integration in the armed forces, she helped get women of color into the military, opening many doors to opportunities previously closed. McLeod Bethune worked tirelessly in the South to register black voters and actively fought against Jim Crow laws. Mrs. Bethune also contributed numerous articles to black newspapers and later became Vice President of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). 

During the Great Depression, McLeod Bethune became the first black woman to lead a federal agency. In this role, she helped aid unemployed African Americans during the New Deal. In addition, Mrs. Bethune’s close relationship with President Roosevelt allowed her to serve as a voice for people of color within his administration. Her influence in the Oval Office helped to forge policies that fulfilled the needs of African American communities. As a result of her courage and determination, she brought race related issues to the forefront of American politics and helped voice the change needed in human rights policy. These contributions solidified her role as an important figure in the civil rights movement.

Mary McLeod Bethune was champion for education and the civil rights movement. Her life’s work has had long-lasting, beneficial effects on society, changing the lives of many for the good during her time. Her efforts gave women and people of color many of the liberties we enjoy today – access to education, health care, and voting. From her example, educators and civil rights activists can be inspired to make a difference today. Bethune’s deep commitment to equality and inclusion helped shape the education system by advancing diversity, community engagement, and equal access.  Her story proves that dedication and faith can change the world no matter how hard life seems. Reflecting on the legacy of this determined leader reminds me that education is a powerful tool. Mrs. Bethune’s life inspires me to work hard and dream big. I am thankful for the legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune, as it has provided me with educational opportunities and programs that challenge me to learn, work hard, and make a difference in my community. I am grateful for the sacrifices of civil rights leaders like her, because of them, I can live out my wildest dreams. I strive to be a living example, proving that with faith, anything is possible.

3rd Place: Miral Gonzalez, 5th grade, True North Classical Academy, Gwendolyn Sawyer Cherry

Cherry’s Legacy!

Did you know that Gwendolyn Sawyer Cherry was the first African American woman to practice law in Dade County? When I first found her while researching distinguished figures from Florida’s civil rights movement, whose courage have led to significant progress in the state, I knew I had found an extraordinary person. Gwen Cherry’s actions have impacted not only the rights of all African Americans in Florida but also my ow life by emphasizing the values of education and leadership.

To understand this impact, I did research about Gwen Cherry’s life and career. Gwendolyn Sawyer Cherry, born in 1923, in Miami, Florida. Cherry’s journey began in a time when opportunities for African American women were severely limited. Despite these challenges, she pursued her education with determination, earning a degree from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), and later a law degree from the same institution. Her academic achievements laid the foundation for her career in law and politics. As the first African American woman to practice law in Dade County, Cherry broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the legal profession. Her legal career was marked by her relentless advocacy for civil rights and social justice. She was known for her ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system while remaining in her commitment to fairness and equality. Cherry’s impact extended beyond the courtroom. In 1970, she made history again by becoming the first African American woman elected to the Florida House of Representatives. During her tenure, she championed numerous causes, including education reform, women’s rights, and the rights of minorities. Her legislative efforts were instrumental in shaping policies that promoted equality and justice for all Floridians. She made history as the first African American woman elected to the Florida Legislature, representing the 106th district. Her groundbreaking achievements didn’t stop there; she also chaired the Minority Affairs Committee for the Democratic National Convention and the National Women’s Caucus in 1972.

At a personal level, learning about Gwen Cherry’s life and work has had a tremendous positive impact on me, highlighting the importance of the values of education and leadership, instilled in me by my family and Breakthrough Miami, and also by the Girl Scouts. Coming from a family of educators, with my mother being a teacher, I have always been taught about the value of education as a means to effect change in the world. My family, and now Breakthrough Miami, have instilled in me high standards and the belief that attaining an education is the key to making the world a better, more just, and fair place. From Gwen Cherry’s work as a teacher for Miami-Dade County Public Schools for more than 20 years, and later as a university professor, I have learned about the transformative power of education. Her dedication to teaching and her commitment to her students serve as a powerful reminder of how important it is for me to learn to achieve my own educational goals. I am also a Girl Scout in Troop 2013. The mission of the Girl Scouts is to help girls build confidence, courage, and character so they can make the world a better place. As a Girl Scout, I have learned the importance of empowering girls to become future leaders in order to be able to become agents of change in the world. Cherry’s work as an attorney has taught me the importance of cultivating leadership and standing up for one’s beliefs and values, and for what is right. She was a “champion for the rights of all people and a voice of reason and concern,” as U.S. Senator Bob Graham once described her. Her legal career was marked by her unwavering commitment to justice and her ability to advocate for those who were marginalized and oppressed. Cherry’s legacy as an attorney serves as an inspiration to students like me, who seek to learn about leadership to promote justice and equality.

