KNOW ABOUT UBUNTU
“A
Ubuntu is a concept originating from the Nguni Bantu languages of Southern Africa, particularly prominent among the Zulu and Xhosa peoples. It embodies the philosophy of interconnectedness, community, and humanity's shared identity. The term "ubuntu" is often translated as "I am because we are" or "humanity towards others"
At its core, ubuntu emphasizes the importance of relationships, empathy, and mutual respect in society It suggests that individuals exist in a web of interconnectedness and that their well-being is intrinsically linked to the well-being of others. In essence, one's humanity is affirmed and strengthened through their interactions with others.
person is a person through other persons.”
Ubuntu encourages qualities such as compassion, kindness, and generosity towards fellow human beings. It promotes a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, recognizing that collective efforts are essential for the prosperity and harmony of communities.
In modern contexts, ubuntu has been embraced beyond its African origins and has become a universal concept relevant to discussions on ethics, social justice, and human rights It serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the importance of fostering inclusive and supportive communities where everyone is valued and respected.
THETALENTEDTENGTH
– Archbishop Desmond Tutu
CONCEPT
The concept of 'The Talented Tenth,' popularized by W.E.B. Du Bois, underscores the importance of education and leadership within African American communities.
Du Bois argued that the top ten percent of educated and talented individuals had a responsibility to uplift and lead their community towards progress and equality.
“Education and work are the levers to uplift a people.”
This idea emphasizes the power of education and the potential for positive change through the leadership of a select group of individuals. Today, 'The Talented Tenth' continues to resonate as a call to action for advancing social justice and equality.
– WEB Du
Bois
THETALENTEDTENTH 04
KEWAUN HIGHTOWER
Kewaun Hightower Jr. is the son of Kewaun Hightower Sr. and Karen Adams. Kewaunee was a proud member of the Skills USA program, where he competed in the CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) program. He participates in Bibb County's Youth Apprenticeship program. During his high school tenure, he volunteered at the Children's Hospital Network Fundraiser. Kewaun had the honor and privilege of escorting Mayor Lester Miller For the past two years, Kewaun has had the privilege of attending the Congress tour in Washington, DC After high school, Kewaun plans to attend Kennesaw State University and major in nursing
1H I G H T O W
E R
A’LAILA HAMPTON
A'Laila Hampton is the daughter of Christopher Hampton and Andrea Knight. A'Laila is a member of the National Technical Honor Society and DECA program. She served on the varsity cheerleading team and was the captain for two years. She was also a part of the flag football team during her senior year. She was part of the Phlebotomy dual enrollment program at Hutchings College and Career Center. A'Laila has gained her
CNA certification from Southwest High School; she was nominated for the Govern's Honor Award After high school, A'Laila plans to attend Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia 2
H A M P T O
N
ISAIAH CURRY
Isaiah Curry, a seventeen-year-old student, proudly holds the spot of the top 3 in his class. He is graduating a year early and will attend Fort Valley State University, majoring in Electrical Engineering. Isaiah's lifelong dream is to become an engineer, and he is excited to pursue it. His go-to song for overcoming challenges in high school is "Never Would Have Made It" by Marvin Sapp.
C U R R Y
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JORDAN SMITH
Jordan is a dedicated senior at Southwest Magnet High School and Law Academy. He is involved in various extracurricular activities, including leadership roles in the Southwest Marching Patriots and SkillsUSA. He has attempted college-level coursework and holds a Technical College Certificate in Engineering Technology Essentials. He is this year's Southwest STAR Student and maintains an A average. Jordan will attend either the University of Georgia or the Georgia Institute of Technology in the summer or fall to major in Electrical Engineering, emphasizing Circuit Technology
S M I T H
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CEDRIC FULLER
Cedric Fuller is an 18-year-old senior at Southwest High School. He has been passionate about dance since he was three. After graduation, he plans to enlist in the United States Air Force, followed by entrepreneurship in real estate, interior design, and theater. His goal is to establish a dance company while living in Hawaii. Cedric seeks new experiences and a purpose-driven life.
F U L L E R
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NYSIA HUGHES
Nysia Hughes, daughter of Monique and Ontario Hughes, is a senior at Southwest High School and ranked 6th in her class. She excelled in elementary school, earning recognition for her exceptional academic performance. Nysia completed two dual enrollment classes in math during high school and plans to major in nursing at CGTC, transferring to Georgia State University to continue her studies. Her dream job is to become a travel nurse after completing her nursing program Nysia is determined to succeed and make her dreams a reality
U G H E S
H
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KALA DEAN
Kala Dean is the daughter of Jeffery and Kathy Dean. While attending Southwest High School, she participated in various extracurricular activities, including FBLA, Track and Field, and the Southwest Marching Band. She has completed over 100 hours of community service and was elected President of the Class of 2024. After graduation, Kala plans to attend Fort Valley State University on a band scholarship and study Biology to pursue her future goal of becoming a biologist
D E A N
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W I M B
WILLIAM WIMBERLY
William Wimberly is an All-A honor roll student and a captain of his varsity wrestling and football teams. He holds the position of cadet lieutenant colonel in his high school JROTC program and is a Life Scout, one step away from being an Eagle Scout. Recently, he won the Top Performer Award and the National Sojourners Award, which were given by the headquarters of JROTC William has been accepted into the Coast Guard Academy and will become an officer in the military doing engineering work after spending four years there
E
L Y
R
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JAMES MAY JR.
James May Jr. is a senior at Southwest High School, where he holds the position of Head Captain of the football team, senior representative, and school news anchor. His passion for sports and TV led him to pursue a career in sports broadcasting, and he plans to major in Broadcast Journalism at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU).
James aims to pave the way for future generations by leaving a legacy that follows him even after he's gone
M A Y
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ALAINNA ELLINGTON
Alainna Ellington is an 18-year-old Southwest High School senior passionate about sports and cybersecurity. She's the softball team captain and is actively involved in extracurricular activities such as the Student Athletic Council and the Technology Student Association. Alainna's commitment to her community is evident through her participation in school blood drives, and she has completed more than one Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education pathway She enjoys reading, crocheting, and watching Marvel and DC movies and TV shows in her free time 10
E L L I N G T O N
“Being young, gifted, and black is where it’s at”
-Nina Samone
The Val The Sal
“Some days feel a little heavier than the rest but you will always have time to breath & try again.”
-Unknown
KEWAUNHIGHTOWER &A’LAILAHAMPTON
Congratulations to Kewaun Hightower and A'Laila Hampton for their exceptional achievements Their dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance are truly inspiring. Mr. Hightower's pursuit of excellence, humility, and integrity earned him the valedictorian title. Ms. Hampton's resilience, determination, and tenacity have propelled her to the position of salutatorian.
Their accomplishments are a testament to the unwavering dedication of our students, the support of our faculty and staff, and the strength of our Southwest community.
Congratulations once again to our valedictorian and salutatorian.
05
A Bernard Young
A BERNARDYOUNG
A visionary vanguard stands at the forefront of innovation and progress, particularly within education. They possess a keen ability to foresee the future needs and challenges of their institution or educational community and are dedicated to pioneering new ideas and initiatives to address them
This individual is characterized by their forwardthinking mindset, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence in education. They are not content with maintaining the status quo but actively seek opportunities for growth, improvement, and positive change.
A visionary vanguard is highly influential and inspirational They can rally others around their vision and motivate them to contribute to its realization They lead by example, demonstrating creativity, adaptability, and resilience in facing challenges
Ultimately, a visionary vanguard plays a crucial role in shaping the future of education by pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and driving meaningful progress that benefits students, educators, and the broader community.
