Silver Knight Award Recipient Teaches Others With Positive Media

MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- The Silver Knight Awards honor South Florida students who not only maintain good grades, but also use their special gifts to help society as a whole.

One of this year's recipients is 18-year-old Danielle Boyd, an aspiring filmmaker.

"I love media and I think it is so powerful with its influence and I'd like to share my messages to the world about leadership, positive thinking and learning how to live your life without worrying about others," said Boyd.

The recent St. Thomas AQUINAS graduate created a short film, entitled Evy, addressing negative media influences and issues facing young women regarding beauty, self worth and acceptance.

"Even though media may appear good it can send negative messages back like I'm not good enough."

That is the reason Boyd created the Mini Leaders Growing Project, aimed at helping young girls develop leadership skills, build confidence and set goals.

"Basically we made dream books to help shape their dreams into things they really want to do."

The dream books are just part of the exercises Boyd came up with to teach them about how to overcome obstacles.

Boyd's advocacy for young girls, funded out of her own pocket, along with her good grades and other volunteer activities is why she was awarded the prestigious Silver Knight Award.

"When I heard about all of the things that these people did and how accomplished they were, it made me feel like this big, so it was amazing just to be in that room and to be a part of that network and family. I mean the awards are nice, but it's nothing compared to what you are a part of."

Boyd, whose father recently died of cancer, says her parents are her inspiration. She says she feels her father's memory is honored every time she does something to help others.

Boyd will attend NYU this fall, where she plans to major in film production.