Leadership is more than giving directions, it’s about inspiring others, taking initiative, and making a meaningful impact. For Vivia Gordon, a fifth-grade student at Lafayette Elementary School, leadership comes naturally. This summer, she will join students from across the country at the Junior National Young Leaders Conference, hosted by Envision by WorldStrides at the University of Maryland. This opportunity highlights Vivia’s dedication, work ethic, and ability to lead.
A Teacher’s Perspective
Vivia’s nomination for this program came from her music teacher, Mr. Tyler Turpin, who saw her leadership skills early on. “Vivia is always looking to contribute, not just in class, but in any situation where she can help,” Turpin shared. “She communicates well with her peers and students in other grades. Watching her interact and encourage others has been a great experience.”
Turpin noted that Vivia brings people together, whether through music, teamwork, or by setting an example in the classroom. “She doesn’t just tell people what to do, she leads by showing kindness, patience, and determination,” he said.
A Multifaceted Student
Vivia is an active member of her school community. She participates in the student ambassador program, plays a lead role in the school musical, and competes on a traveling soccer team. Her ability to manage multiple responsibilities while excelling in each one speaks to her commitment and focus.
Her principal, Dr. Marian Grill, shared the pride felt by the Lafayette Elementary School community. “Lafayette is incredibly proud of Vivia Gordon for being selected to attend the National Junior Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C.! This opportunity highlights her dedication, hard work, and leadership potential. We can’t wait to see the impact she will make in the future!”
Dr. Grill emphasized that Vivia’s leadership extends beyond school activities. “She supports others, encourages them to do their best, and creates a positive environment. That’s the kind of leader the world needs,” she said.
Defining Leadership
For Vivia, leadership is about making a difference. “I’m really excited to go and learn more about being a leader,” she shared. “Leadership to me means helping people and showing them the right way to go.”
Her idea of leadership is not about being in charge but about guiding and supporting others. She believes leadership is about working together and encouraging those who need it. This mindset aligns with her goal of traveling the world to help others, possibly as a nurse or humanitarian when she grows up.
An Opportunity for Growth
The Junior National Young Leaders Conference will give Vivia hands-on experiences that will challenge her to think critically, collaborate with peers, and develop problem-solving skills. Students in the program engage in real-world simulations and interactive workshops designed to strengthen their ability to lead and adapt.
This experience will connect Vivia with other students from different backgrounds, exposing her to new ideas about leadership and service. The conference equips students with tools to address real-world challenges and take initiative in their communities.
Vivia’s selection for this conference also reflects the learning environment at Lafayette Elementary School. Mr. Turpin sees her achievement as part of the school’s culture. “Lafayette is full of talented students who bring their own perspectives to learning. Vivia is one example of many students here who push themselves to grow and challenge their limits.” 
Leading Through Music
Vivia’s love for music also shows her willingness to take on challenges. Mr. Turpin recalled how she learned and helped teach Spanish-language songs for the school’s holiday concert, despite not being a native Spanish speaker. “She embraced the challenge and even helped others with pronunciation and rhythm. Seeing her lead by example and support her classmates was impressive.”
Music, for Vivia, is a way to connect with others and express herself. She enjoys discovering rhythms, learning about instruments, and sharing music with friends. Her favorite artist, Taylor Swift, has been a source of inspiration, reinforcing her belief that music can tell stories, bring people together, and create change.
A Community of Support
As Vivia prepares for this opportunity, her determination, kindness, and enthusiasm for learning embody the qualities of a strong leader.
She shows that leadership is not just about accomplishments but about character and the ability to uplift those around her. The entire SDoL community supports her and looks forward to seeing how she grows from this experience and applies her leadership skills to make a difference.
The Junior National Young Leaders Conference is just the beginning for Vivia. With her passion and dedication, she will continue to make an impact wherever she goes.
“I am excited for Vivia to meet, work, and collaborate with fellow high-aspiring students from other cities and schools,” said Dr. Jan Sikorsky, Vice President, Education for Envision. The Junior National Young Leaders Conference is a wonderful opportunity for ambitious young students to explore their interests outside the classroom and discover how to innovate and think creatively through hands-on immersive learning. Our students are challenged with real-world simulations and problems, working together to develop unique solutions and projects to bring life to their studies and career interests.”
For over 35 years, Envision by WorldStrides has empowered extraordinary students to become their best selves through programs that enable them to discover their passion, explore a career, and positively impact their world. In 2018, Envision became part of the WorldStrides family. The largest provider of educational travel and experiences in the United States, WorldStrides works with over 50,000 educators each year to help more than 550,000 students see the world, and themselves, in new ways.