Memphis Parent announced its search for the next class of 10<20 youth and young adults who are striving to impact their community through school, business, leadership, or service, by committing themselves to changing the lives of others for the better.
With so many stories of young people seeking to make a positive difference in the world, we wanted to recognize them and celebrate their wonderful efforts.
Give it up for Memphis Parent’s 10<20 Class of 2026!
Cover Photo: Justin Fox Burks
Memphis Parent - Summer 2026 Cover
Gabriella Grace Conway, 10
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Gabriella Grace is a fourth grader at Hutchison School in Memphis. She is a lover of art, animals, and adventure, and is a responsible global citizen dedicated to making everyone she meets feel like they truly matter.
She is a hands-on and tireless servant leader — likely to be found cleaning city streets, serving food at homeless shelters, or performing praise dances with peers at Life of Liberty Church.
Gabriella Grace advocates for youth empowerment and positive self-talk, often sharing affirmations and encouragement for herself and others. Her leadership stands out for its ability to unite generations and cultures. As co-leader of the Annual Mommy and Me Walk — a distinctive initiative that brings Memphis families together through nature, art, and global heritage — Gabriella Grace fosters cultural awareness while promoting community wellness and supporting local businesses. The words she shared during an interview as a guest on the Dr. Telisa Franklin Show — “You matter, too.” — initiated a purposeful call-to-action for uplifting others, especially young people.
Gabriella Grace continues to mature in her transition from local advocate to a global ambassador for Journey to Compassion, contributing to the strategic expansion of educational partnerships across the African Diaspora (Ghana, DR, Puerto Rico and beyond), making universal experiential learning more accessible.
She maintains high academic standards, studies Mandarin, serves as a lead performer for the Grizzlies Blue Bunch, and engages in her church’s praise dance ministry.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: Merge Memphis, Life of Liberty, The MAD Foundation, Grizzlies Blue Bunch, Mommy & Me Walk (Co-leader), GalleryGirls901, and Communitea & Triumph
Agastya Rana, 11
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Agastya, an insightful sixth grader at West Collierville Middle School, is already establishing his service and leadership as a legacy in the making.
Over the past two years, Agastya has made a meaningful and lasting impact in his community through leadership, service, and initiative. During summer breaks, he consistently looks for ways to support others in need: organizing and donating baby baskets for newborns to offer comfort and essential supplies to families; spending time assisting elderly neighbors with everyday tasks and sharing companionship; and other thoughtful opportunities to serve. Agastya has taken the initiative to lead neighborhood clean-up efforts, encouraging others to care for their shared environment, while helping create a cleaner and safer community. He volunteers with the NASA Astro Camp at the Collierville Library, helping younger students explore science and space.
He has participated in — and won — the Tennessee Kids Serve Summer Challenge. His overwhelming impact and efforts earned him a special certificate of honor for his community service, awarded by Tennessee Governor Bill and First Lady Maria Lee, at the governor’s residence.
An aspiring entrepreneur, Agastya developed and presented an innovative idea during a 4-H STEM project presentation — earning 1st Prize — with the concept of a mobile app helping users track plastic bottle usage to reduce waste and promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: 4-H Member (Championship Awards), NASA Astro Camp (Collierville Library), Chess Club, Junior Olympics for Swimming, Tennessee Kids Serve Summer Challenge (Winner), Entrepreneurship Exploration, and more
Jaxson Perry, 13
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Jaxson, a seventh-grade homeschool student, is a talented trombone musician and athlete who enjoys playing basketball for Elmore Park and Team Thad’s AAU program in Memphis.
Jaxson fell in love with basketball at the age of one, when his late grandfather, Dr. J.L. Perry, put his first basketball in his hands. His enthusiasm for the sport has intensified over the years. The Nike Jr. EYBL Circuit — one of the most prestigious for youth basketball players — is helping shape Jaxson into a high-performing athlete and preparing for his dream of playing college basketball.
Additionally, Jaxson played the trombone with the sixth and seventh grade Ensemble Band at his former middle school before enrolling in home school to complete seventh grade.
