Girl Scouts recognized for creating lasting change in their communities

Boca Raton resident Lilly Nguyen and Delray Beach resident Ronica Deshmukh each earned the coveted Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest and most prestigious recognition attainable by Girl Scout seniors and ambassadors in grades nine through 12. This award highlights the creative and impactful projects these young changemakers have developed to address real-world challenges in their communities.

Lilly Nguyen, Boca Raton
Nguyen’s project, “Heart to Heart,” addressed the life-threatening realities of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S. With cardiac arrest claiming hundreds of thousands of lives annually, Nguyen focused on the importance of CPR education as a vital, yet often inaccessible, life-saving skill. She discovered that many individuals lacked proper training or confidence due to financial and informational barriers. As a certified CPR instructor, Nguyen provided free hands-on training to high school students and community members in public spaces, including schools and libraries, equipping them with both the knowledge and confidence to act in emergencies. To extend the reach of her work, Nguyen developed a website and social media platforms that featured CPR tutorials, music-based pacing guides and heart health tips. She also trained future instructors to ensure the classes would continue beyond her direct involvement.

GSSEF Board of Directors Chair Tula Hudson-Miller, Priya Deshmukh, Gold Award Girl Scout Ronica Deshmukh, GSSEF CEO Lisa Johnson (1)

Ronica Deshmukh, Delray Beach
For her project, Deshmukh focused on “Shattering Stereotypes: Empowering Asian Voices in Media.” Recognizing how the media shapes identity and aspirations, particularly among the younger generation, Deshmukh sought to challenge cultural expectations and amplify diverse Asian voices in creative industries often overshadowed by traditional career paths. She interviewed successful Asian professionals in media, including actors, journalists and artists, most notably Rushi Kota, known for his role in Netflix’s “Never Have I Ever.” These interviews highlighted the challenges of typecasting and the need for authentic representation. By sharing these stories through social media, Deshmukh ignited conversations around visibility, breaking cultural norms and pursuing creative passions. Her YouTube channel continues to inspire viewers, encouraging future generations to see themselves not just in the story, but as lead characters. In recognition of her impactful work, Deshmukh was also awarded the inaugural $2,500 GSSEF Board of Directors Gold Award Scholarship.

“We are so proud of all of our Gold Award Girl Scouts whose projects are insightful, impactful and relevant,” said Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. “With their projects, these young ladies tackle some of today’s most pressing challenges with compassion, innovation and leadership. They are change agents that are making a true impact in their communities and beyond.”

These Girl Scouts were among 27 young female leaders in the region to earn the Gold Award during the 2025 Annual Gold Award Ceremony, with sponsorship support from Amazon, Fiserv, Florida Power & Light, Great Charity Challenge, HCA Florida Healthcare and Publix Super Market Charities.

About Girl Scouts
The preeminent leadership development organization for girls, Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida provides a safe, supportive environment for girls to learn, lead and thrive, surrounded by a supportive network of peers and caring adult mentors. Through unique, impactful experiences, girls from kindergarten through 12th grade are empowered to become confident, capable and compassionate leaders who engage their communities, inspire lasting change and make a positive difference in the world. They are encouraged to explore their full potential, dream big and act boldly. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida serves 6,100 girls and engages 3,600 volunteers across Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee counties. To explore opportunities to volunteer, donate or partner with Girl Scouts, call 561-427-0177 or visit www.gssef.org.

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