Zaila Avant-Garde Cemented Herself in History Books — and She’s Not Done Yet

September 25, 2025

Zaila Avant-garde, an 18-year-old prodigy, has built an impressive list of accomplishments including becoming the first African American to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee in 2021, authoring five books, and holding three Guinness World Records for basketball skills. After an initial spelling bee defeat in 2019 that motivated her to work harder, she prepared intensively by studying 13,000 words for seven hours daily with tutors. Currently, Avant-garde is beginning her studies at the University of Maryland on a full scholarship, majoring in cell biology and genetics with aspirations to become a biomedical researcher for NASA's human research program, specifically focusing on enabling long-term human colonization of Mars.

Who is affected

Zaila Avant-garde
African American youth who may be inspired by her achievements
Readers of her books, particularly young people seeking guidance on self-confidence
Students and faculty at the University of Maryland
Future beneficiaries of her potential biomedical research

What action is being taken

Avant-garde is starting her first semester at the University of Maryland on a full scholarship
She is studying cell biology and genetics
She is pursuing her education with plans to become a biomedical researcher
She is exploring the possibility of achieving another Guinness World Record

Why it matters

Avant-garde made history as the first African American to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee
Her story demonstrates how determination can lead to success after initial failure
She serves as a role model for young people, particularly African Americans
Her educational pursuits could contribute to future scientific advancements, particularly in space colonization
Her books provide guidance and inspiration for building self-confidence in young people

What's next

Avant-garde aims to work for NASA's human research program
She plans to research methods for humans to live in long-term colonies on Mars
She is interested in pursuing another Guinness World Record

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint