STEAM Ahead Emerging Leaders Scholarship 2025
At STEAM Ahead, we believe that investing in young people with big dreams and bold ideas is the surest path to a brighter future. That’s why we’re proud to announce the STEAM Ahead Emerging Leaders Scholarship, an initiative supporting high school students who demonstrate not only a deep passion for STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—but also a strong commitment to leadership and community impact.
This scholarship is more than an award—it’s a commitment to mentorship, connection, and growth. By uplifting students from historically underrepresented communities, we’re equipping tomorrow’s changemakers with the resources and relationships they need to thrive.
Meet our first-ever Emerging Leaders:
Katherine – South End Senior, Future Engineer & Entrepreneur
Katherine – South End Senior, Future Engineer & Entrepreneur
Katherine’s love for STEAM began with curiosity and courage. She recalls being captivated as a tow truck driver used a flatbed equipped with mechanical lifts and controls to rescue her family’s car during a snowstorm. Intrigued by the technology, she watched closely and even got to press the button that lifted the front of the car. “It was very intriguing,” she said. That hands-on moment reinforced her interest in robotics and how machines can help in real-life situations.
STEM hasn’t always come easily—especially math—but Katherine never gave up. “I have not always been good at STEM classes,” she admits, “but I enjoy challenging myself and my skills.” That mindset drives her goal of launching a small business that provides computer networking and engineering services in her community. Her mission: to help ensure everyone has access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Her leadership was recently on display at church when she stepped in to deliver a sermon solo after her co-presenter withdrew last minute. Though nervous, Katherine pushed through. “I was very scared... but my mother was there for support and guidance,” she said. Afterward, many praised her for her courage and message.
A longtime participant in our Summer Learning Academy and STEAM Academy since 2020, Katherine is now preparing for college with plans to pursue engineering and entrepreneurship—fields where she can build solutions and boost confidence for students like herself.
Josiah – Dorchester Senior, Future Kinesiologist & Youth Mentor
Josiah – Dorchester Senior, Future Kinesiologist & Youth Mentor
Josiah’s interest in STEAM began early. As a child, he participated in robotics programs that sparked his curiosity about engineering and how things work. That early exposure laid the foundation for a growing passion that now fuels his plans to study kinesiology—a field where he can combine his love for athletics with scientific inquiry.
“As an athlete,” Josiah explained, “it is a very important topic for me. I hope to learn more about my own body as I continue my athletic career but also help others in their own journeys.” He will be pursuing this path at the University of Virginia, majoring in exercise science.
For Josiah, leadership means integrity and service. “You need to be able to take accountability, be understanding, and be able to learn from others,” he says. He leads quietly but intentionally—whether it’s using a free period to help new 7th graders navigate their first day of school or making himself approachable to younger students who need guidance.
His time as a teaching assistant in the Summer Learning Academy through STEAM Ahead helped him grow even more. “Above all, I was able to develop patience,” he reflects. “I learned to better communicate and be more patient with the kids when directing and guiding them, both in and outside the classroom.”
Josiah has been part of STEAM Academy since 2021 and has interned with the Summer Learning Academy for the past two years. Through these experiences, he has developed not just academic interests but also the personal skills that will shape his future as a compassionate leader in STEAM.
Looking Forward
The Emerging Leaders Scholarship is a celebration of potential. It’s for students like Katherine and Josiah—curious, courageous, and committed to creating change. We’re not only recognizing their achievements—we’re investing in their futures.
To the next generation of STEAM leaders: this is just the beginning.
If you’re a student who dreams big, loves problem-solving, and wants to make a difference, we encourage you to apply for next year’s scholarship. We can’t wait to meet you.
And if you believe in the power of education and want to help us support even more changemakers, please consider donating. Click this link to donate and help us grow the Emerging Leaders Scholarship.