Each year, we’re excited to see the nominations come in for the 20 Under 21 feature. From artists, musicians and academic high-achievers to student athletes, leaders and community volunteers, we know we’ll be introduced to some of Southwest Gwinnett’s best and brightest.
This year was no exception. In fact, so many fantastic nominations came in, we had to up the number and make it 21 Under 21 instead. The young adults on the list (including the great group of honorable mentions) share common traits: perseverance, determination and a drive to work hard for themselves and their communities. And they do it while balancing advanced coursework, clubs, sports, service and in some cases, part-time jobs.
Nominated by their teachers, friends or members of the community, these shining students are definitely worth celebrating.
Allie West
Allie West, a senior at Norcross High School and former student at Cornerstone Christian Academy, is a strong leader and student, currently in the top 25% of her graduating class.
She is a member of the International Baccalaureate Club as well as the Best Buddies program, which organizes social events to foster inclusivity for students with disabilities.
Allie is also the founder and president of the NHS Film and Music Analysis Club and co-leads the NHS Fellowship of Christian Athletes band on Friday mornings during the FCA meetings. Depending on the need, Allie plays piano, acoustic or electric guitar.
Outside of school, Allie has been a student pilot at Centennial Aviation Academy for the past four years, on track to attain her private pilot license by spring 2025. She is also a member of the GA Tech Yellow Jacket Flying Club.
In the summers, Allie serves at Camp of the Woods in Speculator, NY, where she has held a variety of jobs. She has been attending Tapawingo girls camp there for eight years, and this past summer completed their Counselor in Training program. She also hiked eight of the 46 high peaks in the Adirondacks with a group of other girls her age.
Allie is applying to multiple colleges, including Georgia Tech, Auburn University and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and plans to continue flight training regardless of the school she attends. She also hopes to be part of a worship band since music is a big part of her life and would love to continue at Tapawingo as a counselor for the next couple of summers.
Beyond that, Allie’s goals are to earn a business degree while building up flight hours in hopes of finding a job as a pilot after college.
Through her many activities, she has learned that it’s worth it to keep doing things you truly enjoy, even if they become hard to prioritize.
“Whether it’s getting to look at the ground fall away as you take off in a plane, learning to play one of your favorite songs on guitar or gazing at a beautiful view after climbing a mountain, there are so many joys and wonderful opportunities in life,” she said.
Bobby Wolfenbarger
Bobby Wolfenbarger, a senior at Norcross High School, is an outstanding student, receiving the Georgia Certificate of Merit and a place on the honor roll for every semester of high school. He currently takes the most rigorous set of classes offered at NHS as a member of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program and holds a GPA of over 4.0.
Bobby was selected from the student body as one of three student members of the Counselors Advisory Committee, a group designed to allow students to talk with counselors, community stakeholders and administrators about issues inside the school in order to help meet the needs of the students there.
Outside of academics, Bobby has worked a job in the community for the past two years and plays multiple musical instruments — guitar, drums, bass and violin — with the goal of becoming proficient in all of them. He has also spent the past year building a computer in preparation for his anticipated major in computer engineering.
After graduation, Bobby hopes to attend a technology university such as Georgia Tech, M.I.T or California Tech. While in college, he plans to major in computer hardware engineering and pursue a doctorate degree in an engineering field. After that, he would like to get into the workforce with the goal of becoming an entrepreneur, starting or co-owning a business and being his own boss in the field of electronics.
While at NHS, Bobby has learned that staying on task is key to getting good grades, keeping good relationships with teachers and students and also to having a good time at school. Another important lesson he’s learned is to try and always take the leadership position.
“If you have a group assignment and everyone is getting off task, having those leadership skills is key to actually forming the group and making sure everyone [gets back on track],” he said.
Despite the extra amount of pressure that comes with being a leader and striving higher, Bobby shared that the lessons learned and knowing that you are prepared to handle challenges that might arise make it worthwhile.
Casey Silcott
Casey Silcott, a junior at Notre Dame Academy, is a strong student leader, dedicated to volunteer work and addressing the issue of period poverty in marginalized communities.
She first became aware of the issue through participation in the Dean Stuart Feldman Summer Science Institute at the UGA College of Pharmacy when a speaker, Dr. Shauna Markes-Wilson, highlighted the social determinants affecting marginalized and rural communities — including issues like pharmacy deserts and period poverty.
Casey learned that many young women and girls in these areas miss school for up to a week each month and are unable to participate consistently in sports due to a lack of access to menstrual products. This revelation sparked her interest in the topic, prompting her to research further and explore ways to make a difference.
With the support of her school’s administration and local community, Casey was able to promote awareness and collect donated items that would be distributed to two Georgia schools with high concentrations of poverty. After contacting the schools directly, Casey loaded up boxes of over five hundred feminine hygiene products and drove them there herself.
She is now targeting counties affected by Hurricane Helene, expanding outreach to those who may be even more vulnerable during recovery.
