SFTSD has great Lion Pride for our three students who were chosen to be part of the 2024 class of Junior Achievement's 18 Under Eighteen.

Congratulations to seniors Alekhya Buragadda and Prerna Chakkingal and 6th grader Daniella Neve! 

Alekhya has been recognized for her volunteer work, commitment to STEAM, and dedication to destigmatizing mental health among children and teens. She is also a published researcher and author as well as the founder of a nonprofit focused on developing educational opportunities for women globally. 

Prerna's achievements include being an accomplished public speaker on societal issues and giving voice to underrepresented populations. She delivered one of the Top 100 Most Popular Tedx Talks in 2022 and was selected for the prestigious Disney Dreamers Academy.

Daniella's recognition focuses on her use of TikTok as a platform for change. She spreads positivity and encourages organ donation - a quest that began with using the platform to find a kidney donor for her father. She has partnered with UPMC and local media in her work. 

Per the Junior Achievement website, "18 Under Eighteen presented by EQT recognizes and celebrates these young trailblazers by providing nationally recognized leadership training, local media recognition, and real-world opportunities like mentorships, scholarships and internships." 

The search for this year's class of honorees covered Western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia. They will be recognized during a February 6 event at Acrisure Stadium and will be provided with additional educational and leadership opportunities to further their skills and qualifications.