Stories worth telling.

Charles Edwards is a dedicated Elevate Birmingham student and leader at Wenonah High School who has excelled academically while preparing for his future career goals. Maintaining a 3.9 GPA, Charles has challenged himself through dual enrollment coursework in Psychology and Theatre, completion of two STEM Enrichment Institutes, and earning an Alabama Community College System credential in Food and Beverage.

Through Elevate Birmingham, Charles has continued developing leadership, discipline, and career readiness skills both inside and outside of the classroom. He currently serves as the 12th grade representative for FCCLA and is a proud member of the National Honor Society.

His hard work and commitment to excellence have resulted in more than $100,000 in scholarship offers to support his college education. Following graduation, Charles plans to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to pursue a degree in civil engineering with the goal of creating projects that positively impact communities for generations to come.

A proud alumna of Elevate Birmingham and Salutatorian of Wenonah High School, Angel Purdie has earned more than $2.4 million in scholarship awards, an accomplishment that reflects academic excellence, determination, discipline, and vision for her future.

Angel will attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham as an incoming freshman in the Honors College, where she will major in Human Resource Management.

Through Elevate Birmingham, Angel was encouraged to grow as a student and as a leader through mentorship, leadership development, character building, and college and career readiness.

A proud alumna of Elevate Birmingham and Valedictorian of Wenonah High School, Chrysanthemum Powell has earned $1,160,850 in scholarships, a life-changing achievement built through years of dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence.

Chrysanthemum will enter the University of Alabama at Birmingham to pursue a degree in nursing, where she hopes to serve others and make a lasting impact in healthcare.

Her story is a powerful reminder that the gap is not ability, it is access. With opportunity, support, and belief in their potential, young people can pursue their goals and become leaders in their communities.

At the Birmingham Urban Debate League competition, Elevate Birmingham students achieved remarkable success against students from across the city.

Jibria Poole earned 1st Place Debate Team Champion and a Top Speaker Award. Kendra Gardner earned 3rd Place Debate Team Champion.

Their accomplishments represent more than trophies. They reflect discipline, preparation, teamwork, communication skills, and the confidence to use their voices with purpose.