Through volunteering, Casey has learned valuable lessons in empathy and kindness. Whether it’s writing inspirational messages on bowls for children in Haiti or restocking shelves at the UGA Tate Center Food Pantry, these activities have not only nurtured her compassionate nature but have also helped her grow into a more mature individual who values the well-being of others.
Outside of school and volunteering, Casey has been dancing with a local ballet school since she was five, plays the violin and serves as a leader in her church’s youth ministry community. She also enjoys traveling, cooking and spending time with her friends and her dog, Oliver.After graduation, Casey plans to major in biomedical science with a minor in animal sciences. She has her sights set on prestigious universities, including Cornell, Dartmouth, Yale, the University of Georgia and Vanderbilt, with a clear vision for a future in veterinary medicine.
Charlie Boalch
Charlie Boalch, a senior at Paul Duke STEM High School, has a unique gift of being a leader on land and also in the water. He is an AP and dual enrollment student in the top 5% of his class, student organization officer and competitive swimmer who practices up to six times a week.
Charlie is also an active member of his high school’s Technology Student Association (TSA) and has won several competitions at the state and national level.
Last year, as a junior, he completed the entire Digital and Innovative Technology Pathway at Paul Duke, which included taking computer science, cybersecurity, web design and game design classes. Upon completing the pathway, he tested and received certifications in CompTIA+, Unity Associate Developer, and Information Technology Specialist for Software Development.
Outside of tech and academics, Charlie is an active swimmer for both Norcross High School and Spartans Aquatics. Two highlights from his junior season include placing 2nd in Gwinnett County’s high school championship for 100 back and being a finalist for the GHSA 7A state championship.
Most recently, he has attended several senior state meets, competed nationally at the Speedo Spring Cup in May 2024 and has lettered in academics at Paul Duke and in swimming at NHS, demonstrating the harmony between his city’s two public high schools.
Though it’s been difficult to balance the demands of academic coursework with competitive swimming, Charlie has been willing to make sacrifices in order to find time for the activities he’s part of.
“The most important lesson I’ve learned,” he said, “is that you can’t do it all at once, but you can find time for everything by prioritizing what’s important to you.”
After graduation, Charlie plans to major in computer science, with the goal of becoming a software engineer, though he hasn’t yet decided which university he wants to attend.
Cole Creel
Cole Creel, a junior at Wesleyan School is a hardworking student, involved in academic clubs, acting, music and sports.
He has earned outstanding achievement awards, honor roll and the Iron Wolf Award in his freshman and sophomore years and a state championship last year with his swim team.
He’s a member of the National Honor Society and International Thespian Society, as well as Wesleyan’s varsity cross country, quiz bowl, math and chess teams. He’s also part of the Chapel Band and active in the theater department.
For the past two years, Cole has participated in the school’s Spring Play where he had the lead in both productions. He was also involved in Mock Trial, which gave him a new perspective on the job of an attorney. Though he found it interesting, and his team made it to the district level, the experience helped him decide that law is not where his true passion resides.
This past summer, Cole attended an Honors Engineering Camp at the University of Georgia, and plans to major in mechanical or aerospace engineering after high school. Georgia Tech is his number one choice, but he wants to look into other schools as well to see how engineering is approached uniquely at different institutions. He hopes to one day use his engineering degree to work for a company that pioneers for the future, making the world more reliable, sustainable and efficient.
Outside of school, Cole is involved in Boy Scouts and recently completed his Eagle Project — building planter boxes for his grandmother’s reading garden in Wesleyan’s lower school. He also organizes and hosts his grade’s Bible study and volunteers at Perimeter Church as part of the worship band and production team for their KidsThrive ministry.“Through sports and academics, I’ve learned to persevere,” he said. “how to push through hard workouts in order to achieve my goals and juggle multiple assessments in order to succeed. However, my extracurriculars have taught me the importance of creating meaningful connections. From Mock Trial to the Spring Play to swim team, it’s about people and the bonds formed through similar interests and goals.”
Eleanor Keller (Atlas) Grogin
Eleanor Keller (Atlas) Grogin is a senior at Paul Duke STEM High School. They have been active in set design since the start of the drama program at Paul Duke and have served as the co-head or head of the program for three years.
This year, Atlas is also completing an internship in Technical Theater at PDS, balancing the hours spent constructing and painting two to three sets a year with being ranked 10th in their graduating class.
For the school’s recent production of Alice in Wonderland, Atlas led the team tasked with designing and building all of the show’s set pieces. In December, they will be producing James and the Giant Peach with the PDS International Thespian Society.
Atlas became involved in set design through an interest in building and exploring engineering in high school, joining their older sister in the drama program their freshmen year.
“Set is a good way to explore creativity in design, leadership and working in groups,” said Atlas.
Academically, Atlas is part of the Georgia Tech Distance Math dual enrollment program and is taking linear algebra and multivariate calculus, as they had already taken all of the math courses offered at PDS.
