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2026 Young Heroes
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Jaden Armstrong | Senior | Liberty Magnet High School | Baton Rouge, La.

Jaden Armstrong of Baton Rouge is the oldest of three children and is a natural leader whose interests combine creativity with pragmatism. With plans to study engineering, Jaden is a problem solver with an entrepreneurial streak that has allowed him to pursue thoughtful solutions. These solutions have included developing his own clothing brand called FeelBetter, which incorporates braille and which was Inspired by his visually impaired younger brother. Jaden was among the top 6 finalists at the Young Entrepreneurs Academy national competition for his inventive clothing line. He is a member of the Jack & Jill of America organization, volunteering at community service events. Jaden also participated in the Louisiana Youth Seminar and Xavier’s Magnificent Male Program.

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Marleigh Auzeene  | Sophomore | Early College Academy | Lafayette, La.

Marleigh Auzenne of Lafayette is simultaneously earning her high school diploma and her Associate of Science degree at Southwest Louisiana Community College. Her interest in pharmacy was sparked researching medications to help her nonverbal and autistic brother. He also inspired her to create the Sound Sanctuary Noise-Canceling Headphone Lending Library for people with sensory needs. Marleigh serves as Junior Facilitator for The Confidence Campaign of Acadiana’s Girl Empowerment Workshops. She assists elderly and disabled patrons as a Junior Lifeguard, coordinated the Sea Perch underwater robotics program, served as Camp Counselor for 4-H Horticulture and LOST Camp, trained peers on wildlife etiquette, and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity.

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Andrew Chambers | Junior | Loreauville High | New Iberia, La.

Andrew Chambers of New Iberia was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, but he does not let this stop him from helping others and being a straight A student for twelve consecutive years. Through his involvement in the Teen Court program, he helps at-risk teens. When Andrew learned his Acadian, French, and Spanish ancestors were Revolutionary Patriots, he was inspired to become a re-enactor for the Daughters of the American Revolution America 250 programs sharing the role his ancestors played in the Galvez Expedition. Andrew also challenged himself to play football and was recognized by his coach who chose him to carry the American Flag as the team roared onto the field to start the football season. 

Charlotte Gomes | Senior | Benjamin Franklin High | New Orleans, La.

Charlotte Gomes of New Orleans is always happiest when she is supporting children, whether by volunteering at the UNO Children’s Library, supporting students across the globe, coaching golf lessons, or tutoring. Her efforts have funded tuition, books, a new dorm, and desks for the Petals School of Africa in Kenya. But it is the feminine care supplies that Charlotte has provided that school officials describe as “life changing.” Closer to home, Charlotte participates in The National Leadership Council and is a member of Model United Nations and Louisiana Youth Legislature, where her bill unanimously passed and won the “Best Bill” award. She is also a member of National Honor Society, French Club, and Hands Across the Globe.

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John Parker | Junior | Covington High | Bush, La.

John Wesley “JW” Parker Jr. of Bush faced significant hearing loss as a toddler. After surgery and years of speech therapy, he worked relentlessly to strengthen his communication skills. Today, he confidently leads debates, delivers speeches, and represents youth statewide. JW is co-founder of The Parker Storylight Foundation, a nonprofit he created with his sister to promote literacy. They have collected and distributed more than 800 books to Title I schools, and he distributed over 300 blankets during Christmas. He served on the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council and was elected Parliamentarian. He serves as President of National Honor Society and was chosen as the sole representative from his school to attend American Legion Boys State.

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Maylie Stanley | Senior | Pineville High | Glenmora, La.

Maylie Stanley of Glenmora is dually enrolled in Pineville High School and Northwestern State University. As the Louisiana Teens Speak Up Representative through the Epilepsy Foundation, she shares her journey emphasizing the need for increased research funding, expanded education, and improved access to care for individuals living with epilepsy. Maylie traveled to Washington, D.C., where she met with Congressional offices to advocate for the more than 54,000 individuals living with epilepsy in Louisiana, and has also met with Governor Landry’s office, the Louisiana Department of Education, her parish Superintendent about implementing seizure recognition and First Aid training. Despite navigating a chronic condition, she has not only excelled academically but worked to ensure that those affected by epilepsy feel supported.

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Brooklynn Warner | Junior | Hammond High Magnet | Ponchatoula, La.

Brooklynn Warner of Ponchatoula is an aspiring engineer who has transformed her love for STEM into meaningful service. As the oldest sibling in a home that has welcomed children through foster care, she understands that potential is often a matter of circumstance. As the lead programmer on her FTC and FRC robotics teams, Brooklynn solves complex engineering challenges and was named one of the Top 40 young women in computing nationally by NCWIT. She founded Pink Potion Society to provide STEM experiences for girls. As a Girl Scout, her team won the Bronze Award for “Don’t Pollute the Boot.” Brooklyn also self-published a book that promotes confidence in young girls.