Gwen Cherry’s life is a testament to resilience, hard work, dedication, determination, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her achievements in education, law, and politics, have left an indelible mark on the state of Florida and on girls like me, that look up to her as a role model. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower me, to strive for justice and equality in my own life and in my community. Cherry’s story is a powerful example and a source of inspiration for me, as I dream of making a positive impact in the world! As she said it: “You know, you can’t just stand aside and criticize. I think this is where the answer is going to be.” That is Cherry’s legacy!

1st Place: Alia Rahman, 7th grade, Ransom Everglades School, Furqan Tinsley (Mr.T)

Teacher T Teaches Magic in Miami

In South Florida, there are countless stories of unique individuals whose stories have yetto be told. Some of them shape the lives of those around them in significant ways but aren’t alwaysrecognized. One such person that has deeply impacted my life, and many more, is my programmingteacher, Mr. T or as I like to call him, ‘Teacher T’. His impact on my life introduced me to anentirely new world of computer science and its limitless possibilities.

Mr. T is a Math and Computer Science teacher. He studied mechanical engineering inTexas and California before moving to Miami. One thing we share is that we are both new to theRansom Everglades community, which helped us form a bond from the start as it was somethingwe could both relate to. At home, Mr. T has two young children who keep him busy, especiallywith their love for snakes and dragons!

In my previous school, I had no access to technology courses or much information on thesubject, so when I first walked into my Programming and Computer Science classroom, I had littleinterest and honestly saw coding as intimidating. However, Mr. T had a unique way of breakingthe topics down, making coding seem much less scary.

Our projects ranged from basic coding to website and game building. All of a sudden,magically, I was creating amazing projects using advanced codes and enjoying every moment.Moreover, my peers and I began to use coding to build our own websites and video games. Irealized that coding was not just about continuously writing lines of code, rather it involvedcreative and critical thinking with fascinating outcomes. Furthermore, during the course, Mr. Thelped us explore the limitless world of Virtual and Augmented Realities. Through project-basedlearning and engaging lesson plans, I was beginning to view this course as one to look forward toeach week. These projects along with his enthusiasm towards programming was contagious, andthis course inspired me to want to learn more about innovation and technology.

Perhaps most importantly, what Mr. T taught us, apart from introducing us to the world ofmodern technology, is the timeless value of respecting ourselves and each other. As a young father,he often told us stories of his children at home. This made us realize how he was also a warm,guiding force in our lives as our teacher. Respecting our work and each other was the foundationof his course. Thus, he managed to bring traditional values into a modern classroom.

Mr. T’s influence on me and my classmates, is a real-life story of the invaluablecontributions, often unspoken, that African Americans have made to the community around them,especially educators. Just as many groundbreaking African American people have shaped societyfor the better, Mr. T was shaping the next generation of problem solvers and innovators. He helpedme, and many other students realize our potential in an unfamiliar field, and while we may not allwant to continue to pursue a career in programming, the life skills we gained from his course areinvaluable and will help us throughout our lives.

2nd Place: Bagaya Samuel, 8th grade, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, American Activist: Hank James Thomas

“A Legacy of Courage and Justice”

Henry “Hank” James Thomas, one of the original 13 Freedom Riders of 1961, is a keyfigure whose courage in the face of racial injustice shaped the landscape of South Florida’s fightfor civil rights. His dedication to the cause of equality and his willingness to endure the harshrealities of segregation have had a lasting impact on the South Florida community, including myown understanding of justice, perseverance, and the power of collective action.

Born and raised in Florida, Hank James Thomas made a life-changing decision to join theFreedom Riders, a group of activists who rode interstate buses through the segregated South tochallenge the policies of racial segregation. The Freedom Rides were crucial in challenging the“Jim Crow” laws that enforced racial segregation on buses, trains, and other public places in theSouth. Despite facing physical violence and jail time, Thomas’s participation in the rides was acritical moment in the Civil Rights Movement. His actions symbolized defiance againstoppression and the unwavering pursuit of justice for all.

The Freedom Riders’ bravery in the face of violent resistance changed the course ofhistory. The journey was not easy; Hank Thomas, along with other riders, was subjected to brutalattacks from mobs, and their buses were bombed. Despite this, Thomas’s resolve never wavered,and his unwavering commitment to ending segregation was a testament to his strength and beliefin equality.

