ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS!

EMILY WONG (OCTOBER 2023 RECIPIENT)
Emily Wong is our STEM Superhero winner for her imaginative solution to tackle food insecurity in her community! In her essay, Emily proposed the creation of 'Garden Guardians,' a team of volunteers who would transform vacant lots and unused spaces into thriving community gardens. These gardens would provide fresh produce to those in need and serve as outdoor classrooms for hands-on STEM learning. Emily's creative approach to addressing a pressing social issue, coupled with her passion for STEM education, captured the hearts of the judges. Congratulations, Emily, on your remarkable achievement!

SHREEYA IYER (MAY 2021 RECIPIENT)
Shreeya Iyer, above right, captivated the judges with her unique initiative to promote sustainable fashion. She proposed "Re-Fashionista," a program that organizes clothing swap events and upcycling workshops in her community. Participants learn how to repurpose old clothes into stylish, new outfits, reducing textile waste and inspiring creativity. Shreeya's project highlights her passion for fashion and environmental responsibility, impressing the judges with its innovative and stylish approach. Congratulations, Shreeya!

LENA ORTIZ (JULY 2022 RECIPIENT)
Lena Ortiz, above right, impressed the judges with her groundbreaking project to reduce food waste and hunger. She proposed "Hunger Heroes," a community initiative that collects surplus food from local businesses and redistributes it to families in need. Lena's project also includes educational workshops on reducing food waste and composting. Her innovative approach to tackling food insecurity and promoting sustainability captured the judges' admiration. Congratulations, Lena!

AVANI DESAI (SEPTEMBER 2020 RECIPIENT)
Avani Desai stood out with her innovative idea to promote environmental education through real life experiences. She proposed "Eco Explorers," a program that transforms local parks into interactive learning trails. Each trail would feature educational stations with activities on topics about plants, animals, and the planet. Avani's project aims to inspire young minds to appreciate and protect the natural world through hands-on learning. Congratulations, Avani, on your inspiring vision!