Additionally, as a life-long Girl Scout, they have been selected by GSUSA to travel to Europe in July 2025 with other girls from across the country to visit Our Chalet World Centre.
After high school, Atlas plans to major in industrial engineering with a focus on manufacturing, in part to fulfill a life-long dream of designing and building the things you see on “How It’s Made.” They have always been interested in how products are made, as well as the idea of taking a project from design to a real-life product that can be used and sold worldwide. They hope this career path will allow them to do that.
In 10th grade, Atlas had back surgery for scoliosis, spending nearly six weeks on bed rest before recovering and getting back into school. Overcoming that challenge and continuing to excel academically and in extracurricular activities is a testament to their determination and perseverance.
Elizabeth Barrett
A junior at Wesleyan School, Elizabeth Barrett has a heart for service that shows in her school life as well as in her impact on the local community.
On campus, she’s involved in sports medicine for football, basketball and soccer, working with the school’s two athletic trainers. “We learn CPR and first aid skills, taping techniques and emergency training, assisting during games and practices for all athletes at Wesleyan,” she said.
Elizabeth also helps with AV for chapels and other major events throughout the year and is an ambassador for the school, showing prospective families around campus and sharing what she loves most about being a student there.
She is a member of SALSA (Students Advocating for Life without Substance Abuse), a group committed to not using substances or alcohol, encouraging students in lower grades to do the same. And she attends weekly bible study on campus, a weekly community bible study with other teens and is a member of Peachtree Corners Baptist where she’s involved in the student ministry.
Outside of school, Elizabeth works for King of Pops at major events in the area. She has also started a marketing internship, helps a neighbor with her business and babysits often for families in Peachtree Corners.
For the past few years, Elizabeth has attended Student Leadership University, a summer conference offering the opportunity to learn from major influencers around the world about how to become a better leader.
She graduated from the program this past summer and is currently in her second year as an ambassador for them. Through SLU, she has traveled to Orlando, D.C., London, Normandy, Oxford and Paris.
She has also been abroad on several mission trips, including to the Dominican Republic and Kenya. She will be going to Costa Rica this spring to help build houses.
Elizabeth’s plans after graduation are to go to college to become a pediatric nurse.
“I’ve personally experienced health challenges resulting in hospital stays when I was younger,” she shared, “and the nurses really changed the whole experience for the better. My goal is to do the same for kids and be a source of joy and comfort in a difficult time.”
Emily Sapough
Emily Sapough is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma student at Norcross High School and serves as co-president of REACH, a club dedicated to community service.
She is also co-president of the Spanish National Honor Society, and is on the executive committee of the English National Honor Society and the Science National Honor Society.
Throughout high school, Emily has volunteered regularly at the Neighborhood Cooperative Ministry when they have a drive-thru pantry. Because of her volunteer work there, when it came time to do her Girl Scout Gold Award project, she chose to build and install a “Little Free Food Pantry” on the co-op grounds. This allows clients to grab food anytime they need it, even when the co-op is not open.
In addition to volunteering and academics, Emily is the flute section leader for the Norcross Marching Band, is a varsity swimmer and plays tennis. Outside of school, she is a member of the two-time state champion Lady Blue Devils water polo team, an assistant coach and lifelong swimmer of the Peachtree Corners Waverunners and a lifeguard.
In her spare time, Emily propagates plants and gardens and plans to study environmental science in college — somewhere in the Southeast — after graduation. She wants to combine her love for gardening and growing houseplants with the subjects she likes best in school — math, biology and history. Though she’s unsure of her career path after college, she hopes to use technology to improve the human condition in a sustainable way, balancing what is best for humans with what is best for nature.
During her time at NHS and her participation in student activities, Emily has come to appreciate the importance of time management, reliability and kindness. To excel in her various commitments while maintaining academic success, she has learned to prioritize tasks and avoid procrastination.
She discovered that “marching band practice becomes more difficult when members are absent and that regular attendance at swim practice leads to improved times,” so she always makes it a point to attend. Through her volunteer efforts, she has also experienced the rewarding feeling that comes from helping others.
Ezekiel Theodoris
Ezekiel Theodoris, a senior at Norcross High School, is the model student-athlete and leader. He works hard in the classroom, carrying a 3.38 GPA, is a leader on the football team and in the community and also works a part-time job to help with finances at home.
That hard work and Ezekiel’s commitment to team, school and community does not go unnoticed by the people around him.
“Ezekiel is respected by his peers and every teacher at Norcross High School,” said Nathan Thornton, offensive line coach at NHS. “If there is an opportunity for community service, he’s there to help. If there is a leadership training opportunity, he will be present because he wants to learn how to bring others with him.”
Ezekiel has been a member of the Norcross Football Leadership Council for three years and was honored last year as the first Norcross Football True Blue Way recipient, an award that recognizes student athletes who excel in the classroom, on the field and in the community. He is also part of the Gwinnett Student Leadership Team for the entire county.
