Ms. Lila Star Morgan

Lila Star Morgan is an award-winning youth advocate, author, nonprofit executive, and emerging public policy leader whose work centers on empowering young people—especially young women—to recognize their ability to create meaningful change regardless of age. At just 19 years old, she will graduate from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Criminology, demonstrating the same commitment to challenging expectations that has defined her leadership journey.

Lila is the author of Becoming Undeniable, a book that challenges age-based stereotypes and argues that leadership is defined by character, vision, and action—not by the number of years someone has lived. The book reflects her core philosophy that every individual, regardless of age, background, or circumstance, possesses the capacity to influence their community, solve problems, and leave a lasting impact on the world.

She is the Co-Founder and President of I Choose To Be Drug Free, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth substance abuse prevention, education, and advocacy. Through her nonprofit leadership, public speaking, and community engagement, Lila has worked to amplify youth voices and empower young people to become leaders in their own communities.

A passionate advocate for youth rights, civic engagement, and women’s empowerment, Lila has served in leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. She served as President of the Florida National Guard Youth Advisory Council, representing military-connected youth and advising senior military leadership on issues affecting military families. Her dedication to service was recognized nationally when she was named the 2026 Operation Homefront Military Child of the Year for the National Guard.

Lila is also a former Cadet Lieutenant Colonel in the Civil Air Patrol, where she served as Florida Wing Cadet Advisory Council Vice Chair, Cadet Commander of the Brandon Cadet Squadron, and Cadet Competition Team Commander. During her Civil Air Patrol career, she earned numerous distinctions, including the General Ira C. Eaker Award, Amelia Earhart Award, General Billy Mitchell Award, Florida Wing Cadet of the Year, and Group Cadet of the Year honors.

A Certified Youth Advocate in Leadership and Human Rights, her leadership extends into public policy, research, and community engagement. She has served as a Congressional Intern and Lead Intern in the United States House of Representatives, conducted research focused on human trafficking prevention, and held leadership positions within numerous Jewish, educational, and civic organizations. At age 15, she became the youngest individual crowned Miss Florida and later earned the national title of Accomplished American Grand Supreme. Over the past six years, she has dedicated more than 8,000 hours to volunteer service.

Lila brings a unique perspective shaped by her experiences as a young leader, advocate, military child, author, and nonprofit executive. She is committed to ensuring that young women are empowered to lead boldly, speak confidently, and recognize that they do not need permission to make a difference.

Lila's mission is simple but powerful: to help build a world where leadership is measured not by age, but by courage, character, and the willingness to serve others.