Honoring Life: Meet Sophia, Scholarship Winner

Honoring Life: Meet Sophia, one 2025 Joshua Michael Liu Memorial Scholarship Recipient

At Next Step, we believe the future of the pro-life movement is being shaped by young people who speak with boldness, compassion, and conviction. That’s why we are proud to introduce Sophia, the 2025 recipient of the Joshua Michael Liu Memorial Scholarship—an annual award given to a high school student who demonstrates a deep commitment to the value of every human life.

Sophia’s story is both personal and powerful. When she was just in preschool, her oldest sister faced an unexpected pregnancy at the age of 17. Amid fear and uncertainty, her sister made the courageous decision to choose life. Her baby, Liam, was born prematurely—a tiny fighter with a fierce will to live. Today, Liam is 14 years old: artistic, wise, full of joy, and a built-in best friend to Sophia.

“Life, no matter how small or unexpected, is always worth choosing,” Sophia wrote in her winning essay. “Even if your plans get rerouted, God always has a perfect path. His goodness and favor never fall short.”

Sophia’s reflection captures the heart of the pro-life message—recognizing that every life is sacred, filled with purpose, and worthy of protection. Her words offer a compelling reminder that even the hardest choices can lead to the most beautiful outcomes.

The Joshua Michael Liu Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of a beloved son, celebrating young people who carry forward the same passion for defending life. Sophia’s voice—and her lived experience—represents the kind of leadership and love that gives us hope for the next generation.

Her story also reminds us why your support matters. It is your generosity that allows us to invest in students like Sophia, equipping them to speak truth, offer compassion, and become the change-makers of tomorrow.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or just discovering our mission, we invite you to continue standing with us—and with students like Sophia—as we build a culture that boldly loves them both: mother and child.

Thank you, Sophia, for inspiring us with your heart, your story, and your courage.