During high school, Ezekiel has led numerous projects that have made a difference in the community — assisting at Fully Furnished Ministries, which delivers furniture to those in need; reading to elementary school kids with other high school football players in the offseason; and helping to clean up after two local community events.
On the field, Ezekiel is a three-year starter in the middle linebacker position with a long list of impressive stats, including 131 total tackles, 85 first hits and 46 assists. This season, he was named a 2024 Gwinnett Daily Post Defensive Player of the Week and a 2024 North Georgia High School Football Player of the Week.
After graduation, Ezekiel plans to pursue a major in business and architectural science while continuing his athletic career at the next level.
He shared that he has learned a lot from his time at NHS, including one particularly important lesson. “I’ve learned to find comfort in the uncomfortable,” he said, “meaning it’s okay to fail as long as you’ve tried and put yourself out there.”
Isabella (Izzy) Oakes
Isabella (Izzy) Oakes is a senior and International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma candidate at Norcross High School, active in academics, sports and several extracurricular clubs.
She earned the Georgia Certificate of Merit, which ranked her in the top 5% of her graduating class in her junior year. She is the president of the Readers Rally club, something that she has participated in since elementary school. And she has been an executive member of the student council at NHS for all four years, serving this year as senior vice president.
Izzy is also a member of the Mock Trial team and has been to state all three years that she has participated, recently winning Outstanding Performance recognition in competition round.
During her freshman year, Izzy played volleyball for NHS and rejoined the program this year to manage the varsity team. She is also a strong runner and member of NHS’ cross country team. Participating in high school sports has helped her “learn a lot about perseverance and the importance of camaraderie,” she said.
Outside of school, Izzy has been an active member of Girl Scouts since first grade and was selected by GSUSA to travel to Europe in July 2025 with other girls from across the country to visit Our Chalet World Centre. She is also working on her Gold Award project this year, building a native garden at Peachtree Elementary School — a project that ties into her love of biology and the environment.
In addition to balancing a full schedule of academics, scouting, sports and activities, Izzy also works part time at the local YMCA as a camp counselor during the summer and in the Kids Zone two to four days a week after school.
After graduation, Izzy hopes to study biology at the University of Georgia and eventually earn a PhD so that she can become a researcher at the CDC.
Jayden Lee
Jayden Lee, a senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), is an accomplished student, leader and taekwondo competitor who uses his gifts to serve the community. After seven years of successfully competing at national and international levels, he earned a spot on the USA Taekwondo Team’s reserve roster for the 2024 World Championships in Hong Kong.
Despite the accolades, Jayden has sought to leverage his experience in taekwondo to uplift others. Since his freshman year, he has volunteered at Atlanta Milal, a faith-based organization supporting individuals with physical and mental impairments. His weekend taekwondo classes are a favorite among Milal’s members, showcasing their determination and joy in physical activity.
Reflecting on this experience, Jayden shared, “I have learned innumerable lessons from interacting one-on-one with each of the students — from discovering empathy in leadership to grit in passion. I am proud of serving an under-represented population.”
Jayden believes that leadership is shaped by experience. After transferring to GAC in his freshman year, he quickly earned the role of principal cellist in the school’s Master Chamber Orchestra.
Initially, he struggled to direct suggestions toward upperclassmen, fearing they might be perceived as pretentious. However, by building relationships with his section members, he learned to create a supportive environment, facilitating both effective rehearsals and personal connections. As a senior, he strives to unify his section while pushing everyone to reach their potential.
Jayden also recognized an opportunity for greater interaction among different school levels at GAC and advocated for expanding the peer-tutoring program to include middle and elementary schools. By collaborating with GAC’s academic committee, he ensured that dedicated high school students could serve a wider population, fostering connections across age groups.
Jayden’s passion for medicine began in fifth grade when he dissected a shark, and he was further inspired by reading “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot. He has taken on a leadership role in GAC’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) program, which fosters students’ interests in healthcare careers.
Jayden’s aspiration is to specialize in orthopedic surgery, aiming to connect new technologies to existing systems and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Joaquin Vicens
Joaquin Vicens, a senior at Norcross High School, is a hardworking and determined student who balances an active life with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program.
He has been integral in the opening and running of his family’s café, U&ME Coffee Bakery & Wine, involved with everything from the construction of the space to making the coffees and sandwiches. Through this, Joaquin has learned what sacrifice is in the work-world and what it takes to run a business.
Joaquin is a leader of the Norcross in Action program at school, helping to organize and manage Norcross Social Emotional Learning sessions. During the sessions, team games are organized for 9th graders so that they can have fun while learning about the IB Program.
“My job is to assist teachers by presenting the slides that we make,” said Joaquin. “I also help with other tasks like creating any props we may need. Being asked to present in front of upwards of a hundred students has helped me to improve my speaking skills.”
