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AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

In this season of Thanksgiving, we asked our newest Barron Prize winners what they’re feeling grateful for these days. They replied with beautiful, thankful thoughts about their family, friends, teachers, and communities. They also expressed deep gratitude for being able to use their passions to make a meaningful difference.

We are so very thankful for all our young heroes, the inspiring ideals they live by, and the good they’re doing in the world. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Arya Gurumukhi, age 15

Bionic Leaf

As 2024 ends I have so much to be grateful for! First and foremost, my entire family is healthy, happy, and pursuing their passions. I’m thankful for the amazing trips I was able to take with friends and family, and I’m incredibly honored to have received the Barron Prize, which will not only elevate my research but also help expand my impact. I’m also proud of learning ten new lemon-inspired recipes this year—with no major kitchen disasters! Lastly, I’m deeply appreciative of everyone who believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my goals wholeheartedly.

Elizabeth Djajalie, age 18

protecting Alaska’s ecosystems
  • I’m grateful for the endless support of my family and friends, especially my parents who have supported me through a lifetime of endeavors and adventures. 
  • I’m grateful for friends old and new: those who have been there since day one of elementary school to the ones I’ve just met in college these past few months. 
  • I’m grateful for being here at the college of my dreams that continuously challenges me to be a better scholar, person, friend, and changemaker. 
  • And of course, I’m grateful for the Barron Prize for supporting my studies and helping make every day here possible. 

Alexis Nicholson, age 10

Kids for Urban Trees

I’m grateful for my family because they are always there for me when I need them. I’m thankful for my friends because they support me in my work and they help me when I’m stuck. I love trees because they help provide shade on a sunny day where I can rest and refocus. Finally, I’m thankful for my teacher because she helps me learn and pushes me to be my best.

Nirbhuy Arun, age 9

Kids for Urban Trees

Change, while a vague word, has a significant impact. We’ve learned that change is only possible with multiple forces involved. Kids for Urban Trees is grateful for dedicated volunteers seeking positive community impact who have helped us thrive in a greener life. This not only provides a greener life for residents but also nurtures community stewards. Special thanks to Gloria Barron of the Barron Prize for inspiring change, Ginger Wireman for mentoring us, and the Mid-Columbia Community Forestry Council for their support. Tree experts, the Benton Franklin Health District, local schools, 811, Basin Bloomers, Emily Rose Castillo, Kyle Celemens, and our extended family have all contributed greatly to our green initiatives.

Artash Nath, age 18

MonitorMyOcean.com

This year, starting university has brought new experiences and opportunities I’m deeply grateful for. The warm welcome from friends, mentors, and the community has made the move from Toronto to Northern California both exciting and inspiring. I look forward to meeting more people and continuing my work toward the betterment of society.

Genshu Price, age 16

Bottles4College

I am grateful for my Ohana, community, and aina. It fuels me to continue working to protect these things through Bottles4College every day. Growing and furthering the aloha spirit has been passed to me from my family and environment so I hope I can do the same to those around me.

Clelia Poujade, age 17

Hands Together to Feed Chicago

These days, I have so many things to be grateful for. College has been a big change. Living away from my family, meeting new people, delving into higher-level classes, and my first time living on the East Coast! 

I’m grateful for the incredible friends I’ve made, people who make me feel a bit more at home here. I’m grateful for the clubs I’ve had the opportunity to get involved with, places where I can pursue existing passions such as cooking and baking while also exploring new ones. I’m grateful for my family’s support and FaceTime calls with my little brother which make this transition just a little bit easier. Lastly, I’m grateful that I’m able to receive an education like this one and advance my life through it.

Charlotte Rosario, age 17

Community Photobooth

I’m grateful these days for:

  • The Community Photobooth team and their success in organizing our 2024 fundraiser to support low-income students at Peninsula Bridge 
  • Meeting new families around my community during holiday card photo season
  • Spending Friday evenings “sunset-chasing” with friends
  • “Dinner dates” with my mom before I leave for college next year
  • Waking up to my two dogs, Kipper and Kola, jumping on my bed
  • Pumpkin-spice-ifying everything!

Ekansh Mittal, age 17

improving outcomes for cancer patients

A lot has passed since Thanksgiving last year and this year has been blessed. I am thankful for being selected for my dream school, and to now be studying with some of the most accomplished and knowledgeable professors in the world along with the most incredible and fun peer group of friends. During this Thanksgiving season, I am grateful for my mentors, who made it possible for me to do my research over the last two years. I am also incredibly thankful for my family, who have supported me in all my endeavors. Finally, I am most thankful for the Barron Prize for supporting my further education and for all the encouragement and guidance they are providing in continuing my work.