Yuhka Emily Saito is a second-year medical student at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Upon moving to St Louis last year, she has been a part of the Japanese Community Health Outreach and has been organizing health seminars for the local community. Emily is passionate about advancing health equity and is committed to addressing social and environmental factors that affect one’s health through volunteering, research, and advocacy.

Dumebi “Didi” Igwe is a Nigerian-American student who will attend Southern Illinois University Edwardsville this fall to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Growing up as the daughter of immigrants has given her a unique perspective on diversity, culture, and representation. Through her experiences, she has come to understand the importance of celebrating the traditions, histories, and identities that make each person unique while also fostering communities built on mutual respect and understanding. Didi is passionate about promoting inclusivity, standing against prejudice, and creating spaces where people from all backgrounds feel seen, valued, and respected.

Leia Rhiannon Yogi is a Japanese, Korean, multiracial graduate of Parkway South and will attend the University of Oklahoma to study musical theater. Drawing from personal experiences with stereotypes and pressure to change her appearance, she uses dance, singing, and musical theater as platforms to challenge expectations and encourage others to embrace their identities confidently. Through her performances and future goals as a mentor and artist, she hopes to create inclusive spaces where young people feel empowered to tell their own stories authentically.

Presentations of the St. Louis JACL Scholarship awards will be conducted at the St. Louis JACL July 4th Picnic at Vlasis Park at on July 4, 2026. Congratulations to the 2026 St. Louis JACL Scholarship recipients!