Joaquin also serves as an ambassador to new families and students as they transition to NHS. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys soccer and is an active member of his youth group and a young men’s bible study at his church.
After graduation, he plans to pursue a business degree, with the University of Georgia as his top-choice school. From there he’d like to get a job and eventually start a family of his own, though he said his true goals aren’t financial, but to “serve Jesus faithfully and do what he leads me to do.”
During his time at NHS and with the opening of his family’s business, Joaquin shared that he has learned the importance of organization, better service skills, and that when running a business, you have to strive for perfection.
Jordan Adeyemi
Duluth resident Jordan Adeyemi attended high school at Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire until his graduation in June 2024. He excelled as a leader throughout his high school years — as a varsity soccer captain, co-head of Black Students of Excellence (BSE) and as a student listener, providing support for fellow students going through difficult times.
Jordan was also part of the youth advisor board for a mental health organization and a Special Olympics Youth Ambassador for Georgia, a role that allowed him to raise awareness around inclusion and support for those with disabilities.
Additionally, he co-founded Shoeless Ones, a nonprofit that donates athletic shoes to children in underserved communities. And he spent a month in Costa Rica during the summer working with a volunteer organization to complete small projects to help communities there.
“During the Costa Rica trip, I learned about the importance of community engagement, environmental sustainability and the power of service in addressing local challenges,” said Jordan. “Regardless of our age and resources, we all have the power to make an impact.”
Outside of volunteer work, Jordan is also a dedicated student-athlete. He played soccer throughout high school and was a US Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) player with Concorde Fire Soccer Association, as well as an ECNL Academy player with the Gwinnett Soccer Academy. He’s also served as a seasonal soccer referee for the US Soccer Federation since January 2018.
Jordan’s hard work on and off the field has earned him numerous awards and scholarships over the years, including ESPYs Youth Leadership Award 2023, Disney Dreamers Academy 2023, Georgia Youth Leadership Award 2024, Dell Scholar 2024 and Goizueta Legacy Scholar 2024.
Jordan currently attends Clark University in Massachusetts where he is successfully balancing both academic and sports commitments. He’s studying psychology and data science with a focus on pursuing a career that combines both fields.
“My future goals include working as a research neuropsychologist or a clinical researcher where data can be utilized to understand the human brain,” he said. “Ultimately, I hope to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare or research sectors.”
Julianna Cangiano Ayala
Julianna Cangiano Ayala, a senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), is distinguished for her leadership, academic achievements and commitment to serving others.
Over her high school career, she has taken on numerous responsibilities, including managing GAC’s biannual Red Cross blood drive. Her efforts have contributed to saving lives, particularly during the current blood shortage crisis, where she exceeded collection goals.
Reflecting on this project, Julianna shared, “I’ve had to adapt and learn leadership techniques to motivate people to do something for the greater good of the community.”
A proud advocate for her Hispanic heritage, Julianna has also played a key role in organizing and performing in GAC’s Hispanic Heritage Chapels. “My heritage is a very important aspect of my life. It surrounds me every day, from speaking Spanish with my parents to enjoying the cultural meals they prepare,” she explained. “I have learned to love my heritage, and I will continue to exude my culture throughout my life.”
Both of her parents were born in Puerto Rico and moved to Georgia to pursue their professions, something that has profoundly shaped Julianna’s appreciation for her roots.
Her drive to pursue a career as a physician is deeply influenced by her father, a licensed psychiatrist. “I’ve had the opportunity to shadow my dad during his workdays, and seeing the impact he made on his patients immediately inspired me. I knew I wanted to make a similar impact and help others in my community.”
Julianna’s academic dedication is evident through her membership in the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society and Beta Club. Athletically, she has been a key member of GAC’s varsity tennis team since her freshman year. Outside of school, Julianna balances her academic and extracurricular commitments with part-time jobs in the food industry and as a lifeguard.
Reflecting on her journey at GAC, Julianna credits the school for shaping both her academic and spiritual life.
“GAC has been the backbone of my academic and spiritual journey,” she said. “The challenging classes, encouraging teachers and exceptional opportunities have taught me to persevere through challenges and not give up in the face of setbacks.”
Khoa Dang
Khoa Dang is a Peachtree Corners resident and a sophomore at Georgia State University, majoring in business economics. He came to the U.S. at the age of 17 and has already made an impact academically and through student and community activities.
Khoa serves as the executive vice president of the GSU Dunwoody Business Club, leading initiatives that provide students with opportunities for professional development and networking. He is also a volunteer student assistant for the director of the school’s Asian Studies Program, helping at events such as Culture Fest, Chinese New Year and the Japan Arts Festival.
Additionally, Khoa has held the position of senator of student services and 94th speaker of the senate in the Student Government Association (SGA) at GSU Dunwoody. There, he sponsored a bill allowing first-semester students to be eligible for senate positions, expanding opportunities for new students to become involved in leadership roles.
