31 Local Girl Scouts Earn Prestigious Gold Award for Impactful Community Projects
(PHOENIX – April 7, 2025) – Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC) is honoring 31 local Girl Scouts with the Gold Award this year, the most prestigious honor in Girl Scouting. The Gold Award recognizes Girl Scouts in grades 9 to 12 and their service projects to address important issues in their community and develop sustainable solutions.
“Gold Award Girl Scouts identify everyday issues around them or draw inspiration from personal experiences to create meaningful change as project leaders,” says Mary Mitchell, co-CEO of GSACPC. “We are proud to provide a platform for them to launch their own vision of community service.”
The 2025 Gold Award recipients have shown initiative and demonstrated leadership through their projects to tackle mental health stigmas, honor veterans, advocate for the environment, promote animal welfare, advance STEM education, and more.
“The Gold Award represents young women who are actively shaping our communities for the better,” says Christina Spicer, co-CEO of GSACPC. “Their world-changing projects reflect the critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, team management, goal setting, budgeting, and other diverse skills they have developed by participating in Girl Scouts.”
Spicer also notes that the Gold Award distinction on a high school resume helps young women stand out in college admissions, internships, job interviews, scholarship applications, and more, as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives.
The 2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts and their impactful projects are:
Aarohi Ghorpade, Phoenix
C Change
Contributing to environmental and climate change advocacy, Aarohi developed a carbon footprint calculator to make users aware of their impact, influencing personal decisions that affect the environment. As climate change remains a significant global issue, Aarohi organized workshops for her fellow Girl Scouts to raise awareness about its impact, fulfilling all the requirements to earn the Climate Change Challenge patch. Exceeding her goal of engaging 50 Girl Scouts on how to use the calculator, those who participated in her workshop demonstrated a greater understanding of the severity of climate change and the importance behind making decisions that reduce carbon emissions. Driven by a passion for developing sustainable processes and reducing waste, Aarohi is pursuing a mechanical engineering degree and is inspired to pursue a minor in sustainability after earning her Gold Award.
Anna Moraca, Scottsdale
Sensory Boards
Having a personal understanding of sensory issues, Anna was motivated to create sensory boards for students at Chaparral High School. She collaborated with friends and family to design and donate the boards to the Learning Resource Center, providing students with a safe space and sensory outlets. The boards featured a variety of touch elements for different types of stimulation. To further spread awareness, she created a video and webpage that explained how to build sensory boards and the positive impact they have on students. Anna has been a Girl Scout for 13 years, where she has developed leadership and social skills by leading badge activities both at encampments and within her own troop. Anna is studying chemistry at Northern Arizona University, continuing to pursue her passion for science while making a positive impact in her community.
Arabella Bergen, New River
New River Neighborhood Improvement
When Arabella’s grandfather suffered a stroke while she was home alone with him, first responders drove past her family’s house without stopping. With only her First Aid and CPR certification, she ultimately saved his life. This experience made her realize the importance of helping others during emergencies. Motivated by this, she developed her Gold Award project, the New River Neighborhood Improvement Project, to help first responders reach critical locations more quickly. Arabella created a mapping system to document streets, fences, and nearby properties by photographing homes and their numbers. This data was then uploaded to the first responder system used by Daisy Mountain Fire Department, Phoenix Police Department, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, and other agencies. Arabella is currently pursuing a degree in medicine at the University of Arizona.
Arionna Smith, Phoenix
Robots Build Kids
Arionna Smith earned her Gold Award for her project, Robots Build Kids, which focused on making STEM education more accessible to underrepresented youth. Inspired by her love for robotics and her work at the Arizona Science Center leading STEM camps, Arionna created a FIRST Lego League robotics team at Roger’s Ranch Elementary School. Through her leadership, she guided the team through its first year, and it now competes in its own robotics competition, continuing the legacy she built. Arionna’s project not only provided hands-on learning experiences in robotics but also helped foster an environment where students could explore STEM education beyond the classroom. Throughout this journey, Arionna developed valuable skills in leadership, teaching, and time management while balancing her senior-year internships, club leadership, and college applications. A Girl Scout for nine years, Arionna is currently pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles, and plans to become a robotics engineer.