Jaxson is a member of the Memphis Omega Lamplighters, an organization dedicated to helping young men grow and develop their leadership talents. Some of their volunteer efforts include A Taste of Memphis and the
Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Annual Pumpkin Run. He has also served as a volunteer youth ambassador for the Memphis In May Great American River Run, leading efforts to encourage and inspire youth to be physically active in a fun and social setting.
Beyond his interpersonal influence, Jaxson has a strong sense of responsibility toward his broader community and approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and care. Whether he is assisting with community clean-ups, volunteering at youth events, or representing his school in extracurricular activities, Jaxson exhibits that doing good is not just something you do when convenient — it is something you live out daily, especially when no one is watching. He is not only improving his community, but inspiring others to do the same.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: Memphis Omega Lamplighters, Team Thad’s Nike Jr. EYBL (Class of 2031), Eagle Ensemble Band (Elmore Park Middle School), Youth Ambassador - Memphis In May Great American River Run, and more
Kameron Thomas, 14
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Kameron, a freshman at Memphis Academy of Science & Engineering (MASE), has made a positive impact on others through his creativity, compassion, and commitment to serving in his community.
Art has been a key component of Kameron’s engagement in expressing himself and connecting with others. Since the tender age of two, he has been immersed with drawing, which has led to his dream of becoming a well-known illustrator someday. He utilizes his talent to inspire others and demonstrate that creativity can be a healthy and powerful outlet, as it has proven to benefit him.
Kameron is deeply involved in helping others. He volunteers at various community events and spends time feeding the homeless each week. This service is especially meaningful to him — understanding what it feels like to endure homelessness — and gives him a strong sense of empathy for others experiencing difficult situations. He strives to exhibit kindness and respect to others who may feel overlooked.
In his school environment, Kameron is known for being helpful and supportive to others. He enjoys assisting classmates in need and encouraging peers who may be having a tough day. His caring nature also extends to animals and habitat with a strong urge to keep the environment clean and motivating others to take pride in their surroundings.
Through his art, volunteer work, and everyday acts of kindness, Kameron shows a genuine desire to make a difference. His compassion reflects his character and commitment to improving the world around him for the better.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: JROTC, MASE Band, Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Memphis Omega Lamplighters, Memphis Youth Development Group, Memphis Rising 20 Award, WREG-TV’s Student of the Week, and more
Marlee Anderson, 15
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Marlee is a sophomore at Tipton Rosemark Academy in Millington. She currently holds the title of Miss West Tennessee Teen Volunteer, and will compete for the State title in July 2026.
Marlee uses her voice, time, and leadership to support children and families facing serious illness, through her involvement with the St. Jude Leadership Society. She founded a nonprofit, Marlee’s List, a directory of organizations and resources that support families encountering challenges resulting from a medical crisis — travel, housing, meals, emotional encouragement, and more. She works to connect families of critically and chronically ill children with helpful resources, organizations, and support systems. An active volunteer at the FedEx Family House and fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Marlee’s own experience is a testament after her family received life-sustaining support when she was born prematurely 15 years ago. It is her mission to ensure other families have that same sufficient relief.
Additionally, Marlee is an accomplished competitive gymnast, dancer, cheerleader, and volleyball player, and was voted by her class as the Junior High School Homecoming Queen last year.
Marlee is a leader who is bold, empowering, and brave, but also witty, friendly, and sisterly. She leads with kindness and poise, and listens to the needs and perspectives of others in a way that is unique for a young woman her age.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: Miss Teen West Tennessee, Jr. Miss Delta Fair, St. Jude Leadership Society, Boys and Girls Clubs, FedEx Family House, and Forrest Spence Foundation, and more
Caden Beckwith, 15
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Caden is a freshman at Compass Community High School Midtown in Memphis. He leads with humility and purpose, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others through his actions and voice.
Caden is actively involved in a variety of extracurricular, leadership, and volunteer activities that display his commitment to service, personal growth, and community engagement. He demonstrates a strong desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Caden participates in church programs and outreach initiatives, consistently offering his time and support through volunteer service. He serves as a positive role model showing respect, responsibility, and faith-based values that encourage other young people to become more engaged and confident in their own gifts and abilities.