Another accomplishment during his time in SGA was co-leading the K-Pop Dance Workshop, an event that drew over 217 students from GSU and Georgia Tech. A collaboration between GSU Dunwoody’s K-Culture Club, the SGA and Tech’s GTSeoulstice dance team, the event fostered lasting connections among students from different campuses.
Academically, Khoa has earned spots on the Dean’s List and President’s List and is a proud member of the Alpha Beta Gamma Society and Honor Society. He shared that his passion for economics drives him to “explore innovative solutions to societal challenges to better understand how businesses can create sustainable value for their communities.”
Beyond campus, he is an active participant in community initiatives. He attended a Gwinnett County Transit community meeting alongside Vietnamese community leaders to address how public transportation could be improved for more effective operation. And he has interned as a paralegal at a real estate law firm in Norcross.
Khoa is also a graduate of the Glance Gwinnett leadership program and actively involved in the Georgia Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce.
“Looking ahead, I am committed to using my education and leadership skills to make a meaningful impact on my community,” he said. “I believe that education and service are powerful tools for creating lasting change, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Makenzie Griffin
Makenzie Griffin, a Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) junior, exemplifies leadership, athleticism and a deep commitment to her community.
As a team leader in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Student Visionaries of the Year Campaign, Makenzie raised over $60,000 for cancer patients — an experience that left a lasting impact.
“This experience taught me the true meaning of putting others first and showed how much change we can create as a community,” she shared.
Makenzie’s dedication to service extends beyond fundraising. She participated in a mission trip to Guatemala with her school, helping build two homes for families in need, further showcasing her compassion and commitment. In addition, she regularly serves in her local community, actively participating in her church, Gwinnett Church, where she attends InsideOut on Sunday nights.
At GAC, Makenzie shines as a multi-sport athlete, competing in varsity cheerleading, varsity diving, varsity lacrosse and travel lacrosse. Her skills helped the lacrosse team make school history by winning the 6A Region Championship.
Reflecting on this achievement, she noted, “The team learned that hard work pays off and that putting others before yourself is essential.”
Makenzie plans to pursue medicine after high school. Her passion for the field stems from her grandparents’ legacy — her grandfather was a child psychiatrist and her grandmother was a nurse.
“I have always looked up to both of them for their compassion for the people around them, and I hope to follow in their footsteps,” she explained. Driven by a desire to help others and make a lasting impact, Makenzie is eager to continue their tradition of service and care.
Grateful for her time at GAC since kindergarten, Makenzie said, “GAC has shaped who I am by pushing me to be my best and always supporting me.”
She credits the school with helping her grow mentally, physically and spiritually.
“My teachers made me love learning, my coaches helped me grow as an athlete and my faith has deepened through chapels, Bible classes and mission trips.”
Mihir Pai
Mihir Pai, a senior at Paul Duke STEM High School, is an exceptional student. He is the president of both the DECA and TSA (Technological Student Association) chapters at PDS, leading over 100 members in each. He has won regional, state, national and international competitions with TSA and DECA. And he was recognized by the Georgia Department of Education for a cybersecurity awareness poster that he designed.
Mihir has completed four major Carrier in Technical Education pathways available at Paul Duke — engineering, cybersecurity, computer science and web development. And through self-study, has also earned IT industry certifications, including CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA Security+ and a GIAC Global Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) certification while keeping up with his academic coursework.
Some of his other high school achievements and accolades include being named CTAE (Career Technical and Agricultural Education) Student of the Year for 2024–2025; the Dr. Jonathon Wetherington Trailblazer Award in 2024; and the Georgia Merit Award from University of Georgia in 2024 for being in the top 5% of his class.
Mihir has taken 11 AP classes during high school and is currently doing his first year of dual enrollment, taking three classes in two colleges — linear algebra and computer science 1301 at Georgia Tech and English 1102 at Georgia State University.
Despite the intense academic schedule, Mihir also makes time to volunteer, working on STEM activities with students at his former elementary school on Fridays.
Following high school, Mihir hopes to attend Georgia Tech to pursue a BS in computer science. After that, he plans to get a master’s degree in cybersecurity.
“My goal is to develop my knowledge and skills in cybersecurity and AI,” he said. “I plan to apply it to design better ways to prevent cyberattacks and enhance our cybersecurity defenses using AI capabilities.”
Moira Christ
Moira Christ is a Peachtree Corners resident and 2021 graduate of Norcross High School, where she earned an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma and was on the honor roll all four years.
During that time, she was also captain of the mock trial team and a member of the National Honor Society, the Science National Honor Society, the Best Buddies program and the varsity tennis team.
After graduating at 16, Moira was selected for the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange program — a State Department fellowship to study in Germany for one year. Moira lived with a German host family and attended the local German high school as a youth ambassador from the United States.