Ava Sharett, Phoenix
Alleviating Period Poverty
Over 300,000 girls and young women in Arizona experience period poverty, a challenge that disproportionately affects low-income communities of color. For Ava, this issue was crucial to address because it highlights a woman’s health problem that is too often overlooked and can severely impact the lives of women. Many are forced to choose between buying menstruation products—a basic hygienic necessity—and purchasing food. Ava worked to dismantle the shame and stigma surrounding period poverty by organizing donation drives, leading presentations to raise awareness and normalize the conversation, and testifying before the Arizona State Senate to urge lawmakers to take action and provide solutions for this issue affecting girls and women. A Girl Scout of nine years, Ava finds inspiration and strength in the friendships she’s formed as part of the organization. Embodying the Girl Scout spirit, Ava has empowered others to project their voice, share their stories and advocate for causes they care for resolving. Ava attends Spellman College and is majoring in health sciences with a minor in creative writing.
Bayli Haynes, Peoria
Coyote Relief Space
Bayli Haynes earned a Gold Award for the creation of the Coyote Relief Space, a mental health resource aimed at supporting her high school peers. After seeing many of her friends struggle with mental health challenges, Bayli identified the need for a designated area where students could seek comfort and support. The Coyote Relief Space, located in the counseling office at Centennial High School, offers a quiet retreat for students, complete with coping tools, fidget toys, and access to a social worker. Additionally, Bayli provided teachers and staff with information to direct students to the space when necessary. Her project had a significant impact, with students utilizing the space and providing positive feedback through QR code questionnaires. Throughout her Gold Award journey, Bayli learned about the importance of providing peers with the proper tools and resources to help them overcome mental health struggles. A dedicated Girl Scout for 13 years, Bayli plans to attend Pima Medical Institute after high school to become a sterile processing technician.
Breanna Barnes, Phoenix
Overcoming Mental Health Challenges
Breanna Barnes created Overcoming Mental Health Challenges to raise awareness among teenagers about mental health issues such as depression, stress, and anxiety, with the goal of reducing stigma and misconceptions surrounding them. This Gold Award project was motivated by Breanna’s loss of a peer to suicide and her own mental health challenges that she overcame, which inspired her to take action and help other teens learn the prevention strategies and coping skills they need to address mental health issues. Breanna created a slide presentation, designed a flyer about the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988), and facilitated workshops where participants learned techniques and shared personal experiences. Breanna’s efforts made a lasting impact on her community, as her workshops and video presentation reached peers at Desert Vista High School, her church, and the University of Arizona, fostering open conversations about mental health. Feedback showed a significant increase in understanding and comfort with the topic. Breanna, who has been a Girl Scout for 13 years, is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management at the University of Arizona and remains passionate about supporting mental health initiatives.
Brooke Gooding, Peoria
Literacy Libraries
Brooke Gooding earned her Gold Award for her Literacy Libraries project. Inspired by her parents, both educators, Brooke wanted to address the lack of educational resources in lower socio-economic communities. This involved creating six mini libraries placed in accessible public locations, including a laundromat, two restaurants, a homeless housing facility, a park, and a children’s home. These libraries provide free books to individuals of all ages, giving them the opportunity to enhance their education and better themselves academically. Brooke’s project had a lasting impact, with the libraries remaining self-sustaining thanks to community involvement through comment notebooks. Despite facing challenges like vandalism, Brooke demonstrated resilience and leadership throughout the process. Brooke has been a dedicated Girl Scout for 11 years. After graduating from Liberty High School in Peoria, Brooke plans to attend Northern Arizona University to study mathematics and minor in business. She looks forward to continuing her efforts to make a positive impact on her community.
