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The Best and The Brightest of 2026

Brooke

Mandelbaum

Age 18
Senior
Chaparral High School 
Scottsdale

"Small acts of kindness can make the biggest difference." - Brooke Mandelbaum

Brooke is a compassionate, determined young leader who believes in the power of building strength, self-confidence and resilience at an early age.  As the founder of Building Beauty, a nonprofit she started in eighth grade, Brooke partners with the Phoenix Union High School District to provide 50 young girls with a prom dress, a prom ticket, and the chance to simply enjoy being a kid. At a time when economic hardships, insecurities and self-confidence struggles are more rampant than ever among young people, Brooke is on a mission to promote both inner and outer beauty, as well as cultivate empathy and compassion.

She learned perseverance throughout her journey of launching the nonprofit. She faced many challenges and roadblocks, from facing rejection because of her age to navigating delays and multiple setbacks. However, Brooke pushed through, and now enjoys hearing stories of gratitude and hope from girls who have faced homelessness, family deportation, and financial hardship. She also enjoys working with local business owners to create community events that support low-income students and build self-esteem. 

Brooke’s dedication to service extends beyond Building Beauty. She volunteers supporting both patients and staff at HonorHealth in both the NICU and PACU. She serves on the District’s Superintendent’s Advisory Board and is an active member of the Honor Society. She tutors students, and participates in Saturday Scrubs, a program that exposes high school students to careers in medicine. Brooke also sits on the teen leadership board of Friendship Circle, helping cultivate connections and friendships within the special needs community. She understands the value of stepping outside of comfort zones and realizes that even modest efforts can create meaningful change.

Looking ahead, Brooke plans to attend the University of Miami to study psychology and potentially pursue a pre-med track.