Moira then enrolled in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University where she is currently in her junior year. Majoring in international politics with a minor in German studies, Moira’s college activities include the Georgetown Prison Outreach Initiative, the Delta Phi Epsilon Professional Foreign Service Sorority and the Georgetown International Relations Club.
Moira’s interests in studying abroad have continued at Georgetown with a summer spent at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, a spring break spent in Ghana and plans to spend her next semester studying at the Singapore Management University.
Last summer, she interned with the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs where she supported the U.S. government’s efforts to promote professional and cultural exchanges.
Additional volunteer experience includes working as the programs and partnerships officer for Hope 4 Young Girls where she helped develop reproductive health education content, economic empowerment opportunities and primary and secondary education programs for Tanzanian teens. Moira is currently the president of Georgetown SAFE (Students Advancing Food Equity) a student-run organization that aims to reduce food waste, combat food insecurity and promote healthy foods in the Georgetown community. And she is also a trained facilitator for Georgetown Health Education Services’ Bringing in the Bystander small group trainings — a comprehensive two-hour program for all first-year and transfer students on sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, consent and bystander intervention.
Sarah Gruber
Sarah Gruber is a well-rounded teen, excelling in academics and athletics as a senior at Notre Dame Academy while also serving and giving back to the community.
She recently earned her Girl Scout Gold Award, the organization’s highest leadership award. For her project, she created and donated 17 handmade “lily pad” seats to a children’s hospital. These seats attach to the bottom of an IV pole so a pediatric patient — who is on an IV and weak from treatments — can sit and be pushed around the hospital, providing them with increased mobility.
Sarah constructed the lily pads from wood and painted them with fun designs and also assembled and donated 525 coloring packets for pediatric patients, spending over 500 hours to complete the project.
Sarah is also the recipient of the Young Woman of Distinction Award through Girl Scouts. And, prior to the Gold Award, she earned the Silver Award with a project titled “Brain Breaks.” This included designing and fabricating larger-than-life games, such as a wall-mounted magnetic Scrabble board and a chess/checkers board and pieces for students and teachers to use whenever they need a break.
In addition to her Scouting projects, Sarah is involved in several volunteer groups, serving as president of the Community Outreach Club and founder and president of the Outdoors Club at school and as a member of the Pebble Tossers Teen Leadership Program.
Athletically, she has been on the varsity volleyball and basketball teams throughout high school and has served in team captain roles while being honored with several MVP awards.
She is the secretary of the National Honor Society, house president of the Student Council and has served as secretary of the Key Club. In addition, she is in the top three of her class in grades/academics while taking the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) coursework and is a Georgia Certificate of Merit recipient.
Following graduation in 2025, Sarah is planning to attend college on a pre-law track and continue serving and giving back to the community.
Serina Obi
Serina Obi, a senior at Norcross High School, is known for her exceptional dedication to service and leadership within her school and the community. Through nearly 500 hours of volunteer service, she has committed herself to supporting both first-generation students and students with special needs.
Her firsthand experience as a Nigerian and Japanese first-generation student inspired her to establish the First Gen Club at her school, where she leads efforts to provide resources and support for other students facing similar challenges. This initiative reflects her commitment to improving the community and creating an inclusive space where everyone can excel, regardless of their background or external factors that might hold them back.
Beyond her service work, Serina also excels academically, participating in the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program, which has sharpened her critical thinking skills and global perspective.
Despite the demands of the program, she continues to take on multiple leadership roles, including serving as founder and president of the First Gen Club; vice president of the Student Council; president of the National Science Honors Society; vice president of the National Art Honors Society; and executive in the National Honors Society, the International Baccalaureate Club and the African American Leadership Roundtable (AALR).
Serina’s leadership extends off-campus as well, where she has contributed as a junior architect for Gito Nigeria Investments Ltd. Through these diverse experiences, she has developed a strong commitment to community, art, science and problem-solving.
Serina’s resilience and determination are evident in her ability to overcome personal challenges, including her father’s battle with cancer, while maintaining a high level of academic achievement. Her unique multicultural background — having been raised in Nigeria and spending summers in Japan — further enriches her perspective, fueling her passion for architecture and her long-term goal of becoming an architect and businesswoman.
“At the core of everything she does is her unwavering dedication to fostering a community where all students, no matter their circumstances or background, can succeed,” said Serina’s sister, Diane Obi. “Serina’s creativity, leadership and dedication to service make her an outstanding candidate [for 20 Under 21], deserving of recognition.”
William Duke
William Duke, a senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), exemplifies leadership, service and a commitment to his community.
As an Eagle Scout with GAC’s Troop 21 BSA in the Northeast Georgia Region, William completed his Eagle Scout project last October, restoring a forgotten gravesite in the city of Duluth. His dedication to honoring veterans buried at the site reflects his deep respect for their service.
Inspired by his father, a lieutenant colonel in the Army National Guard, William plans to continue his family’s legacy of military service after college.
