Florida High School Asian American Civic Leadership Scholarship

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Objective:

The Florida High School Asian American Civic Leadership Scholarship is designed to support and encourage high school students of Asian American descent in Florida who are actively engaged in political involvement, civic leadership, and community advocacy. This scholarship seeks to empower young leaders who are dedicated to raising awareness of political issues, advocating for their communities, and fostering civic engagement. Scholarship recipients are required to join the Florida Asian American Justice Alliance Foundation, Inc. (FAAJA) upon receiving the award to continue their efforts in political and civic advocacy.

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Eligibility Criteria:

1. Enrollment: Applicants must be full-time students in grades 9–12 at a Florida high school.

2. Asian American Descent: Applicants must identify as Asian American, or demonstrate a strong connection to Asian heritage and culture.

3. Civic & Political Involvement: Applicants must demonstrate active participation in political, civic, or government-related activities, such as:

   • Volunteering for voter registration drives, civic education programs, or community advocacy initiatives.

   • Participating in student government, debate clubs, or political organizations.

   • Engaging in policy research, legislative internships, or civic activism.

   • Organizing or leading initiatives that promote political awareness, voting rights, or community engagement.

4. FAAJA Membership Requirement: Scholarship recipients must join the FAAJA upon receiving the award. FAAJA provides resources and leadership programs that promote civic participation and political engagement.

5. Academic Performance: Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

6. Civic Impact Statement: Applicants must submit a 500-word essay describing their civic or political involvement, its impact on their community, and their future goals in leadership and advocacy.

7. Personal Statement: A 500-word personal statement addressing:

   • The applicant’s motivation for engaging in civic or political activities.

   • How their experiences have shaped their leadership, advocacy, and vision for change.

8. Recommendation Letters: Two letters of recommendation:

   • One from a teacher, guidance counselor, or academic advisor.

   • One from a mentor, community leader, or political/civic organization representative who can attest to the applicant’s civic contributions.

Scholarship Awards:

• First Prize: $1,000 (1 recipient each from South Florida, Central Florida, and North Florida)

• Second Prize: $600 (up to 2 recipients per region: South Florida, Central Florida, and North Florida)

• Third Prize: $400 (up to 3 recipients per region: South Florida, Central Florida, and North Florida)

Scholarship funds must be used for educational expenses, including tuition, books, or materials that support the applicant’s academic and civic development.

Application Process:

1. Complete the online scholarship application form.

2. Submit an unofficial high school transcript to verify GPA.

3. Provide the personal statement and civic impact statement.

4. Submit two letters of recommendation.

5. Provide proof of intent to join the FAAJA upon award receipt.

Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated passion and commitment to civic engagement and political participation.

• Active involvement in leadership, advocacy, or government-related initiatives.

• Academic excellence and leadership potential.

• Quality and clarity of personal and civic impact statements.

Deadline:

All application materials must be submitted by May 31, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.

Additional Notes:

• Finalists may be required to participate in an interview or provide additional materials upon request.

• Scholarship recipients will be notified by June 30, 2025, and announced publicly.

• An award ceremony will be held in late July or early August. The specific time and location will be announced later.

By joining FAAJA, scholarship recipients will gain access to a network of mentors, resources, and programs that enhance their political engagement, leadership skills, and community involvement, particularly within Florida’s Asian American community.