Hank James Thomas’s legacy reaches far beyond his participation in the Freedom Rides.His courageous stance on racial equality and justice contributed to the desegregation of publicspaces and inspired countless others to stand up against injustice in South Florida and beyond.

His work paved the way for future generations to continue the fight for civil rights, making himan unsung hero in South Florida’s history.

His impact on my life cannot be overstated. Growing up in South Florida, I have beenfortunate enough to witness the diversity and inclusiveness that many take for granted. However,this wasn’t always the case, and Hank Thomas’s actions remind me that these freedoms werehard-won through the sacrifices of people who dared to challenge the status quo. His exampleteaches me the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter the personal cost. As astudent and future leader, I am inspired to continue advocating for justice and equality in mycommunity.

In a time when the stories of many African Americans remain untold, Hank JamesThomas’s life serves as a powerful reminder of the power of activism and collective action. Hisstory is a beacon of hope for those who believe in change, and his contributions to SouthFlorida’s civil rights movement continue to inspire today’s generation.

Through his actions, Hank Thomas demonstrated that a single individual’s commitmentto justice can alter the course of history. By honoring the contributions of figures like him, weensure their legacies endure, serving as a reminder of both the progress we’ve made and theongoing work needed to achieve equality for all. Hank’s courage and dedication continue toinspire us to stand up for what is right, no matter the personal cost.

His words encapsulate the essence of the Freedom Rides and the larger civil rightsmovement. They were never about personal gain or fame—they were about doing what wasright, regardless of the personal consequences. Hank’s courage during the Freedom Rides and hisunwavering dedication to justice show us that even in the face of unimaginable odds, standing upfor what’s right is always worth it. He embodied the spirit of resistance that sparked progress andleft an enduring mark on history.

As we reflect on Hank James Thomas’s contributions, we must remember that the fightfor justice is ongoing. It’s up to each generation to take on the mantle of activism and fight forequality, just as Hank did. His life teaches us that true change requires both individual andcollective action, and every step forward counts. We owe it to Hank and others like him tocontinue their work and to ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain.

Today, I think about Hank’s courage whenever I face obstacles or witness inequality. Itreminds me that standing up for justice is not only a moral obligation but also an opportunity tomake a lasting impact. We can all be part of the solution, just as Hank was. The challenges of thepast still echo in our society today, and it’s important to keep the momentum going. Hank’slegacy lives on in the progress we continue to make, and it serves as a constant reminder that weall have the power to make change.

3rd Place: Estafany Prieto, 6th grade, Ada Merritt K-8 Center, Mary McLeod Bethune

Mary McLeod Bethune: A Champion of Education and Equality

Have you ever wondered how one woman can change the course of history? Mary McLeod Bethune was a remarkable leader whose tenacity and vision transformed the landscape of education and civil rights for African Americans in the early 20th century. Born on July 10, 1875, in South Carolina as the daughter of formerly enslaved parents, she faced immense challenges in a society that often denied Black individuals the right to learn. Despite these obstacles, she earned a scholarship to the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, where her passion for education flourished. Upon graduating, she moved to Florida with a determination to uplift her community. Bethune’s journey is an inspiring testament to how one determined individual can make a real difference in their community.

In 1904, Bethune founded the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, with just $1.50 and a fierce dedication to education. This school not only provided academic learning but also practical skills like sewing and cooking, preparing her students for future success. Over time, the school gained recognition and eventually became Bethune-Cookman College, which continues to empower young African Americans today.

Beyond her educational efforts, Bethune was a powerful voice for civil rights. She understood that education alone could not overcome the deep-seated racial injustices of her time. Thus, she became actively involved in organizations like the NAACP and founded the National Council of Negro Women in 1935 to advocate for the rights of Black women. Bethune’s influence extended to political spheres as she became one of the first Black women to serve on President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Black Cabinet, significantly shaping policies that benefited African Americans during the Great Depression.

Her legacy is felt not only in Florida but across the nation. The impact of her work paved the way for future generations by emphasizing the importance of education as a tool for empowerment. Many schools and organizations now celebrate her contributions, ensuring that her ideals of equality and education continue to inspire new generations to fight for their rights.

The achievements of Mary McLeod Bethune have positively impacted my life in profound ways. Living in a world where access to education is continually emphasized, I often reflect on how her efforts opened doors for countless individuals, including me. Being able to attend school and participate in various learning opportunities is a privilege that many may take for granted. Bethune’s legacy drives me to value my education and recognize the sacrifices made by those before me. Her story inspires me to advocate for myself and my peers, understanding that education is not just a right but a powerful tool for change.

