People Newspapers
Contributor: Isabella Castillo
On March 29, the Junior League of Dallas (JLD) hosted its 12th annual Women LEAD Speech Competition and Awards Ceremony at JLD Headquarters, where $40,000 in scholarships were awarded to nine college-bound women from Dallas ISD.
Finalists were selected from a highly competitive set of 29 applicants from Emmett J. Conrad High School, Thomas Jefferson High School, and South Oak Cliff High School.
The Women LEAD (Learn. Excel. Achieve. Dream.) scholarship program was created to assist female high school students in pursuit of higher education, creating opportunities for future female leaders.
“The dedication, passion, and resilience demonstrated by these young women throughout the Women LEAD program has been inspiring,” said JLD President Tandra Allen. “As they prepare to embark on their next chapter in higher education, we are filled with immense pride and optimism for what the future holds. The Junior League of Dallas is proud to play a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of women leaders who will drive positive change in their communities and beyond.”
During the oratory competition, attendees and judges heard inspirational speeches from each of the top nine finalists, including: Samma Abdulrahman, Anica Ayala, Daniya Ayele, Lorreine Govea, Karla Gutierrez, Maria Hernandez, Marianee Moran Arguela, Lucero Sanchez, and Diana Torres.
Additionally, the students spoke about their passions and how receiving a Women LEAD scholarship will help them achieve their goals, chase their dreams, and create a reality that will make a positive impact on the world and inspire the people around them.
“We are incredibly proud to invest in these young women and their futures,” said Alexis Cook Simms, Chair of the Women LEAD Committee. “This scholarship program not only helps students continue their education but also empowers them to take action as leaders who will shape the future of our community.”
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