Born to lead

BY DEXTER MCCREE, Feature Writer

ST. PETERSBURG –The author Kevin Hall once said, “Your gifts are not about you. Leadership is not about you. Your purpose is not about you. A life of significance is about serving those who need your gifts, your leadership, and your purpose.”

Since Alexandra Givins’ freshman year in high school, she has acted as the Student Government class president. She was born to lead. In a short time, it seems that her life story has been written. It is a life that is already full.

She served as a cadet in the Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp in various capacities, worked as the Professional Opportunity for Students second vice president, the Future Business Leaders of America BETA representative, a Business, Economics, Technology Academy (BETA) student advisor, a National Society of High School Scholars ambassador and a member of the National Honor Society.

Alexandra has accomplished so much in her career as a student from consistently being on the academic Honor Roll/Dean’s List to being a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. contest winner to volunteering at different charitable organizations.

“I am truly humbled by all of the accolades that have been bestowed upon me; however, my greatest achievements come from using my talents and experiences to help others,” she said.

Alexandra deserves even more accolades for overcoming the trauma of being bullied. For about eight months during her sophomore year, she was harassed, teased, treated unfairly by her peers and ignored by many adults who she reported the matter to.

She could have let this episode in her life turn her into a bitter, angry, secluded and silent person, but instead, she leaned on her faith, friends and family.

“I realized the validity of the words of author, poet and playwright Oscar Wilde: ‘What seems to us as bitter trials are often blessings in disguise.’ I became a voice.”

With the support of a mentor, Alexander developed a series of bully prevention forums. The events were well received by youth at the school and in the community.

After the forums ended, several students expressed an interest in the development of a bully prevention and support group. Thus, Flawless Petals was founded.

Flawless Petals has become a program that has blessed and saved the lives of many youths. A situation that she deemed to be unfortunate, she says has only strengthened her and others in the areas of determination, perseverance and leadership.

“Alexandra is a joyful, enthusiastic and focused young woman who will accomplish anything on which she sets her heart and mind,” said mentor Susan P. Ajoc. “Her spirit is contagious and inspiring.”

Alexandra’s future plans are to attend Florida A&M University and serve as a computer analyst in the United States Armed Forces. Betting odds is she will get it done.

Alexandra is the daughter of Anthony Givins and Dr. Rongette Levy.

To reach Dexter McCree, email dmccree@theweeklychallenger.com