In conclusion, Mary McLeod Bethune was an extraordinary woman whose relentless pursuit of education and civil rights changed the lives of many individuals, especially in Florida. Her achievements are even more remarkable considering the barriers women, particularly Black women, faced during her time. Bethune’s legacy teaches us that one person’s commitment can create lasting change, inspiring future generations to value education and champion equality. As we continue to strive for a more just society, we can draw strength from her example, reminding ourselves that we too can make a difference.

1st Place: Nathan Samuel , 10th grade, Belen Jesuit Preparatory Academy; Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler

Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler: Champion of Healthcare and Social Justice in South Florida

When it comes to the battle for equality, leadership is defined not purely by words butthrough actions. Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler embodies this very principle, shadowing atransformative force throughout South Florida. Dr. Carey-Shuler’s legacy brings to mind thewords of Nelson Mandela, who once stated, “There can be no keener revelation of a society’ssoul than the way in which it treats its children.” Via her tireless work in healthcare andeducation, she has battled relentlessly to create a world where every child despite race orbackground has a fair chance at a healthy and successful life. Being a pioneer in the fields ofeducation, healthcare, and civic engagement, she truly has committed her life to breakingbarriers, empowering and inspiring marginalized communities, and also ensuring that everyindividual, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, has easy access to daily essential services.Her relentless advocacy for healthcare reform and social justice continues to cater to the livestoday, defining her as a true beacon of progress.

Born and raised in the segregated town of Fernandinho Beach, Florida, Dr. Carey-Shulerraised up witnessing firsthand the systemic inequities faced by African Americans. Healthcarewas often classified a luxury, not a right. Hospitals, schools, and job opportunities remainedinaccessible to many. Rather than simply succumbing to these limitations, she saw them as acatalyst for action. Her journey started in education where she served as an assistant superintendent for Miami-Dade county public schools. Proceeding this in 1957, she graduated as valedictorian from Peck High School, an segregated institution for African American Students.Her academic journey led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Speech from Florida A&MUniversity in 1961, an Master’s Degree in Speech and Communications from Ohio StateUniversity in 1962, and a Master’s Degree in Guidance from the University of Florida in 1969.Dr. Shuler’s ambition extended far beyond the classroom. Recognizing that systematic changerequired active participation in policy changing, she shifted to politics. In 1979, Governor BobGraham appointed her as the first African American woman to serve the Miami-Dade CountyBoard of County Commissioners.

Throughout her tenure as the first black woman to serve as Chair of the Miami-Dadecounty commision symbolizes a turning point in local governance. She spearheaded policies thatsignified healthcare expansion, housing initiatives, and educational opportunity forunderprivileged communities. Her leadership was not solely defined by symbolic victories, itwas truly a real, tangible improvement in people’s lives. Her leadership oversaw the launch of the“No More Stray Bullets” campaign, which targeted the public on the dangers of celebratorygunfire during holidays.

One of Dr. Carey-Shuler’s most symbolic contribution is her work in healthcareaccessibility. Recognizing that many Black and low-income families within South Florida lackedadequate medical resources, she championed initiatives to expand community health centers,while also funding preventive care programs bringing essential medical services to underservedneighborhoods. Under her leadership, public health programs focusing on heart disease, diabetes,and maternal health were expanded, directly benefiting thousands of families. She alsochampioned the founding of the Office of Countrywide Healthcare Planning and introduced an infill housing ordinance inorder to serve clear property titles, which facilitated homeownership for low income families.

Her advocacy did not stop there at policy-making. She worked closely with the Jacksonmemorial health system, one of the largest public hospitals in the nation, which in turn ensuredthat it remained committed to serving all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. She taught forincreased funding for healthcare programs focusing on minority groups, emphasizing howcrucial early screenings, medical education, and culturally competent care were. Her belief wassimple however quite powerful; she stated, “quality health care should never be a privilege, itshould be a fundamental right.”

Expanding beyond healthcare, Dr. Carey-Shuler has dedicated herself to foundingpathways for young people specifically in the fields of science, technology, engineering, andmedicine(STEM), fields where African Americans have historically been underrepresented. Shehas mentored aspiring healthcare professionals, funded scholarships and support programs thatintroduce students from minority groups to careers within the medical profession. Her dedicationto overseeing diversity in education led to the establishment of the Dr. Barbara Carey-ShulerEquity institute at Palm Beach State College in 2019. This institute provides resources and thesupport necessary for underserved and under-resourced students to ensure academic and personalsuccess.

