Photo via Getty Images-Zaila Avant-garde understood the significance of what she was doing as she stood on the Scripps National Spelling Bee stage, peppering pronouncer Jacques Bailly with questions about Greek and Latin roots.
At just 14 years old, Zaila Avant-garde became a symbol of hope, brilliance, and determination when she won the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee. This historic victory made Zaila the first African American contestant to win in the spelling bee’s nearly 100-year history, placing her name alongside other trailblazers in the fight for representation and excellence in education.
Born in Harvey, Louisiana, Zaila’s talents extend far beyond the world of spelling. In fact, her victory was just one of many accolades this young prodigy has achieved. Zaila is an accomplished basketball player who holds several Guinness World Records for her ball-handling skills, including the most bounces of four basketballs simultaneously. Her extraordinary athleticism and dedication to learning have made her a role model for young African Americans across the country.
Photo via https://www.si.com/advertise/2021/11/24/zaila-avant-garde-si-sportskid-of-the-year -“Spelling it just a thing I do,” Zaila says. “My primary focus is basketball.” On the court, the 14-year-old is an elite point guard who has set four world records for dribbling multiple balls at the same time.
Zaila’s journey to the top wasn’t easy. Like many young Black girls, she faced the challenge of navigating spaces where representation was minimal. Yet, with the support of her family and her unrelenting passion for learning, Zaila pushed forward, studying words with the same intensity she applied to perfecting her basketball dribbling.
Her victory in the Spelling Bee is not only a personal achievement but a victory for representation in fields where African American children are often underrepresented. Zaila’s success is a powerful reminder that young African Americans can and do excel in a wide range of disciplines when given the opportunity and support.
Since her win, Zaila has used her platform to encourage other young people to pursue their dreams and embrace education. She has expressed her hopes of attending Harvard University one day, and she continues to pursue excellence in both academics and athletics.
Zaila Avant-garde is more than just a Spelling Bee champion; she’s a symbol of possibility. As we celebrate Black History Month and reflect on the contributions of historical figures, it’s equally important to honor the young trailblazers like Zaila who are actively shaping the future of Black history. Her story is a testament to the limitless potential of African American youth when they are empowered to succeed.