Greensboro, Ga. (March 9, 2021) – Lake Oconee Academy student Arie’una Long has been selected as a top 21 youth leader by 21st Century Leaders, a Georgia-based non-profit youth leadership and talent development program for high school students from diverse backgrounds. Long is one of 21 students from across Georgia chosen for their significant impact on their schools, communities and beyond.

21st Century Leaders (21CL) brings together business and civic leaders to raise support for 21CL’s year-round leadership programs for high school students and members of 21CL. The students nominated for the Georgia Youth Leadership Award were carefully chosen by a 28-member selection committee comprised of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 under 40 members, who also serve as mentors to the 21CL students and 21CL Board of Directors, corporate volunteers, alumni and student peers.

Long, currently a junior, started attending Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) in Pre-K. She is the daughter of the late Reginald Long, Sr. and Audra Lawrence-Long, and the sibling of Reginald Long, Jr. She has a passion for music and has been honored with the LOA Band Achievement and the LOA Band Musicianship award during her high school years. Long’s goal is to pursue a career in the music business. As an A/B honor roll student, Long has challenged herself academically by completing four dual enrollment courses and seven AP® courses, all for potential college credit hours. She has participated in the Girl Scouts, Beta Club and is a REACH Scholarship recipient. In 2020, she started her own business, Mystical Kreations, selling bracelets, anklets, keychains and self-defense keychains.

“Arie'una's consistent demeanor and work ethic have remained steadfast,” said Dr. Jody Worth, LOA’s Chief Academic Officer. “As a school community, we are so proud of her accomplishments and personal growth.”    

Long will attend a virtual celebration originating in Atlanta with other student leaders on Thursday, March 25, 2021, where she will receive a $500 grant.