Her impact extends far beyond professional opportunities, she instills in young people asense of purpose. She teaches them that their backgrounds do not signify nor should they limittheir potential. This resonated deeply within me, as I strive to enter the medical field one day,not just as a doctor, but hopefully as a leader who ensured healthcare reached the most vulnerable Dr. Carey-Shuler’s commitment to “breaking down systemic barriers inspires me to approach medicine not only as a science but as a mission.”

Dr. Carey-Shuler’s work particularly relongates with me due to my very own background.I was born in Sri Lanka, a country where access to quality healthcare remains a pressing issue,especially in rural communities. After moving to the United States with mygrandmother(Beatrice Eliot), who inspired my passion for cardiology, I became moreincreasingly aware of how disparities in medical access exist not solely arboreal but also here inSouth Florida as well. As a student from Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, I have dedicatedmyself to academics, robotics, and outing at HCA hospital, where I witness firsthand theimportance of compassionate and accessible healthcare. Seeing patients in need motivates mydetermination in becoming a cardiologist and working towards solutions that ensure life-savingtreatments are not limited by socioeconomic status. Dr. Carey-Shuler’s tireless work reminds methat meaningful change is achievable when leaders commit themselves to service, and she servesas a blueprint for the kind of physician and advocate I aspire to be.

Dr. Carey-Shuler’s story is truly a testament to the power of resilience, vision andcommunity driven leadership. She has not only showcased what it means to be a public servantbut has also catered the landscape of healthcare and education within South Florida. Her workcontinues to impact lives, this in all proves that Dr. Carey-Shuler’s story is a testament to thepower of resilience, vision, and community-driven leadership. She has not only redefined what itmeans to be a public servant but has also reshaped the landscape of healthcare and education inSouth Florida. Her work continues to impact lives, proving that one person’s dedication canuplift an entire generation.

In honor of her numerous contributions, a portion of Northwest 22nd Avenue in Miamihas been co-designated as “Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler Boulevard” which assures that her legacywill continue to inspire my generation and those to come. As we celebrate Black History Month,we must recognize that history is not simply just about the past, it is about the present and thefuture. Dr. Carey-Shuler is not merely a figure to be remembered; she is an ongoing force ofchange. Her work serves as a foundation for young leaders like myself who aspire to interceptmedicine with advocacy, ensuring that healthcare is accessible, inclusive, and transformative.

2nd Place:Isabella Chermeil, 10th grade, Dr. Joaquín García High School, Shanava Saintolien

How Mrs. Shanava Impacts Our Community 

In today’s time, some people believe that racism doesn’t happen very often towards African- Americans, but there are still those in this country that can immediately prove them wrong. Racism towards African-Americans has been around since the 17th century, and has affected the lives of African-Americans negatively. The issue of racism has improved little by little because of the courageous civil rights activists, like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Malcom X. Now, African-Americans have some opportunities to improve their lives. “What about the kids?,” you may ask. Mrs. Shanava Saintolien will take the time to make sure that African-American students have the opportunity to set up a good life.

Shanava Saintolien, also known as Mrs. Shanava, has impacted our community in Miami in many ways. She was part of staff in Breakthrough Miami University of Miami campus, but she had resigned and started an organization called Black Girls Who Math. Black Girls Who Math is an organization where black girls can feel confident and be able to break gender and racial norms in math-related careers. She has helped many Breakthrough Miami Scholars feel seen and appreciated and she is continuing to help the community by investing in the future.

Meeting Mrs. Shanava at Breakthrough Miami was a memorable experience of excitement and laughter. She has helped Breakthrough scholars feel welcomed and safe with her. She always made sure that the scholars were happy and working towards their future by sharing life changing opportunities and offering good advice. If any scholars are struggling with anything,  she will not hesitate to help them succeed and give them the attention that they deserve.

After leaving Breakthrough Miami, she strived to focus on helping the young women at her organization, Black Girls Who Math (BGWM). In today’s world it’s very rare to find diversity in STEM or math-related fields, and Mrs. Shanava decided to take a risk to change that. BGWM is an organization where young black women, particularly, high schoolers, are given the opportunity to be offered support for their career goals. For the community, she gives the students a chance to partake in services for the community, such as trips to an animal rescue organization and helping to  feed the people living in homeless shelters.

