Collier County resident and Mason Classical Academy graduate Valentina Zuluaga earned Girl Scouting’s highest honor – the Gold Award – with her project titled, International Culture Sharing Club.

Planning to study international policy and relations in college, Zuluaga used her Gold Award as an opportunity to introduce students to local and global cultures and issues. She organized an International Culture Sharing Club at a local school, and hosted its inaugural event with representation of countries like Colombia, Haiti, United States, and Mexico.

“I feel empowered to make a difference in the world by encouraging others to look beyond their own lives and comforts toward improving the lives of the less fortunate,” Zuluaga remarked.

The Girl Scout Gold Award, open to high school Girl Scouts, recognizes girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through take-action projects with sustainable impact in their communities. The Gold Award is so prestigious that some universities and colleges offer scholarships unique to Gold Award Girl Scouts, and girls who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements.

Congratulations, Valentina!