Meet Kenna A. (she/her), a 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship winner who is studying Computer Science at Philander Smith University.

What is your dream?

My dream is to make it impossible for young girls to believe that dreaming big isn’t for them. I want to stand beside Black girls, especially — supporting them, opening doors, and helping them chase their dreams, whether in technology or any field where they’ve been told it’s impossible.

Please share a short quote that tells us how you feel about the win and what impact it will have on your career.

This win feels like a hand reaching back to pull me closer to my goals. It’s giving me the chance to grow, connect, and prepare for the career that will let me pay it forward to other women in STEM. Thank you to all who have a hand in making my dreams come true through the 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship!

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

Dear Dreamer — Please don’t just dream big; take hard work and resilience with you, as well — because when that hard work starts opening doors, the weight of those dreams can feel heavy, and resilience is what will carry you through to achieving them. I’m rooting for you! <3