The Aspen Ideas Festival, a vibrant gathering of thinkers and doers from around the globe, offers a unique platform for discussions on some of today’s most pressing issues. This year, the grand prize winners of the Aspen Challenge found themselves in the heart of this inspiring environment, and the experience was nothing short of transformative.

Brevan J. from Mira Mesa High School in San Diego summed it up perfectly when he said, “My favorite part of being in Aspen was getting to see all the nature it had to offer.” The stunning views from their hikes and the beauty of Aspen’s surroundings left a lasting impression on all participants. Simon N., also from Mira Mesa High School, echoed this sentiment, loving the opportunity to sightsee with his team, from hiking to exploring the quaint city streets.

At the Ideas Festival, the Aspen Challenge winners reveled in the wide array of topics and speakers. Brevan appreciated the variety, stating, “There being so many options meant that everyone could explore their interests.” The intimacy of the festival made each session feel personal, as Paul Morgan, an educator at Mira Mesa, highlighted how even large discussions felt uniquely engaging and intimate.

Presenting on stage was another highlight. Brevan felt a sense of ease knowing the stakes were low, while Simon embraced the thrill of addressing an audience he felt was genuinely interested in their message. The pride each participant felt in their work was palpable. Kara Teschner, an educator at SDSCPA in San Diego, noted, “This experience lit a fire in my students’ souls,” reflecting a newfound passion for making a difference in their communities.

As the winners returned home, the impact of their experiences in Aspen lingered—both on a personal level and within their communities. The Aspen Ideas Festival not only provided them with a platform to showcase their projects but also fostered a sense of connection, learning, and inspiration that they will carry forward.

In the midst of the powerful leaders from around the world who attended and spoke at the Festival, there, too, were 40 incredible young leaders from the Aspen Challenge. Peter Ng-A-Fook, principal of Multicultural High School from Brooklyn North Public schools remarked, “No matter what happens, [these students] deserved to be there.” And we couldn’t agree more.