Catherine Young, Chandler
Preserving History: Hashknife Pony Express and the U.S. Flag
Upon completing an internship in Washington D.C. for United States Congressman Andy Biggs, Catherine was empowered to pursue a Gold Award project highlighting her experience and pride in the country. Engaging over 2,000 people across the state of Arizona, she brought awareness to the history and significance of the Hashknife Pony Express, an annual event where riders set on a trail to deliver the United States mail in Holbrook, Arizona. Through a presentation, Catherine was able to connect with fellow community members and discuss the legacy of the Pony Express and its modern-day reenactment. She also taught Girl Scout Brownies about flag etiquette and invited them to join her at the annual parade organized by Hashknife Pony Express. After graduating high school, Catherine plans to study business and politics.
Claire Ellish, Phoenix
Legacy of WWII Valor: Keeping History Alive and Inspiring Civic Pride Across Generations
Impacted by her great-grandfather’s moving personal stories from serving in World War II, Claire embarked on her Gold Award project to preserve his account of service during the Battle of Luzon. Claire interviewed, recorded, and subtitled the vivid stories of Herman Lange, a member of the calvary during the war, and submitted it to both the WWII Museum in New Orleans and the Library of Congress, where it is now archived. Claire also sought to pass these stories of resilience on to younger generations by leading a Brownie troop through an educational experience, teaching them about the USS Arizona and its role in Pearl Harbor, and guiding them in earning their Celebrating Community badge. A Girl Scout for 13 years, Claire will continue her journey at the Naval Academy, where she plans to pursue a degree in leadership with an emphasis in chemistry. She hopes to continue honoring her family’s legacy of service and inspiring others along the way.
Corinne Koelsch, Scottsdale
Bringing Broadcastings
Film, art and journalism played a significant role in shaping Corinne’s childhood, but when she transferred schools in the fifth grade, she learned not everyone had access to video journalism programs – igniting the beginnings of her Gold Award project. To create an integrated classroom program, Corinne developed lesson plans in collaboration with educators and school administrators to ensure students in K-12 could learn about journalism and media production. Corinne delivered an elementary school curriculum adaptable to the content taught in the classroom. Eager to engage more with students, she took the initiative to volunteer at her high school’s video and television lab, where she mentored students who were interested in learning about video production. Through her project, Corinne discovered her passion for youth development and for instilling in students, skills they can continue to build upon throughout their lives. Corinne now attends the Honors College at the University of Arizona.
Diana Jackson, San Tan Valley
Think Safety
To help children and adults with special needs stay safe, Diana dedicated her Gold Award project to provide extra support to occupational therapists and patients. She created a wooden gameboard and trivia questions to educate people on what to do if someone is hurt or when it’s safe to share an address with someone and other scenario-based questions. After giving it to occupational therapists, Diana learned that those who played the game had a positive learning experience, especially since there are few games focused on safety for children and adults with special needs. As someone with autism, Diana is excited to share her project with friends and others who will benefit from it. After 10 years as a Girl Scout, she advises future Gold Award recipients to choose a meaningful project and produce something extraordinary.
Ella Killebrew, New River
Caring Through Color
Ella’s passion for self-expression through watercolor painting, costume sewing, and creative projects inspired her to share her love for art and its therapeutic power with others. Building on her Bronze Award project, she sought to support hospitalized children by providing them with art materials.