In conclusion, I would say that Mrs. Shanava Saintolien deserves to be celebrated in our community because she celebrates us and lifts us up. She is very inspirational and courageous. She strives to work for the future by driving students to their full potential. She understands that the future starts with the kids of today and that it’s very important to nourish them with knowledge and provide a variety of good opportunities. The community’s students deserve the spotlight, and we deserve to celebrate that.

3rd Place: Rakira Rowells, 12th grade, Miami Lakes Educational Center, Charlotte E. Ray”

Our Legacy Must Continue

It is state mandated for teachers to teach us about the Holocaust every year, it’s a very important event, however they want to restrict what and who we learn about when it comes to Black history. Why don’t we learn in depth about what happened during slavery the same way we did the Holocaust? Why are we silenced? Why is it that when I want to learn something about my culture, I have to read it in a banned book, search it up on the internet, or ask a family member? What’s the point of World History if I am only learning about one kind of history, White history? I had to learn that they used our children as alligator bait, used our skin as souvenirs from our lynching, made our men fornicate with one another for their enjoyment. As gruesome as it is, no one said history was pretty.

Every single year it’s always the same names and the same story. Martin Luther King Jr., he had a dream that white and black children can finally have a future together that doesn’t include segregation. Rosa Parks, she took a stance by not giving up her seat. Harriet Tubman, she led slaves to freedom. As we all know they shifted our society in a way that many people didn’t think we could progress in. But why don’t we learn about Martin Luther King Jr’s “Letter From Birmingham Jail”, the Montgomery Bus Boycott that was only supposed to last until Rosa Park’s trial but then it ended up lasting a whole year, or how Harriet Tubman helped John Brown in his raid. The same John Brown I was required to learn about for my AICE US History test, but I didn’t see Harriet’s name anywhere when it was related to John Brown. These are all facts I had to either read from a book or watch a documentary about. Why can’t my people get credit too?

Because I can’t find this history in school I learn it myself, so I know how much my culture has struggled so I can be in the position I am in today and have multi-ethnic friends. If it wasn’t for them I would’ve still been enslaved, discriminated against because of my skin color.

No one imagines that they will have their dreams crushed after putting forth their maximum effort. That you will be forced into a career that doesn’t resonate with you just because you weren’t taken seriously. That you will have to disappear from public life and never practice what you dreamed to be ever again. It’s hard to even imagine seeing all of your hard work crumbling down, which Charlotte E. Ray had to endure. She paved a way so future black women can tread in the law industry. She had a brilliant mind and attempted to create her own legal business, but was crushed by a society who couldn’t understand her sex or culture. She was obliterated, her means taken away by a system that never intended for a black woman to succeed in life. Even so she still became the first Black woman to obtain a law degree and admitted to the District of Columbia Bar. She knew she wouldn’t even get a sideways glance if people knew she was a Black woman so she enrolled in as C.E. Ray. After receiving her degree she opened her own business of commercial law and real estate. Even though she was overly qualified and an expert in her field, people couldn’t get over the fact that she was a Black woman. White clients refused to hire a Black attorney, White attorneys took her as a joke, and even judges were hostile towards her. Simply, her line of work was dominated by White male. So even if she did take on cases, they would be dismissed because of their prejudices. Therefore, she was only able to practice law for a few years before being forced to shut down her business. Money was slow, no one would hire her, so she was forced to be something she wasn’t, a teacher. She never attempted to practice law again because she knew she could never succeed in a society that was always against her.

This made me only realize that this is not the year to learn about black history. This is the year to put it into action. Because we are in a place where all of the efforts of Civil Rights activists have been regressed. Where instead of progressing it feels as if we are regressing. Whitewashing Black History, banning black history books, rolling back voting rights, repeating old tactics in new ways, as I like to call it ‘The New Jim Crow.’ Explaining how our criminal justice system still unjustifiably incarcerates black people. Or the January 6th incident when extremists were waving Confederate flags, indicating White supremacy. We are in a new era but why does it feel like I’m still being silenced? For this reason I want to become a criminal defense attorney to uplift my people. C.E. Ray has only made it clearer that this will be my line of work. I want to help keep the innocent out of jail and even from being executed for a crime they didn’t even commit. I want to help reduce unnecessary large sentences for petty crimes. I want my people to be heard. I want to pick up from where Charlotte left off and create my own business so it just won’t be little me changing the world because I will have a whole community behind me making a better world, a better justice system. Even though her accomplishments were minimally recognized throughout history, I will make sure her legacy continues.