Josiah Carnegie embodies strength and determination. A martial artist and formidable wrestler with impressive wins at 285 pounds, Josiah was awarded Wrestler of the Year in 11th grade at Wilson High School, near Niagara Falls NY. A few miles away at Lockport High School, he earned his varsity letter in 10th grade and helped his team win the league championship, second place in the Section VI, and #25 in the state.
Josiah credits his wrestling coaches for inspiring him to better himself mentally and physically, and they sing his praises as a dedicated athlete and team player. “He’s a great kid, and deserves to be showcased,” said Lockport coach Joseph Scapelliti. “He was a steady contributor and one of the most dedicated kids on the team.”
Josiah also competed in varsity football and varsity track and field, during his high school career, and explored his talents in the performing arts in Drama Club and school talent shows.
Josiah’s strength and determination extend well beyond the athletic realm. Despite moving from his hometown of Oakland CA before ninth grade and then attending three different high schools across New York State, Josiah found his way socially and academically at Corcoran, and graduated as a high honor roll student (GPA above 95%) with his two moms, girlfriend, and younger siblings cheering him on from the audience.
Josiah will be the first man in his family to go to college, and this is what he’s most proud of. He’s looking forward to going on to study nursing at Onondaga Community College in the fall, and says his motivation comes from picturing himself in ten years, working as a pediatric nurse practitioner and raising a family, owning a home, and driving a nice car.
“I know I need to do the right things to get there,” he said. “I chose to be better than what society expected of me. I chose to be different than the negative people in my life, and to be around the positive people who want me to succeed.”
Josiah’s determined spirit and gift for words shine through in an original rap (video below) he wrote that chronicles some of his greatest trials and his victory over them.
Accomplishments: “High Honor Roll, Wrestler of the Year, Award for Best Non-Verbal Communication, Unsung Hero Award.”
What will be your generation’s mark on history? “Continuing to improve social rights. Acceptance of all different types of people.”
What quality do you love most about yourself? “My resiliency, when it comes to facing adversity and proving people wrong.”
Click here to read more We Are Syracuse – SCSD Class of 2019 profiles.