Partnering with The Crayon Initiative and reaching out to the Child-Life Specialist departments at a local Arizona hospital, Ella worked to understand the specific resources needed. What started as a simple idea to host a crayon drive grew into a collaborative effort, with multiple Girl Scout troops coming together to collect supplies, write letters, and educate youth on the importance of recycling and community involvement. In its first year, Caring Through Color donated 25 lbs. of art supplies to Scottsdale Shea Medical Center and recycled 104 lbs. of used crayons. With a deep commitment to service, Ella will soon be attending the United States Air Force Academy and plans to complete an 18month mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Emily Morrow, Scottsdale
Girl Scouts in STEM
Sparking interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, Emily hosted workshops to engage Girl Scouts in robotics. Through hands-on experiences at day camps, Emily taught a class of 115 Girl Scouts about robotics, introducing girls to new career pathways and passions. Her Gold Award project inspired curiosity and creativity for innovation and helped Girl Scouts envision themselves in professional roles typically held by males. Emily was particularly impressed by seeing girls step into leadership roles after learning the basics of robotics, which served as a clear testament to the impact of her project. Continuing her passion for science and technology, Emily plans to pursue a career in biomedical engineering.
Grazia Caramucci, Fountain Hills
Step Into the Outdoors
After 12 years as a Girl Scout, Grazia’s love for camping inspired Step Into the Outdoors, a Gold Award project encouraging girls to experience outdoor recreation activities. To help build their confidence Grazia organized neighborhood hikes where she offered badge workshops to get more Girl Scouts comfortable stepping into the outdoors alongside their parents and/or guardians. Grazia then proceeded to build upon foundational outdoor skills hosting programs at Camp Maripai and Parsons Leadership Center. Grazia’s Gold Award project continues through a Service Unit committee dedicated to maintaining outdoor engagement for all girls. Grazia currently attends Northern Arizona University and is studying Biomedical Sciences.
Haley Helman, Surprise
Dog Agility Equipment
In search of creative methods to enhance her pets’ obedience training, Haley focused her Gold Award project on designing dog agility equipment. After one of her dogs was injured on the street, she enrolled her in agility courses to provide a safe environment for her to burn off energy and develop problem-solving skills on the course. As an owner of high-energy breeds, Haley shared her insights with other dog owners looking to manage their dogs’ energy while fostering a stronger, more connected relationship with them. With 12 years of experience as a Girl Scout, Haley has developed into a confident leader, eager to make a positive impact in her community and offer creative solutions to local challenges. She is currently attending Valparaiso University, where she is pursuing a degree in bioengineering.
Katya Sasha Rubin, Phoenix
Adaptive Figure Skating
While reflecting on how to make ice skating a more inclusive sport and witnessing the limited opportunities available to her brother with autism, Katya created Ice SkateAble, a sensory-friendly program welcoming all children to the skating rink regardless of disabilities. Before the event took place, Katya led an hour-long training with volunteers to explain how to support children with different needs through scenario-based learning. Through her project, she was able to accommodate children in wheelchairs, children who were visually or hearing impaired, and those who had difficulties communicating. Beyond her Gold Award project, Katya continues to share her passion for ice skating as a coach. Adding to her list of accomplishments, one of her students began competing in skating competitions with Katya’s help, despite a lack of adaptive elements in most Arizona-based events. Featured in multiple media outlets including the U.S. Figure Skating Magazine, Katya’s project shines light on the importance of adaptive and inclusive sports.
Kelly Mitchell, Phoenix
Protecting Our Environment
Kelly Mitchell’s lifelong passion for environmental advocacy powered her Gold Award project, Protecting Our Environment. After noticing that there was no recycling in classrooms at Arcadia High School as a freshman, Kelly took the lead to start the AHS Environmental Club. As the founder and president of the AHS Environmental Club, Kelly implemented a school-wide recycling program, worked to educate her peers about the importance of sustainability, and fundraised for eco-friendly options at school. Through her project, Kelly engaged students and the local community by creating educational materials, hosting events for younger Girl Scouts, and using social media to share eco-friendly tips. The club retains consistent attendance and has raised over $1,000 to fund recycling bins and tree planting projects at school. Kelly’s project will continue to inspire future environmental leaders with the club and recycling program both continuing after her graduation. A 12-year Girl Scout, Kelly plans to go to college to pursue a double-major in songwriting and biology while continuing her passion for music and environmental stewardship.
