A 14-year-old pupil from Shreveport, Louisiana has warmed hearts after winning 2nd Place in his middle school Social Studies Fair with a project centred on Lake Victoria titled “Lake Victoria: Lifeline of Africa.”
Jayden, an 8th grader at Youree Drive Middle School, presented the project in which he broke down how the lake fuels transport, fishing, trade, and daily life for millions of East Africans, including communities in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
Backed by his Social Studies teacher, Mr. Pickett, Jayden spent weeks digging into how the lake supports families, powers local economies, and shapes the environment. His passion and research paid off, earning him national attention and applause from his school.
His mother, Angela Wells, said the achievement means the world to their family. She revealed that her son has been battling several challenges at school, and seeing him rise above them made this moment truly emotional.
“Watching Jayden push through difficulties and grow in confidence makes this recognition very special, It shows how far support and perseverance can take a child” she said.
The school’s principal, Ms. Maria Edwards, also celebrated Jayden’s victory, saying these projects help American learners connect with real-life stories from across the world, Uganda included.
Jayden’s work has now raised attention and curiosity among his classmates about Africa’s largest lake and all Ugandan traditional stories.
