14-year-old brilliant girl emerges first-ever African American to win spelling bee competition, bags multiple scholarships
Hailing from Harvey, Louisiana, Zaila made history by correctly spelling the word “Murraya,” a type of tree, in the final round, triumphing over 208 contestants from 5 countries. Following her remarkable victory, Zaila received full-ride scholarship offers from various prominent universities, showcasing her academic excellence.
AKACHI NOEL 
In a historic achievement, 14-year-old Zaila Avant-Garde has become the first-ever African American to win the National Spelling Bee competition, securing multiple scholarship offers from prestigious universities across the United States.
Hailing from Harvey, Louisiana, Zaila made history by correctly spelling the word “Murraya,” a type of tree, in the final round, triumphing over 208 contestants from 5 countries. Following her remarkable victory, Zaila received full-ride scholarship offers from various prominent universities, showcasing her academic excellence.
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Louisiana State University President William Tate expressed his admiration on Twitter, “Zaila Avant-garde @basketballasart performed at the highest level in the National Spelling Bee. Your academic performance reflected scholarship first! You modeled intellectual excellence. @LSU_Honors awaits. I write to offer you a full scholarship to attend LSU. Here for you!”
The Louisiana Community and Technical College System offered a scholarship, stating, “In celebration of her incredible performance at the National Spelling Bee, LCTCS is proud to offer Zaila Avant-garde a full scholarship to any Louisiana community and technical college.”
Southern University President Ray L. Belton extended a warm welcome on Twitter, “I am pleased to announce that @Southernu_BR is offering #ZailaAvantgarde a full scholarship and “#Zaila Day” at SU, part of the nation’s only #HBCU system. Our student leaders, faculty, and alumni look forward to meeting with you. We welcome you to the #JaguarNation!”
Despite holding three Guinness World Records for her basketball prowess, Zaila has expressed an interest in playing college basketball at Harvard University. Looking ahead, she aspires to work in Neuroscience or Gene Editing, with dreams of contributing to NASA or playing in the NBA.
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Zaila's exceptional achievements not only highlight her prowess in spelling but also emphasize her commitment to academic excellence and her diverse interests. Her story serves as an inspiration, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
