WASHINGTON — This time of year, we celebrate grads and dads. This story celebrates both.
Ahmed Muhammed recently graduated from Oakland Tech High School in California, but he wasn't just any graduate.
Ahmed became the first Black male to be the valedictorian at his high school.
His GPA was an outstanding 4.73.
He did it in a city where only about two-thirds of Black males in high school graduate.
His motivation to succeed came from his dad, a retired firefighter, and his dad's high expectations.
In fact, his dad's expectations were so high, he told his son that he wouldn't go to his graduation unless he was the school's valedictorian.
Sure enough, Ahmed followed through and was named valedictorian.
Now, he's already thinking of the future.
"We need more unity and working together, and working with each other to raise each other up," Ahmed said. "That's really what I want to do."
Congratulations on your great achievement, Ahmed.
If you have something you'd like to share, email us at GetUplifted@wusa9.com or contact Allison Seymour on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Be sure to subscribe to the Get Up DC newsletter, where we'll be sharing an uplifting story every morning as well.