“Global competence is such a valuable skill in today’s world, and I feel that my experiences with JWAC have played an immense role in the opportunities I am able to enjoy today.”
– Mrigayu Ghosh, 20 Under 20 Class of 2021
In 2016, the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth created “20 Under 20” as part of the Global Young Leaders Program. This initiative honors 20 exceptional high school students under the age of 20 who are active in their local Junior World Affairs Council club (JWAC). 20 Under 20 brings a spotlight to young people in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex who consistently give back to their communities and exemplify what it means to be a global citizen.
Based on JWAC educator sponsor nominations and student applications for 20 Under 20, a Council advisory panel will choose the top 20 students to represent the class of 2024. An event will be held in the late spring to recognize the 20 Under 20 class of that year and will feature a prominent keynote speaker. Students will also be recognized for their accomplishments by the Council to the great North Texas community.
Eligibility
There are no strict requirements for eligibility for 20 under 20, but JWAC sponsors should consider nominating students who meet some of these standards:
- Active JWAC member.
- Maintains at least a 3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale.
- Is a leader in the school or community.
- Attended several Council public programs during high school.
- Completed at least 10 hours of community service during the year of application and can provide proof of service.
20 Under 20 – Class of 2025
- Mercy Abba Billy Ryan High School, Denton ISD
- Anusri Chinni Uplift North Hills, Uplift Charter Schools
- Sumaya Gelle Trinity High School, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
- Kundanika Ghosh Uplift North Hills, Uplift Charter Schools
- Aadith Gowda Coppell High School, Coppell ISD
- Lola Kearney Ursuline Academy, Private
- Fariah Khatri Trinity High School, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
- Elin Lloyd Alcuin, Private
- Sweshikha Masina Alcuin School, Private
- Rucha Mehta Trinity High School, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
- Rhea Meka L. D. Bell, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
- Tanisha Mitra Booker T. Washington, Dallas ISD
- Carys O’brien Ursuline Academy of Dallas, Private
- Ayooluwa Joy Okunade International Leadership of Texas, Garland High School, International Leadership of Texas Charter Schools
- Lauren Owen Prosper High School, Prosper ISD
- Pranav Raju Coppell High School, Coppell ISD
- Eduardo Rodriguez Trinity High School, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
- Sharmarr Singleton, Jr. Hillcrest High School, Dallas ISD
- Lauren Stanley Ursuline Academy, Private
- Ayden Yee Trinity High School, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
Previous 20 Under 20 Classes
Watch the video below to see our 20 Under 20 students in action!