Klarissa Stiff, Phoenix
Library Redesign
Seeking an opportunity to support the arts program at her high school, Klarissa worked with a team to redesign her school’s choir uniform and music library. Her team catalogued over 200 dresses and installed new inventory numbers and size labels. They also rebuilt the music library by establishing the foundation of a database that details how to set up the new system and how to sustain it for future generations of students. Through collaboration with student clubs on campus, Klarissa created a functional and curated system that will support the sustainability of the arts program. Throughout her 12 years of Girl Scouting, Klarissa has gained communication, project management and adaptability skills that she will continue to expand as she transitions to her next journey. She plans to study biochemistry at the University of Arizona.
Lily Sheehan, Gilbert
A Sister to Every Girl Scout
Lily Sheehan’s Gold Award project, A Sister to Every Girl Scout, was born out of her own struggles with bullying and a desire to make a change for others. Having personally experienced the hurt of being bullied and hearing stories of fellow Girl Scouts who left the organization because of it, Lily addressed this issue head-on. She developed an online resource designed to empower young girls by promoting kindness and offering practical advice on handling bullying and mental health challenges. Her website quickly became a valuable tool for Girl Scouts, with feedback from users inspiring her to add more engaging elements like games and interactive content. Lily has been a Girl Scout for 11 years and was inspired to pursue marketing due to her involvement in Girl Scout cookie sales and strategies. She is currently studying marketing at Arizona State University and hopes to one day work with the Walt Disney Company or the NFL.
Madeline Wilson, Gilbert
Sharing the Love
After learning about the comfort that dolls bring to memory care patients, Madeline was determined to make a kind and thoughtful gesture that brought joy to the elderly community. She delivered comfort dolls to a local memory care facility and presented a slideshow featuring images of key landscapes and landmarks, sparking memories and conversations between patients, caregivers, and family members. Upon finishing her Gold Award project, Madeline received an outpouring of positive feedback. Several staff members noted that patients appeared more engaged and relaxed, with some even sharing fond memories of the places featured in the slideshow. This project highlights Madeline’s 12 years of Girl Scouting, which have played a key role in its success, allowing her to give back to her community and help them reconnect with or rediscover cherished memories.
Madilyn Messenger, Phoenix
Western Burrowing Owls
In collaboration with Wild at Heart Burrowing Owl Habitat, Madilyn began brainstorming innovative ideas to help burrowing owls who are being threatened due to habitat loss. Madilyn traveled to Gila Bend and Salome, Arizona during the months of September and October to construct more than 50 burrows for owls that had been displaced by construction. There, she learned more about some of the materials needed to build a burrow: barrels, tubbing, and chicken wire. Since burrowing owls cannot create their own shelters, Madilyn’s thoughtful project played a key role in supporting the health and survival of this remarkable species, shielding them from predators and the threat of extinction. By the end of her project, she had helped release 150 owls back into the wild. As she continues to build meaningful connections and expand her academic journey, Madilyn plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Business, Hotel, and Restaurant Management.
Michaela Paltzik, Scottsdale
Helping Paws
Michaela Paltzik’s love for animals, education, and community service inspired her Gold Award project, Helping Paws. What began as a personal goal to train her own dog as a therapy animal quickly grew into a larger mission as Michaela discovered her passion for dog training and wanted to help others experience the benefits of therapy dogs and learn how to train their own. Michaela used her experience training her dog, Fifi, and volunteer work across Phoenix with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, to develop a comprehensive training manual and lesson plan to guide others in certifying their pets as therapy animals. Michaela distributed her manual and created a Therapy Dog Patch program, educating over 100 Girl Scouts on the role of therapy dogs and their impact. Helping Paws extended throughout Phoenix to bring comfort and long-lasting awareness of therapy dogs to the community. An 11-year Girl Scout, Michaela is now preparing to attend Texas A&M University, where she will major in Animal Science with plans to become a veterinarian.
