FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Tom Berich, Operations Manager
Email: tom@luminari.org
Website: www.luminari.org
Announcing the 2026 Luminari Award Winners: Tawhed Sadat and Zora Rose
PITTSBURGH, PA – March 2026 – Luminari is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Luminari Award, an annual essay competition inviting students in grades 7-11 to explore the meaning of diplomacy in their lives. This year’s scholars: Tawhed Sadat of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s English Language Support Program and Zora Rose of Pittsburgh Public Schools CAPA 6-12 were selected for their thoughtful reflections on communication, understanding, and global citizenship.
Both students will receive a full scholarship, valued at over $1,800, to attend Luminari’s immersive “I Want to be an Ambassador!” summer camp.
“Diplomacy is a skill that strengthens every community,” said Hilda Pang Fu, Luminari President and Founder. “These young leaders show us how empathy and communication can shape a better future.”
2026 Luminari ESL Scholar: Tawhed Sadat
Representing the Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s ELS Program, Tawhed wrote passionately about the power of peaceful problem‑solving. He shared that diplomacy is about “making agreements and finding ways to work together peacefully” and expressed his hope to help build “a world where people understand each other and solve problems together.” His recognition highlights the AIU’s commitment to uplifting multilingual learners and nurturing emerging leaders.
2026 Luminari Award Scholar: Zora Rose
Selected from applicants across Western Pennsylvania, Zora reflected on diplomacy as a daily practice of communication and respect. She wrote that diplomacy is “about communicating with others effectively,” drawing on her experiences in theater, language study, and student advocacy. Her essay demonstrated a clear passion for uplifting underrepresented voices and strengthening her school community.
A Summer of Leadership and Learning
The “I Want to be an Ambassador!” program, running June 9-17, 2026, will bring Tawhed, Zora, and their peers to Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. for hands‑on negotiation simulations, embassy visits, and conversations with diplomats and global leaders.
Will your student be next? Visit www.luminari.org to learn more about this unique opportunity.
###