His involvement with BRIDGES Memphis allows him to contribute to programs focused on mentorship, education, and personal development. Through service opportunities, Caden helps create safe, supportive spaces for youth, offering encouragement and guidance that positively influence those around him. He is a member of the Chick-fil-A Ambassador Club, promoting positive values and civic responsibility, as well as representing the organization through leadership, teamwork, and community service activities.
Caden volunteers as a speaker for various programs, utilizing his voice to encourage, motivate, and inspire peers and younger students. His willingness to speak and share his experiences reflects confidence and a genuine desire to uplift others. He consistently shows dedication to serving his community and leading by example.
Madison “Madi” Sanders, 17
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Madi is a senior at St. George’s Episcopal School in Collierville, and a dedicated leader who strives to positively impact those around her.
Madi has excelled inside and outside the classroom at St. George’s: Breast Cancer Awareness campaign organizer, leader through Model UN, and elected by the student body as Prefect of Service — one of the highest leadership honors at St. George’s, where she has modeled selflessness and compassion, engagement in service opportunities, and consideration for the needs of others.
Madi is a respected leader, and an effective contributor to the school’s Mock Trial team, demonstrating quick thinking, sharp reasoning, and confidence under pressure. As captain, her hard work and diligence help lead them to a #1 ranking. She works as a swim instructor, teaching and mentoring younger students by helping them build confidence and important life and water safety skills. Madi consistently uses her talents to encourage and uplift others, and is academically studious holding a 4.2 GPA.
Madi is actively involved in several activities that reflect her leadership and commitment to others. Additionally, she is a caring and responsible big sister to her 3-year-old sibling, Maci, and takes pride in being a positive role model both at school and home. Overcoming multiple knee injuries in high school did not veer her off course, but rather proved her grit and ability to persevere through adversity. Facing these responsibilities and challenges head-on speaks volumes about her character and deep sense of resilience to thrive beyond high school.
Madi strengthens every community she joins. Her combination of intellectual ability, tenacity, leadership, and empathy is rare and remarkable.
Madalynn Campbell, 17
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Madalynn, a senior at Middle College High School in Memphis, is deeply rooted in leadership, service, and academic excellence within her school and community.
She has consistently demonstrated a commitment to leadership, service, and making a positive impact in the lives of others, embracing opportunities that allow her to grow while supporting her school and community. Across campus, she is known for being dependable and willing to help wherever needed. She regularly supports the principal and school staff with various tasks, exhibiting responsibility, initiative, and a genuine willingness to serve.
Through her role on the Memphis City Youth Council, she has amplified the voices and concerns of young people across the city. This experience has strengthened her leadership skills and enabled her to offer ideas and perspectives that help community leaders better understand what today’s youth need to succeed.
Madalynn serves as vice president and membership chair of the Omicron Sigma Rhoer Club, and actively participates in service initiatives including volunteer projects for MLK Day of Service, as well as creating handmade blankets for NICU babies at Regional One Hospital. She has positively influenced the culture of the Rhoer Club by helping create an environment where young women feel supported, valued, and encouraged to lead. She models responsibility, confidence, and service, inspiring her peers — especially younger Rhoers — to step outside their comfort zones, participate actively, and recognize themselves as capable leaders and community advocates.
Her volunteer work extends across multiple organizations: spending quality time with elderly residents at Memphis Jewish Home and Rehabilitation Center; assisting with clean-up efforts at St. Patrick Church; and helping promote literacy and educational enrichment for younger students with BRIDGES and Peabody Reading and Enrichment Day.
She encourages her peers, models strong work ethic, and shows that leadership is not just about position, but service. Her ability to positively influence others, while maintaining academic excellence (4.1 GPA), sets her apart in making a lasting difference in her community.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: Pre-Health Society, Student Government Association (Corresponding Secretary, Vice President of Academics), National Honor Society (President), Memphis Youth City Council (Member/Presenter), Science Olympiad (Captain), Mayor Paul Young’s Advisory Council, Rhoer Club - Sigma Gamma Rho (Vice President, Rhoer Recruiting Student Advisor), Softball Team - Middle College High School, Football Team Manager & Athletic Liaison, Office Assistant
Myla McRee, 17
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Myla is a senior at Overton High School in Memphis, known for her outstanding vocal skills, servant heart, and impactful leadership.
