By JustMy News Desk Education & Youth Spotlight

MEMPHIS, TN — It is often said that talent is universal, but opportunity is not. However, when talent meets opportunity—and is fueled by mentorship—the results are undeniable.

The MVP3 Foundation, led by media mogul and philanthropist Marie Pizano, announced this week that former intern Amya Williams is being formally recognized for her leadership and excellence as she transitions into the next phase of her academic career at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

Amya, a product of Westwood High School in Memphis, is not just attending UT; she has been selected to participate in Vol Edge, the university’s innovative career readiness program designed to give students a competitive advantage in the modern workforce.

The MVP3 Experience: More Than Just Media

Amya’s journey began in the halls of Westwood High, where she joined the MVP3 Foundation’s internship program as a student film and TV intern. Under the guidance of Pizano, Amya didn't just fetch coffee; she was immersed in the high-pressure worlds of journalism, public relations, and marketing.

For many, an internship in entertainment media suggests a career in Hollywood. But Amya has her sights set on a different kind of theater: Medical Research.

This pivot highlights the true value of the MVP3 program. The Foundation isn't just training filmmakers; it is training leaders.

"I am thrilled and proud of one of our students," said Marie Pizano, Chairwoman and President of the MVP3 Foundation. "She excelled in our journalism, PR, and marketing internship. We feel she has the ability to shine in any field as she moves towards her career in medical research, proving our program can help prepare a student for many fields."

The "Vol Edge" Validation

The quality of Amya’s work in Memphis was so significant that the University of Tennessee reached out to MVP3 directly to verify her experience. This verification was a key step in her entry into Vol Edge, a program that emphasizes engagement, discovery, and reflection to build career-ready graduates.

"However, I must say she was a blessing and an exceptional intern," Pizano added. "Way to go, Amya, the future is bright!"

JustMy Take: The Power of Transferable Skills

This story is a masterclass in what we call "workforce readiness."

There is a misconception that if a student wants to be a scientist, they should only focus on science. Amya Williams proves that theory wrong. By cutting her teeth in PR and Media with MVP3, she learned how to communicate complex ideas, how to work under deadlines, and how to lead a team.

Whether you are pitching a movie script or presenting a medical research paper, the ability to command a room is the same.

We applaud Marie Pizano and the MVP3 Foundation for investing in the students of Westwood High, and we cheer on Amya Williams as she represents Memphis excellence in Knoxville.

About MVP3 Foundation

The MVP3 Foundation is dedicated to education, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. Led by Marie Pizano, the organization bridges the gap between creative ambition and professional reality. For more information, visit www.MVP3foundation.org or check out the new streaming service at www.MVP3network.com.