Over the weekend, Assemblyman Brian Curran (Lynbrook-21st A.D.) hosted a “Young Leaders In The 21st” event. This event honored young people who make a positive difference in their community. The following people from Malverne were honored:

• Farah Sadik- Farah Sadik, of Malverne, New York, is an exemplary student ambassador for Malverne High School. As one of the top academic leaders in the graduating class of 2024, the 17-year-old has consistently displayed strong leadership and mentorship skills necessary in the 21st century. She is extroverted, persistent and compassionate, and excels both in academics and athleticism. Farah’s a valued member of the Malverne High School Varsity Tennis Team. She has continuously excelled in singles competitions showcasing her resilience and determination in every match played. Throughout her career, she has been recognized and awarded for her academic and athletic abilities, including presidential awards and scholarships. Beyond academics and athleticism, Farah is deeply involved in student leadership, serving as the President of both the Student Response Club and the Young Explorers Club at Malverne High School. Her passion for service and exploration is evident in her enthusiastic participation and dedication to these unique organizations. Furthermore, Farah is a gifted musician with the piano and guitar. As a soprano with the Select Choir, she continues to enrich the community with her musical talents. Over the years, Farah has showcased her artistic abilities on stage, exquisitely portraying the role of Eponine in Les Miserables with gusto, grace and emotion. As Farah embarks on university, she is dedicated to giving back to her community through coaching children’s tennis. Her passion and dedication for the sport shine through in her exemplary work with young athletes, inspiring and guiding them to reach their full potential on and off the court. Moreover, as a young girl, Farah has shown tremendous care for her community by steadfastly growing her hair to maximum length and donating it twice to organizations that make wigs for young cancer survivors affected by severe hair loss. Given Farah’s accomplishments and contributions to her school and community, she is a well-deserving recipient of the state award for being a Young Leader of the 21st Century by Assemblyman Brian Curran. Her leadership, talent and perseverance serve as a model and an inspiration for her peers and community alike.

• Jack Bitoni- Jack Bitonti, a senior at Chaminade High School, was born into a life of adventure as the son of an active-duty Marine officer. He traveled the world attending six schools by the time he was 14. Currently, Jack, a National Honor Society recipient, holds the mantle of leadership in school and in his community. He serves as President of Student Ambassadors, co-founded the Surf Club and serves as Vice Captain of the Rugby Team. In his community, he achieved the rank of Life Scout with Troop 24 in Malverne where he honed his leadership skills through scouting’s values of integrity and responsibility. Through this, he was selected to attend Boy’s State New York. Jack will be attending The Citadel Honor College in Charleston. SC this fall.

“Young people are powerful. All throughout history, youth movements have had a tremendous impact on the way society thinks, acts and runs. Even today, it is young people who continue to lead the charge in the fight for equality and justice for all. I want to encourage young people to be bold. Change the world. Don’t be afraid to be a part of something bigger. Young people are a powerful group, and with great power comes great responsibility. Use your powers to make our small planet a better place Farah and Jack are great examples of young leaders,” Curran said.