Living the Dream: Mara Northey and the Power of Purpose at KWS
Sixth grader Mara Northey is proving that age is no barrier to impact. A student at Khan World School (KWS), Mara has been named a recipient of the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Living the Dream Award, a statewide honor recognizing individuals who advance Dr. King’s vision through meaningful service to their communities.
For Mara, service isn’t a résumé builder or a one-time project — it’s a calling rooted in empathy, action and a belief that even the smallest effort can change lives.
A heart for service, turned into action
Mara first learned she would receive the Living the Dream Award through an unexpected phone call from the Arizona Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee.
“I was so surprised,” she said. “I screamed in my parents’ car. I didn’t even know I was nominated.”
That surprise quickly turned into reflection. For Mara, the recognition represents something bigger than an award. “It means I’ve done a good job living out Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream about social justice,” she shared.
Much of that work happens through Trevor’s Vision, a Phoenix-based nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness. Over the past year, Mara has become deeply involved, forming relationships, organizing donations and showing up consistently for people who are often overlooked.
It’s amazing how something as simple as a hot pizza or a new pair of shoes can make someone feel seen. I love helping people in need in my community.”
Dreaming big — and delivering
Mara’s service journey began after noticing the growing number of unhoused individuals during everyday drives around Phoenix. Determined to help, she searched for ways to volunteer only to discover that many organizations wouldn’t accept someone her age.
Trevor’s Vision was different.
After connecting with the organization’s founder, Mara was encouraged to help in any way she could. That encouragement sparked action. At just 10 years old, she led the nonprofit’s annual shoe drive, collecting more than 300 pairs of shoes, enough for two full giveaways.
This year, she went even further.
Combining her love of rock climbing with fundraising, Mara created “Climb for a Cause,” a community-driven fundraiser to provide Trevor’s Vision with essential supplies. Through speeches, interviews, restaurant giveback nights and fundraising events, she raised more than $15,000, securing enough donations to provide underwear for the nonprofit for two full years.
“The smallest action makes a huge impact,” Mara said. “When we all come together, those actions add up to something really big.”
Mara naturally steps into leadership — encouraging peers, modeling strong work habits and creating an inclusive, supportive classroom culture.”
Growing as a changemaker at KWS
Mara credits her experience at KWS with helping her turn compassion into confidence and ideas into action.
“Being a student at KWS has allowed me the flexibility to go to daytime events like interviews and networking meetings,” she said. “It’s helped me think creatively about the difference I can make in the world.”
According to KWS Learning Guide Joe Slaton, that mindset shows up both academically and personally.
“What stands out most is Mara’s genuine desire to make a positive, tangible difference for others,” Slaton said. “She leads with empathy and connects her learning to real-world needs.”
That connection is central to the KWS online model and global vision. Through project-based learning, global perspectives and real-world problem solving, students are encouraged to apply what they learn beyond the classroom.
“Our school embeds service and civic engagement into learning,” Slaton said. “Students identify real needs and design actionable solutions. Mara exemplifies what’s possible when students are empowered to act now — not someday.”
Recognition that inspires — and multiplies
For Mara’s family, the Living the Dream Award reflects values they’ve worked to instill since she was very young.
“Mara has always been happiest when helping others,” her parents shared. “Seeing her recognized for living out Dr. King’s values at such a young age is incredibly meaningful.”
That recognition has ripple effects.
“Real-world awards like this reinforce that students don’t need official titles or adulthood to make an impact,” Slaton said. “They inspire peers, build confidence and elevate the importance of service across our school community.”
As for Mara, the lesson she hopes other students take away is simple — and powerful.
“Always follow your dreams,” she said. “When something gets in your way, persevere and try, try again.”
Building a global community
Mara’s peers at KWS see her as an inspiring example of leadership and empathy. “Mara encourages others, models strong work habits and naturally fosters a positive, supportive community,” Slaton said, “Her energy and kindness make KWS feel like a family.”
Through her service projects, Mara has gained more than just experience helping others; she has developed skills that will benefit her throughout life. “Mara learns how to plan, organize and follow through on big ideas,” Slaton said. “She demonstrates perseverance, creativity and dedication in everything she does. Most importantly, she understands that even small actions, when combined with others, can create a huge impact.”
Students at KWS are encouraged to explore their passions, think creatively and take initiative — values Mara embodies fully. “She shows that there’s no limit to what you can do when you combine your interests with a desire to serve,” Slaton added.
Her accomplishments also highlight the collaborative spirit of the KWS community. “I am so proud of all the students, staff and families who support one another in these projects,” Mara’s parents said. “Mara’s journey proves that impact isn’t done alone — it’s built together, one action at a time.”
Ready to help your student turn passion into purpose?
At KWS, students learn in a personalized, mastery-based environment designed to meet them where they are — and help them go further. With flexible scheduling, global perspectives and real-world learning experiences, KWS empowers students to pursue their interests while building the skills that matter most.
Explore how KWS supports students in grades 6–12 through individualized learning pathways, meaningful projects and a supportive global community.
Attend an info session, watch a recording of one or schedule a conversation with an advisor to learn how Khan World School helps students grow as thinkers, leaders and changemakers. Explore more inspiring stories like Mara’s on the ASU Prep blog.