“I felt especially drawn to restoring the Brewer-Quinn gravesite when selecting my Eagle Scout project out of respect for the veterans buried at the site,” William shared. “I come from a family of veterans and hope to serve in the military someday too.”
The project, proposed by the Duluth Historical Society, involved clearing invasive plants, restoring graves dating back to the Civil War and honoring the Brewer-Quinn family. Over the course of 130 volunteer hours, William led fellow Scouts, coordinated with local businesses and collaborated with city officials to ensure the project’s success.
Through this effort, William learned the importance of teamwork, leadership and community engagement. Because William was only 17 years old when he earned the rank of Eagle, he was able to stay active in his troop for a full year, serving as senior patrol leader, among other various leadership positions.
Beyond Scouting, William is an active member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club and National Art Honor Society at GAC. He is a dedicated student-athlete, lettering in cross country and swimming, and he has received recognition for his visual arts work. As William considers his college options, he is focused on programs with strong ROTC opportunities. For William, his faith and Scouting background serve as guiding principles as he prepares to take on new challenges in college, the military and beyond.
Honorable Mentions
Aya Jilalu — Paul Duke STEM High School
Aya Jilalu has been instrumental in the growth and development of her school’s Quiz Bowl program, helping the club develop its identity and culture within the school and in the Georgia quiz bowl community. She has driven excellence and membership in the club through creating greater public awareness at PDS and by helping with the quiz bowl program at the local middle school so that players coming in as freshmen will already have experience.
Outside of her unrelenting commitment to quiz bowl, Aya has also maintained high academic standards. She will graduate in the top 3% of her class and is interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and computer science after graduation, combining her interests in programming and languages to work with technical applications that will allow her to apply linguistic knowledge.
Bella Andrean — Georgia Tech
Bella Andrean has managed to overcome adversity in her life to excel in everything she does. Despite growing up in a lower-income home with first generation parents and a childhood diagnosis of a heart problem, she has never given up and always knew she was destined for great things in life.
In addition to graduating from Paul Duke STEM High School in 2023 as an AP scholar with a 4.5 GPA and a Capstone diploma, Bella is also an exceptional athlete. After quitting gymnastics due to injury, she quickly picked up swimming and qualified and competed at state and sectionals in high school. She continues to excel in athletics at GA Tech as part of the school’s cheerleading team and swim club. She is currently in her second year of college, studying business administration and public policy. Bella also serves as communications chair on the leadership board of the GA Tech Promise Program, which focuses on providing resources to lower-income students.
Gabriel Munoz-Najar Fernandez — Notre Dame Academy
Gabriel Munoz-Najar Fernandez is a high school senior at Notre Dame Academy, committed to volunteering and giving back to others. An active member of the Totus Tuus Permanent Formation Community through the Catholic Mission of the Divine Child, he serves as a coach, group facilitator, assistant catechist and server. The community program is dedicated to the evangelization of the Hispanic community in Georgia from ages five to adult, and Gabriel has been actively involved with them for eight years, volunteering and taking on responsibilities according to his age.
Larry Men — Wesleyan School
Larry Men is a high school junior, active in many academic and extracurricular activities. He is a section leader in the marching band; involved in theater, where he has had roles in several school productions; participates in mock trial, robotics and debate; and is a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society as well as the Model Arab League, a debate and discussion club similar to Model UN.
He is also active in the Technology Student Association (TSA), competing in photography, debate, video and film production, music production and animation at the state and national levels and has placed in the top 10 in many events in the state.
After graduation, Larry would like to study law and international affairs in Washington D.C. with the goal of pursuing a career in international diplomacy or politics.
Maya Arora — Wesleyan School
Maya Arora is an active part of her school community as well as her local community. On campus at Wesleyan, she is involved in student government and sports medicine and is a member of the Omicron Society (doing community service multiple days each week). She is also part of the cross country team and will be going on a Wesleyan mission trip this spring.
Yvonne Coleman — Norcross High School
Yvonne Coleman, a high school senior, is the president of Norcross Reach, a service club at NHS. She is also student council president, tasked with overseeing all of the service projects organized and facilitated by the student council. And has been the captain of Norcross Mock Trial for two years, earning several Outstanding Attorney and Outstanding Performance awards. Additionally, she was accepted into and competed in The Gladiator, an international mock trial competition.
Outside of school, Yvonne has volunteered at a summer camp for two summers and is now a staff member of the camp. She has also written for a marine biology magazine and hopes to get her scuba diving certification to aid field marine biologists in their conservation efforts.
After graduation, she hopes to attend the University of Notre Dame and Harvard Law and is planning to pursue a career in constitutional law in order to work on the United States Supreme Court. Yvonne has already been admitted into the Georgia Student Bar Association as she passed the student bar exam with honors.
This article can also be found in the digital and print versions of Southwest Gwinnett magazine (Nov/Dec 2024).
