John Hancock started the MLK Scholars Program 10 years ago to create opportunities for Boston students to grow as leaders. But many of the program’s scholars come away with much more than leadership skills. Like Amy Duong, an MLK Scholar from 2009-2014.

During her time as a Scholar with Teen Empowerment, Amy wanted to make a social impact on the community after losing her cousin to a random act of gun violence. Through this program, she developed the leadership skills that would help her find her voice. But she also believes that being a good leader means being a good listener.

Currently, she works as an internal auditor for Massachusetts courthouses, doing her part to give back to her community.