M’tima Hamilton, Mesa
Designing a CrossBody Bag for Mastectomy Patients
M’tima Hamilton created her Gold Award project to support mastectomy patients in finding a comfortable, functional bag. Inspired by her mother’s experience with breast cancer, M’tima recognized the challenges many mastectomy patients face when searching for a bag that fits comfortably over their chest post-surgery and how this affects their confidence. Her project began with in-depth research, including surveys with mastectomy patients on their experience with bags and the importance of healthcare advocacy for women. Working alongside the founder of Fabric Incubator, M’tima gained hands-on experience in design and developed a specialized crossbody bag pattern. She compiled her research into an educational website and video to raise awareness. To further share her message, M’tima partnered with Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation to distribute postcards and other educational resources in Hope Boxes, which provide essential items to women undergoing breast cancer treatment. A Girl Scout for 13 years, M’tima plans to study Media Arts and Sciences with a concentration in Design and would like to become a UX/UI designer.
Naeha Ravikumar, Chandler
Back to Nature
A love for wildlife and the outdoors empowered Naeha’s mission to support Liberty Wildlife’s outreach programs. After learning about the organization when she came across an injured bird, Naeha dedicated her project to the livelihood of all species especially those under the care of Liberty Wildlife. To reduce the number of endangered species and those at risk of becoming endangered, she took action to raise public awareness about the urgency of the issue, collaborating with staff. She also constructed four benches for outdoor use during programs and filmed a video showcasing some of the animals at Liberty Wildlife. While working on her Gold Award project, Naeha learned how to organize and manage high priority tasks all while being a student and part time employee. Her commitment to raising awareness about wildlife conservation, along with her 10-year journey as a Girl Scout, has taught her that no change is too small to make a difference and improve the communities around us.
Rayne Thompson, Phoenix
Thriving Minds: Innovative Approaches to Neurodivergent Care
Rayne Thompson’s Gold Award project, Thriving Minds: Innovative Approaches to Neurodivergent Care, stemmed from her preschool experiences at the Southwest Autism and Resource Center, where she developed a deep sense of empathy for those who experience the world differently. To drive her impactful mission, Rayne secured a $500 micro-grant and more than $2,000 in book donations from the Arizona Center for African American Resources (AZCAAR) to create educational box kits filled with sensory tools and informational brochures. These kits providing essential coping resources for neurodivergent youth were then distributed to children within the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Phoenix Chapter. Her project increased awareness of neurodivergence and provided vital support for children ages 2–19. To continue her project, Rayne created a sustainability training handbook to help program directors manage the box kits and documents moving forward. Rayne has been in Girl Scouts for 10 years and is a student at Academies at South Mountain. She plans to attend college and become an adolescent psychiatrist.
Samantha Shockness, Phoenix
Mindfulness Where it Matters
Samantha Shockness earned her Gold Award by channeling her passion for mental health and mindfulness to empower girls through her project, Mindfulness Where It Matters. Recognizing the pressures young girls face, including academic stress, social expectations, and technology overload, Samantha designed and led interactive workshops to equip Girl Scouts with essential tools for managing stress and building resilience. Through activities like guided meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and journaling, Samantha created a supportive space where participants could explore mindfulness techniques to improve their well-being. She also led group discussions where girls of all ages could share their feelings and learn lessons on self-care and positive habits. Her project impacted over 20 Girl Scouts in Scottsdale, with pre- and post-assessments showing significant improvements in emotional awareness, stress management, and self-esteem. Samantha also developed badge and meeting plans for troop leaders to continue the program in the community. Samantha has been a Girl Scout for 13 years and is a student at Desert Mountain High School. She plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy and study political science in preparation for a career as a pilot.
