Technology High School Student Earns Duke of Edinburgh Award

Newark, N.J. – Victoria Abigail Lazo Zumba, a Technology High School sophomore, has achieved international notoriety.

On Thursday, Victoria became the District’s first recipient of a Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (Bronze), an honor founded by Prince Phillip, Queen Elizabeth II’s husband who held the title of Duke of Edinburgh until his death in 2021. Suzanne Currie, CEO of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA, bestowed the honor upon Victoria at a special ceremony at the high school on Thursday.

“We are incredibly proud of Victoria’s accomplishment,” said Technology High School Principal Edwin Reyes. “Her dedication to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is inspiring, and we believe it will serve her well in her future endeavors.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is an educational program to empower young people aged 14 to 25 to develop essential life skills. Participants engage in various activities, including volunteering, physical recreation, skills development, and adventurous journeys. By completing these challenges, young people gain confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment.

Victoria is an Honor Roll student who fulfilled the program’s physical education requirement by playing on the school’s volleyball team. Her new skill she developed was learning how to crochet, and her volunteer services included a number of community-cleaning projects, including one in the school’s neighborhood. She also volunteers to babysit and helps younger students with their homework. Victoria’s adventurous journey was an outdoor three-day excursion near the Closter Nature Center, where she participated in various survival activities and sporting events.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global program with millions of participants worldwide. It is offered in over 140 countries and territories, and universities and employers recognize it as a valuable qualification.

The District’s partnership with Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA was fostered by Dr. Maria Ortiz, assistant superintendent overseeing the District’s high schools.

“We are immensely proud of Victoria for her outstanding achievement in earning the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Her dedication, resilience, and commitment to personal growth are truly commendable,” said Superintendent León. “This accomplishment is a reflection of the support and encouragement provided by Dr. Ortiz, Principal Reyes, and Ms. Currie. Their dedication to fostering opportunities that empower our students to reach new heights makes this recognition possible. Congratulations to Victoria and everyone who played a role in this incredible milestone.”

“Congratulations to Victoria on this remarkable achievement of earning the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Her hard work and determination are an inspiration to students throughout our District.”