Myla is part of the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) program, where she exhibits leadership and academic excellence. As president of the CAPA Choir and Soprano Section leader, Myla brings passion and discipline to every performance, and has grown into an exceptional musician and scholar, whose dedication, humility, and initiative continues to inspire everyone she encounters. She is a dedicated student and is established in the top 10 percent of her graduating class.
An avid volunteer with several organizations, including Memphis City Beautiful, Eikon Ministries, and other local initiatives, Myla reflects the virtue of the community that helped raise her with integrity and rigor.
She has experienced countless academic and musical opportunities to showcase her gifts and talents across many platforms and audiences, including Memphis-Shelby County Schools District, Memphis Youth Symphony, All-West/All-State Tennessee, Memphis Jazz Workshop (MJW), and more. Most recently, Myla (and other MJW students) received an invitation to present their profound music and vocals in New Orleans, at the 2026 JEN Conference, an annual event that brings together jazz beginners and experts for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Myla has a strong faith-based upbringing in the church and believes in supporting community efforts through financial giving and volunteer service for nonprofit organizations such as Mid-South Food Bank and Musicians on Call.
Myla inspires others by leading with love and grace. Her musical journey is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion, but her character leaves an even greater impact in the world.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: CAPA Choir (President), Memphis Rising 20 (Honoree), Overton Oscar Night (Best Jazz Vocalist), Six-year All West Award Recipient, Two-year All West (1st Chair/Soprano I) and All State, 2024 NAACP Gold Winner (Vocal Classical), Memphis Jazz Workshop, Sigma Alpha Iota - Pearls and Panpipes Debutante Cotillion, National Honor Society, NAACP Memphis Chapter (Youth), True Crime Club, Peaceful Overton Wolverines Club, Memphis Ambassador Program, and more
Jocelyn Oropeza, 18
Photo By Justin Fox Burks
Jocelyn is a senior at St. Mary’s Episcopal School in Memphis, and is one who combines intellect, leadership, and compassion to meaningfully improve the lives of others.
She is deeply grounded in school leadership, club activities, community legal service and advocacy, direct volunteer mentoring, athletics, and entrepreneurial work.
From an early age, Jocelyn has shown exceptional maturity and responsibility. After enrolling at St. Mary’s for pre-kindergarten — without speaking English — she quickly became fluent and took on the role of translator for her parents and family. This formative experience helped shape her strong commitment to advocacy, service, and justice for immigrant communities.
Jocelyn participated in the St. Mary’s Honors Independent Research Study (HIRS) program, a rigorous, college-level research experience. She focused her research on immigration law and policy, working closely with immigration attorney Colton Bane, through the Community Legal Center (CLC). Jocelyn actively supported asylum cases, served as a translator, assisted with filing applications, attended Master Calendar hearings, and presented her research and findings at the HIRS Symposium.
Extending her work beyond the classroom, Jocelyn organized and hosted a “Know Your Rights” program at her predominantly Hispanic church in partnership with her CLC mentor. Over two days, they educated attendees on different pathways to legal status, provided free legal guidance, and answered questions for families navigating the immigration system. Jocelyn interpreted throughout the event, ensuring participants fully understood their rights and options — transforming complex legal information into accessible, life-changing support for her community.
Jocelyn is an exceptional leader at school, serving on the Executive Council, president of the Spanish Club, Global Scholar, and an active member of organizations including the Wilson Society and Strive (student-led group that leads conversations on global issues). Through her Wilson Society involvement, Jocelyn works directly with the girls who board at Binghampton Christian Academy, encouraging their love of learning, developing grant-funded programming for them and their families, and serving as a role model for what it means to be a confident and capable young woman. She balances these commitments with varsity soccer, multiple jobs — including running her own nail business — and extensive family responsibilities, all while excelling academically. Her impact is genuine, sustained, and deeply felt.
Additional Achievements, Extracurriculars, and Volunteer Service: Executive Council, Spanish Club (President), Varsity Soccer, Wilson Society and Strive, Global Scholar, Honors Independent Research Study Program, and more
Photos by Justin Fox Burks | Special thanks to Crosstown Concourse for hosting this year’s 10<20 photo shoot!