Celebrating the Talents of Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School Students
On February 29, 2024, over 30 students from Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School's Aiming High program showcased their artistic skills and compassion by participating in a Pizza and Butterfly Paint contest. Teaming up with Ship Community Outreach and the Attorney General's Office, the students dedicated their creativity to painting butterflies symbolizing victims of hate crimes.
The event not only highlighted the students' artistic talents but also served as a platform to raise awareness about the impact of hate crimes on individuals and communities. Each brushstroke represented a step towards empathy, understanding, and support for victims.
In a ceremony held on April 23, 2024, at the State Archives building, the outstanding efforts of three students stood out. Tonaye, Malik, and Mia were recognized as the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, respectively, during National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Their dedication and creativity shone through, reflecting the resilience, strength, and hope necessary for healing and prevention.
Let's take a closer look at these remarkable students:
1st Place Winner: Tonaye aspires to attend a four-year college to pursue a career as a Cognitive Psychologist. She loves to engage in a variety of activities, including the Aiming High After School Program, Wrestling, Flag Football, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, All-Star Cheerleading, Karate, Boxing, and Track. She loves coloring and painting, which brings her joy outside of academics and sports. Currently, history captivates her interest and curiosity academically. Tonaye sees Aiming High as a way to maintain focus, especially amidst her passion for sports, by emphasizing the importance of academics.
2nd Place Winner: Malik plans to further his education at A&T State University in Greensboro and loves to study African American Studies. He actively participates in the Aiming High After School Program, Karate, Basketball, Top-Teens of America, and serves as an Usher and Audio-Visual member at St. Matthews A.M.E. Church. When he is not at school or participating in extracurricular activities, he loves drawing as his go-to activity for relaxation. Malik says Aiming High has been an academic and social outlet, leading to an increase in his GPA and helping him stay focused on his assignments.
3rd Place Winner: Mia aims to secure a job where she can utilize her skills in movie editing. She is an active member of the Aiming High After School Program. Her love for drawing transcends into her leisure activities. Mia’s favorite subject is biology, where she likes to showcase her interest and work. Mia explains that Aiming High provides her with the time and support to nurture her artistic talents while maintaining her focus on academics.
Congratulations to Tonaye, Malik, Mia, and all the students who participated in the Pizza and Butterfly Paint contest. Your dedication to art, community, and social awareness sets an inspiring example for us all. Keep aiming high!
National Crime Week 2024 Ceremony
