Here's a little about each of this year's recipients:
Musfikur Rahman:
In his application, Musfikur wrote eloquently about his own journey and political development in becoming a socially conscious young person - caring about and advocating for the civil rights of African Americans and other people of color. He also organized and introduced these issues to others in the National Honor Society at school.
Amber Ramos:
Through a family member being diagnosed with a condition, she has been motivated to spread awareness of individuals with special needs and how we can support them. She volunteered her time to provide a safe space for this community. We are so inspired and moved by Amber’s devotion to this effort. Amber has chosen to study occupational therapy at the University of Buffalo.
Kelly Peng Zheng:
In her application Kelly wrote about her leadership as the President of LEO, organizing fundraisers for UNICEF to help children around the globe who are in need - especially those affected by health disparities due to the COVID pandemic. She would like to see change in the healthcare industry, making it more accessible to people globally. She also made recycled paper artwork -helping to promote environmentalism. She showed her work at MoMA.
Weitang Tan:
We are so impressed with her commitment and dedication to serving the community. As a member of the Leo club, Weitang worked as a Chinese-English translator at Parent Teacher Conferences and prepared and distributed lunches for the homeless. She has also contributed her time to Chimerica Women by donating food and COVID PPE. Weitang has also volunteered on a political campaign and performed community outreach. Weitang plans on studying electrical and computer engineering at the University of Rochester.
Congratulations to Qilin Zhang - the 2024 recipient of the Virginia Yu Fund for Social & Economic Justice Scholarship this year
Nelson Mar, chair of the Fund with Qilin Zhang, the 2024 recipient of the Virginia Yu Fund for Social & Economic Justice Scholarship