Scholarship Winners:
Briana Agyen (Troy High School) → New York University, Computer Science
Briana is pursuing her passion for technology and human potential through the study of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs), aiming to develop innovations that enhance daily life for individuals living with disabilities.
Ellison Polyné (Hunter College High School) → Northwestern University, Film, Radio, and Television, Ellison is pursuing his passion for storytelling at the intersection of media, business, and sports, blending creativity and impact to shape narratives that inspire and connect diverse audiences.
Sincere Craft (Quad Preparatory School) → Morehouse College, Computer Science
Sincere is pursuing his passion for technology and storytelling through game design, aiming to create immersive and meaningful experiences inspired by his love of anime, art, and family.
Bridgette Jeonarine (Townsend Harris High School) → Georgetown University, Government and Journalism, Bridgette is pursuing her passion for journalism and political communication, inspired by her experience as Editor-in-Chief of The Classic and her work with Press Pass NYC to amplify student voices and advocate for equitable education.
We’re also thrilled to announce our 2025 ALTA Grant Winners—three emerging entrepreneurs embarking on their business journeys. Along with funding, they’ll receive mentorship, financial literacy training, and opportunities to connect with other visionaries as they turn their ideas into reality.
Grant Winners:
Sharjah Selassie Strawn M’Bodji is a homeschooled senior from Harlem, NY, with a passion for law, advocacy, and creative expression. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of UbuntuHarlem Magazine, a youth-led digital platform created by Harlem youth for Harlem youth. Sharjah’s work celebrates the neighborhood’s culture, resilience, and collective power while amplifying stories often left untold.
Giana Kall – Webutuck High school, She founded an essential oil perfume line, Mia in Fiore, driven by her own battles with idiopathic hives which made it difficult for her to find harm-free skin care products. She hopes to support others with similar skin concerns or those just looking for amazing scents without the fakeness.
Shamima Ahmed – Babson College, A Queens native, She is the founder of Endless Beauty, a fashion brand dedicated to creating stylish, inclusive, and confidence-boosting apparel for all body types. Shamima is a second year business student with a passion for fashion and entrepreneurship.
Congratulations to our 2025 ALTA Grant and Scholarship recipients! We’re thrilled to celebrate their achievements and are excited to support their growth and success in the months ahead through mentorship, resources, and opportunities to bring their visions to life.
