Upper School Students Win Top Honors in Sister Cities International's 2025 Young Artists and Authors Showcase

Two of NSA's Upper School students are receiving international recognition for their artistic talents and creativity.

Allison Spires '26 earned first place in the Sister Cities International Young Artists and Authors Showcase in the 15-18 age category for photography. Her piece, "Through Our Eyes," captures two faces side-by-side, zoomed in on the eyes, evoking connection and shared perspective across cultural divides.

Margaret Laney Cross '28 earned third place in the 12-14 age category for poetry. Her poem, "MC, My Grandma's Friend," tells a heartfelt story spanning generations and continents, inspired by a Cold War-era friendship between pen pals in the United States and Hungary. Her work illustrates how laughter, stories and shared experiences can overcome language and borders, leaving a legacy of lifelong friendship.

Now in its 37th year, the annual Young Artists and Authors Showcase invites young people ages 12 to 18 worldwide to creatively express the mission of Sister Cities International through art, literature, photography and music. This year's theme, "Friendship: The Heartbeat of Global Peace," celebrates the role of friendship in fostering understanding, collaboration and unity across cultures and borders.

340 entries from 10 countries were submitted to the contest's international level. Allison and Margaret Laney were two of 36 participants selected as award winners. As winners, Allison and Margaret Laney will receive cash awards for their work, which will also be featured on Sister Cities International's platforms.

Congratulations to Allison and Margaret Laney on this accomplishment!