One talented Club alumna, Connie Jackson, 19, has made the most of opportunities offered at her Club. Her talent and participation in the ImageMakers photography program (see "Picture Perfect") at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Scottsdale, Ariz., have provided her with experiences she might not otherwise have had.

Connie became involved in photography when she was a high school freshman. The process of taking and developing photos provided a calm place in her life. When Connie's days grew stressful, she sought out the sanctuary of the darkroom.

For Connie, being "black, female and young hasn't always been easy, but I am determined to overcome any obstacles that are put in my path." Her self-portrait, entitled "Ms. President," represents her struggles during a difficult time and shows a photographer/ subject capable of overcoming challenges.

During Connie's junior year in high school, her Club's teen director recognized her potential as a photographer and encouraged her to enter the scholarship portfolio category of the ImageMakers contest. Connie's portfolio was selected as one of four national winners in the category for 2002 and again the following year. "It was a huge thrill to learn that I had won!" she says.

Connie, who is majoring in photographic imaging at The Art Institute of Atlanta, credits the ImageMakers program for her success.

"My father said, 'Find something that you love and make it your career,'" says Connie. "That's what I'm doing with photography."