Join us this Juneteenth to connect, lead, and build what’s next — together.

Teens Ages 13-18

Juneteenth Future Leaders Scholarship

Scholarship:  $1000

 

Selection Process: Essay + Interview

Submit Essay by:  April 13, 2026 (Use form.)

Interviews Scheduled:  May 1-10, 2026

Overview
The Juneteenth Future Leaders Scholarship honors high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate **voice, leadership, and vision for their future**. Recipients will be selected through a two-part process and announced live at the summit.

Eligibility:  

• Must be a high school rising senior (Class of 2027) or a high school graduate (Class of 2026)

• Must be registered to attend the Juneteenth Teen Summit

STEP 1: Scholarship Essay

Essay Prompt 
Juneteenth represents freedom delayed, but also freedom claimed. What does freedom mean to you today, and how will you use your education, skills, or leadership to create opportunity for yourself or others?
Essay Guidelines: 

• 400-500 Typed Words

• Use required form.

Your voice and intention matters more than grammar or “perfect writing”.

STEP 2: Finalist Interviews
Selected finalists will participate in a **short interview** designed to affirm, not intimidate.

Format:  

• 10–15 minutes

• Panel of 5 local and national community leaders

Sample Interview Questions

1. What are you most proud of about yourself that doesn’t show up on a transcript?

2. How do you show leadership in your everyday life?

3. What is one goal you have for the next 2–3 years, and what support would help you reach it?

4. How would receiving this scholarship impact your next steps?

5. What does Juneteenth mean to you personally?

Selection Criteria
Recipients will be selected based on:

• Authentic voice and reflection

• Leadership potential (formal or informal)

• Clarity of goals and commitment to growth

• Interview engagement and self-awareness

• No GPA minimum.

• No comparison to peers.

 

Scholarship Announcement

Winners will be announced at the Juneteenth Teen Summit

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Recipients will receive: 

• Scholarship award  

• Certificate of recognition  

• Sponsor acknowledgement