Anisa is a Senior majoring in Pre-Medical Psychology. She is extraordinarily focused and driven by the pursuit of her passion to assist those impacted by trauma and by illness.  She is studying to be a Psychiatric Neurologist and is working awfully hard to make this dream a reality. Her experience as a volunteer tutor of orphaned girls in Zambia – most had suffered economic, educational and/or health challenges - inspired her by seeing firsthand how the girls embraced the pure joy of living and learning despite their harrowing circumstances.

Elijah is a rising Junior with a Biology Major and Music Minor. Elijah grew up in what he characterizes as a dysfunctional environment in which family and those within his neighborhood allowed their circumstances to define them and to effectively acquiesce to the proverbial hand that they had been dealt.  In his own words, “No one deserves their dreams and visions to be suppressed. Relocating has been the healthiest decision that I have made in years. Shockingly, my family’s indifference fueled my passion to help people mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.”

Gabrielle is a Junior, Hospitality Major.  After graduating from Friendly High School, Gabrielle enrolled in VA State Univ.'s Hospitality program to pursue her dream of owning and operating a soul food steakhouse.  During the pandemic, she volunteered at the Capital Area Food Bank, which provided her invaluable experience while serving the community.  Gabrielle is a member of several organizations, including the Eta Delta Sigma Honor Society, the Culinary Club, and the National Assn. of Minorities in Hospitality and she mentors young girls.

Jamia is a student who academically excels  and is actively engaged in her community. She is interested in pursuing a career as a veterinarian for exotic pets and has worked to prepare for the rigors of veterinarian school. Jamia is a member of several organizations and also spends time serving the community. Jamia is an exemplary student who represents the well-rounded scholar which the Metropolitan DC Chapter of the Links, Incorporated seeks for this award.

Lakiyah is a first-generation college student and outstanding scholar who wants to become a veterinarian. She is the recipient of numerous scholarships. She is a member of the Student Government Association Events Committee, the Tuskegee University Students in Animal Care and Rescue and the National Association of Black Veterinarians. In her community she gives back by volunteering at an animal shelter and teaching young students about becoming a veterinarian. She believes strongly in making a difference because of the challenges she encountered growing up, “I had to teach myself things pertaining to my dream career because there weren’t opportunities in my community that could.”

 Carmen has an interest in becoming a nurse advocating for social justice and racial equity.  She is a decorated Girl Scout; a college ambassador, an officer in the Black Student Union and a delegate for the Student Nurses Association.  She is a volunteer who takes experiences in the arts to young people living in public housing in DC.  She is an engaged leader in her church and truly exemplifies a student representing the ideals of The Links Incorporated.

Meron is dedicated to her studies, community and civic engagement. She is an excellent leader among her classmates, and has strong competencies in global understanding, critical and reflective thinking and analysis. Meron’s future goals include working with an anti-human trafficking organization as well as organizations that help immigrants and others. Meron believes very strongly in giving back to her community. “My goals in life are to do as much good as possible in this world and to help as many people as possible. I do not have any kind of savior complex but I have had many people in my life who have helped me get to this point in life and be a successful adult so I would also love to have the opportunity to do the same for others.”

Miguel is a Senior Political Science Major.  He describes himself as an artist, athlete, and activist, which reflects in his painting minor. He is a member of Howard’s swim team and he has a career goal to work in civil rights. He desires to represent those wrongly accused and to be a positive role model for youth.  He is a graduate of St. John's College High School.

Richard is a Senior, Political Science Major.  He has served as an officer in several student organizations, including Vice President of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity and a member of the Golden Key Honor Society International, among others honor societies. Richard seeks to demonstrate leadership by example.  His efforts on campus earned him a Leadership Excellence Award. Richard graduated from the IDEA Public Charter School and aspires to become a civil rights attorney. 

Tahlia will graduate from Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) in May 2021. Talia’s desire to lead and serve started at an early age. As a teenager, she was a member of and later an advisor for the highly successful ”DC Mayor Marion Barry Youth Leadership Program.” At PGCC, she demonstrates exceptional leadership skills and academic excellence. She also had an opportunity to volunteer at schools in Cape Town and Johannesburg South Africa.