Sarah Bendok, Phoenix
Agrivoltaics Project at Spaces of Opportunity
Inspired by her volunteer work at Tiger Mountain Foundation where she learned about sustainable agriculture, Sarah dedicated her Gold Award project to reduce carbon emissions through agrivoltaics, co-locating solar panels above crops. Complementing the hydro panels installed by a fellow Gold Awardee, Sarah’s project increased crop yields, reduced carbon emissions by 10,000 pounds, saved 55 trees and improved farmers’ health and livelihood by providing shade and lower electricity costs. Magnifying her environmental impact, Sarah also held educational agrivoltaics workshops for students, volunteers, teachers and community members who were eager to learn about the potential of agrivoltaics and its role in shaping a more sustainable future. As populations continue to increase, Sarah’s initiative will play a crucial role in developing sustainable methods for growing food.
Sarah Witte, Phoenix
STEAM Kits
Combining her love for art and science, Sarah created STEAM kits to champion curiosity and creativity at the St. Vincent de Paul’s Dream Center, serving low income and unhoused youth. As a Girl Scout, Sarah had the chance to participate in STEAM programming and used her project to advocate for inclusivity in Girl Scouting, motivating her to extend these same opportunities to others who lacked access to similar programs. As a girl delegate, Sarah’s leadership and advocacy have played a crucial role in ensuring children have access to valuable programs that not only introduce them to various careers but also inspire them to take action toward improving their future. Sarah created 35 STEAM kits containing materials and instructions so children can become inspired and empowered to pursue innovative, problem-solving and artistic careers. As Sarah shifts her focus to addressing food insecurity, she is pursuing a degree in industrial engineering with a minor in food studies at the University of Arizona.
Sophia Crisalli, Paradise Valley
Pobody’s Nerfect: A Self-Guided Journal for Young Girls
Upon encountering social media content that impacted her confidence and self-image, Sophia used her journal as a comforting and coping tool to navigate and understand her emotions. Filling pages with moments of happiness, sadness, frustration and other feelings, journaling proved to be an effective and creative outlet for stress and anxiety relief – something she was eager to share with younger girls through her Gold Award project. Sophia launched Pobody’s Nerfect a self-guided journal with prompts and activities to improve confidence in young girls between the age groups of 9-13 years old. With six chapters and 70 pages of creative writing prompts, coloring pages and personality quizzes, the journal’s objective was to help girls discover what makes them unique, but also how to manage different life scenarios and friendships. After completing the project at a camp, girls felt more confident in explaining what boundaries are and understanding the importance of respecting them, and at the same time, understood the qualities to look for in a good friend. With a continued focus on impacting children’s lives, Sophia is now studying at the University of San Diego to become an elementary school teacher.
Tatiyana Mack, Phoenix
Grow, Grow, Grow
Tatiyana Mack earned her Gold Award through her project Grow, Grow, Grow, which focused on the importance of native trees and their impact on both the environment and mental health. Empowered by the Earth’s healing during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tatiyana aimed to inspire others to continue contributing to the environment while resuming everyday life. Her project involved planting two Desert Willow Trees at Tanner Chapel AME Church in Phoenix and renovating a room used for religious and therapy sessions. She also educated troop members and local children at elementary schools about the value of growing native trees and how the environment can influence personal wellbeing. Through Grow, Grow, Grow, Tatiyana enhanced the community by providing a space for growth and an uplifting sight while improving the environment. A Girl Scout of 13 years, Tatiyana attends Betty H. Fairfax High School and looks to pursue Business Management with a concentration in International Business at Louisiana State University.
About Girl Scouts—Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC)
In partnership with 6,500 adult volunteers, GSACPC serves over 12,000 girls grades K-12 in more than 90 communities across central and northern Arizona. Since 1936, GSACPC has helped girls develop leadership skills and tools for success in a rapidly changing environment. We know that given the opportunity, every girl can become a leader, act confidently on her values, and connect with her community. For more information, visit www.girlscoutsaz.org.
