FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Tom Berich, Operations Manager
Email: tom@luminari.org Website: www.luminari.org
PITTSBURGH, PA – March 19, 2025 – Luminari is proud to announce the winners of its annual essay competition that challenges teens, in grades 7 through 11, to explore what diplomacy means to them. This year, two exceptional young women have been named as our 2025 Luminari Award Scholars: Mira Frawley and Mariana Ramirez. Both winners will receive a scholarship, valued at over $1,200 each, to attend the transformative “I Want to be an Ambassador!” summer camp.
“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 essay competition highlighted the importance diplomacy plays in our daily lives, and the winners truly embody this spirit.
Mira Frawley, a first-year student at Winchester Thurston Upper School, delved into how diplomacy influences everything from world affairs to personal relationships. In her essay, she reflected on moments that ignited her passion for building bridges and fostering collaboration. Mira wrote, “Diplomacy is about communication over conflict. It’s how we connect, compromise, and create solutions together.” Drawing from experiences like participating in Model UN and facilitating educational opportunities, Mira envisions a future where her skills in public speaking, leadership, and global awareness make a lasting impact.
Mariana Ramirez, a third-year student at Fox Chapel High School, reflected on navigating cultural differences with empathy and understanding. “This program will give me the opportunity to gain new skills, expand my knowledge, and show that immigrants can succeed,” shared Mariana. As a Colombian immigrant, she passionately described her journey to challenge stereotypes and inspire others to pursue their dreams. Mariana plans to use these lessons to grow as a leader and pursue a career in nursing. With a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives, she hopes to use diplomacy to build connections, foster mutual respect, and honor her parents’ sacrifices.
This year’s “I Want to be an Ambassador!” program, running June 10-18 in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., will welcome Mira, Mariana, and 18 of their peers to engage with diplomats, visit embassies, and tackle real-world challenges—all while learning innovative strategies to foster mutual respect and collaboration.
“The future of diplomacy starts here,” said Debbie Casini Klein, I Want to be an Ambassador! Director. “These teens are not just learning skills; they are becoming ambassadors of respect and change.”
Will your teen be next? Visit www.luminari.org for more details on how to join this unique program.
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