SAA Seniors Earn 10<20 Youth Impact Award

Congratulations to outstanding St. Agnes Academy seniors Mirriam Okafor and Cinthia Torres who earned the Top 10 < 20 Youth Impact Award from Memphis Parent magazine. This award celebrates young adults who strive to impact their community through school, business, leadership or service, and by committing themselves to changing the lives of others for the better. 

Originally from Nigeria, Mirriam moved to Memphis and enrolled in St. Agnes in 9^th grade. During her junior year, Mirriam founded the Multicultural Club in the Upper School to help build a sense of belonging for students from underrepresented groups or immigrants who were far away from home. She has served as the organization’s president for two years.

“I created the Multicultural Club at St. Agnes as a means of bringing together students from various cultural backgrounds, while helping to foster an environment where differences are celebrated. I am hoping to promote growth and open-mindedness for our students about the world around them, and to give the next generation of students a place of belonging and a sense of home,” Mirriam explained.

Recently named Miss St. Agnes 2025, Mirriam is a member of the Ladies First and Starlettes vocal music groups. She volunteers as a Retreat Leader and a Student Ambassador. She is a member of the National Honor Society, English Honor Society, and Beta Club. She has participated in both Bridge Builders and Youth in Government as well as Model UN where she was recognized as an Outstanding Delegate. Mirriam plans to study nursing in college.

Mirriam has this advice for other young women: “My advice to other students is that no matter where you come from, never feel that you cannot impact the lives of others around you. Always be your true self and be kind and generous. Always see the good in others and be readily available to offer help to anyone in need or perhaps be a light to others.”

Cindy Torres has impacted the greater Memphis Community through her commitment to youth activism. For two years she has served as a District Representative on the Shelby County Youth Council-acting as a bridge between local representatives and the youth. She is also a member of the Memphis Interfaith Coalition for Action and Hope (MICAH) Youth Council.

“I believe I have positively impacted my community through the work I have done with local youth organizations,” Cindy said.  “I strive to inspire the next generation, encouraging them to find and use their voice, and take action to improve their community for the better. My hope is that my impact improves the lives of youth in my community, paving the way for future young leaders to continue to advocate for change.”

Cindy has served the St. Agnes community as a Retreat Leader, a Teacher’s Assistant, and a Student Contributor for the Communications Department. She is a member of the National Beta Club, Spanish Honor Society, Government Club and Multicultural Club. She has participated in both Bridge Builders and Youth in Government, as well as Model UN where she was recognized as an Outstanding Delegate. Cindy plans to study Journalism and Political Science in college.

Cindy shared this advice for other students: “My advice to others who may be hesitant to get involved is to remember that your voice matters. Getting involved in activism and community organizing can feel scary at first but remember to take it one step at a time. Start out small, learning about issues that matter to you and find people who have similar beliefs. Perhaps you could volunteer at an event, attend a meeting, or even sign a petition. There is no incorrect way to be involved in your community.”

We are so proud of Mirriam and Cinthia for this well-deserved recognition! They will be featured in an upcoming summer issue Memphis Parent magazine for this honor.