J.LIVE Talk 2026 Finalists!

Following an exciting and highly competitive semifinal round, we are delighted to announce the 15 finalists of J.LIVE Talk 2026. Congratulations to all!

We look forward to welcoming you to the GWU campus on November 15!

(Listed in alphabetical order by last name)

High School Category I

Ethan Chen, Crystal Springs Uplands School (CA)

Adrian Ray Curameng, Lake Braddock Secondary School (VA)

Kenji Kirby, Washington Japanese Heritage Center (MD) 

High School Category II

Neil Dave-Syed, Hackley School (NY)

Leslie James, Stevenson School (CA)

Caelis Mattingly, Tallwood High School (VA)

College Category I

Rosalia Flores, University of West Florida

Kayla Perlman, The George Washington University

George Rogers IV, Georgetown University

College Category II

Adam Deslatte, Baylor University

Andrew Kim, Baylor University

Tao Li, Rice University

College Category III

Hailey Martin, Brigham Young University

Juliana Tetherow, Baylor University

Muxin (Michelle) Yao, University of Pennsylvania