Luminari Award Scholars: Mira and Mariana
by Luminari staff
Luminari is thrilled to announce the winners of its esteemed 2025 Luminari Awards, an annual essay competition that celebrates the spirit of diplomacy by awarding scholarships, each valued at over $1,200, to two outstanding students to attend the transformative “I Want to be an Ambassador!” summer camp. This year, the spotlight shines on two remarkable young women: Mira Frawley and Mariana Ramirez.
Empowering Through Diplomacy – “Every successful interaction, whether in government or daily life, starts with diplomacy,” said Hilda Pang Fu, Luminari President and Founder. “Our campers learn vital skills like effective communication and problem-solving, empowering them to bring positive change to their families, schools, and communities.”
This year’s competition underscored the importance of diplomacy in our everyday lives, and Mira and Mariana have proven to embody this spirit wholeheartedly.
Meet Mira Frawley: Bridging Gaps Through Diplomacy – As a first-year student at Winchester Thurston Upper School, Mira penned an essay about how diplomacy influences global affairs and personal relationships alike. With a flair for building bridges and fostering collaboration, Mira’s passion radiates through her words: “Diplomacy is about communication over conflict. It’s how we connect, compromise, and create solutions together.”
An active participant in Model UN and other initiatives, Mira has leveraged public speaking and leadership to inspire positive change. Beyond her academic achievements, Mira is a dedicated figure skater, a budding guitarist, an enthusiastic knitter, and a voracious reader of historical fiction. She envisions her future studies in humanities and international relations, saying, “I am grateful for the opportunity to develop skills in diplomacy and foreign relations through these unique encounters in both Pittsburgh and D.C.”
Meet Mariana Ramirez: A Journey of Leadership and Empowerment – Mariana, a third-year student at Fox Chapel High School, shared her personal story of navigating cultural differences with empathy. A Colombian immigrant, she writes with unwavering determination: “This program will give me the opportunity to gain new skills, expand my knowledge, and show that immigrants can succeed.”
Passionate about challenging stereotypes, Mariana aspires to a future in nursing and is committed to honoring her parents’ sacrifices by becoming a leader who fosters mutual respect. Her science teacher, Jennell Wolfe, speaks highly of her: “Mariana’s genuine desire to learn, confidence, and leadership qualities have earned her this well-deserved award. Her dedication and resilience throughout high school have truly set her apart.”
A Life-Changing Opportunity – The “I Want to be an Ambassador!” program runs June 10-18, in both Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. Mira, Mariana, and 18 other students will immerse themselves in activities such as engaging with diplomats, visiting embassies, and tackling real-world challenges. Debbie Casini Klein, the program director, summed it up: “The future of diplomacy starts here. These teens are not just learning skills; they are becoming ambassadors of respect and change.”
Mira reflects on the journey ahead with excitement: “These experiences will help me to contribute meaningfully in local service projects and facilitating at Model UN conferences to inspire other youth leaders.”
Will your teen be next? Explore this extraordinary opportunity at www.luminari.org and join the legacy of respect, leadership, and diplomacy.
Together, we celebrate the achievements of Mira Frawley and Mariana Ramirez—proof that young leaders can shape a brighter, more connected future.
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