Empowering Change: Four Girl Scouts Earn the Prestigious Gold Award

Young Changemakers Making a Difference

The Girl Scouts have long been synonymous with developing leadership and community service skills among young women. In an inspiring display of commitment and creativity, four Girl Scouts from Parkland and Coral Springs have risen to the challenge, earning the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award. This accolade, the highest attainable for Girl Scout seniors and ambassadors, shines a light on the impactful projects spearheaded by Eliani Carr-Betts, Maha Siddiqui, Emma Solsona, and Ava Palazzolo. Each project, deeply rooted in addressing real-world challenges, underscores the power of youth-led initiatives in driving meaningful change.

Projects with Purpose

Eliani Carr-Betts embarked on a mission to raise awareness about human trafficking in Broward County, a region with a high incidence of such cases. Through social media outreach, organizing awareness events, and developing educational programs, Carr-Betts aimed to educate and protect vulnerable youth. Maha Siddiqui tackled the pressing issue of mental health among teenagers, particularly in the wake of the Parkland school shooting. By creating an online resource, Siddiqui provided a platform for teens to learn about and manage anxiety and depression, reaching hundreds within weeks of launch. Emma Solsona's "Minds Matter" club offered a safe space for students to discuss stress and mental well-being, promoting mindfulness and stress management techniques. Lastly, Ava Palazzolo challenged gender stereotypes in STEM through "A Girls Guide to Power Tools," empowering young girls with the confidence to engage in technical fields traditionally dominated by men.

Leaders of Tomorrow

The achievements of these young leaders were celebrated at the 2025 Annual Gold Award Ceremony, supported by notable sponsors such as Amazon and Publix Super Market Charities. Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, praised the Gold Award recipients for their insightful and relevant projects. Their initiatives not only address some of today's most pressing challenges but also exemplify the compassion, innovation, and leadership that define the Girl Scout movement. These projects stand as a testament to the impact that informed, passionate young individuals can have on their communities and beyond.

The Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, serving thousands of girls across multiple counties, continues to nurture confident, capable, and compassionate leaders. Through diverse and impactful experiences, girls are encouraged to explore their full potential and make a positive difference in the world. As we celebrate the achievements of these four Gold Award recipients, let their stories inspire others to dream big, act boldly, and embrace the power of making a change. For more information on the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida and how to get involved, visit www.gssef.org.

The courage and creativity displayed by Eliani, Maha, Emma, and Ava exemplify the very essence of the Girl Scout mission. Their projects not only brought about tangible benefits to their communities but also paved the way for future generations of girls to follow in their footsteps. As we reflect on their accomplishments, we are reminded of the immense potential that lies within each young person to be a force for good. Let us continue to support and celebrate the endeavors of young leaders, for they are the architects of a brighter, more compassionate future.