Celebrating 25 Years of Braille Challenge: 2025 Finalists Announced

Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Braille Challenge

The Braille Institute has proudly unveiled the fifty finalists set to compete in the 2025 Braille Challenge Finals. This year holds special significance as it marks a quarter-century milestone in promoting braille literacy among blind and visually impaired youth. The event, which will take place from June 26-29 on the University of Southern California (USC) campus in Los Angeles, showcases the remarkable achievements of these students who emerged victorious from a competitive pool of nearly 1,300 participants from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Ireland.

The 50 finalists represent twenty-two states across the U.S. and four Canadian provinces, embodying a diversity of talent and commitment to braille literacy. The list of finalists is accessible on the Braille Institute's website. The Braille Challenge stands out as the only academic competition specifically designed for students who are blind or visually impaired.

A Legacy of Literacy

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Braille Challenge encourages students in grades 1-12 to enhance their braille literacy skills. Contestants are evaluated in various areas, including reading comprehension, speed and accuracy, spelling, proofreading, and interpreting tactile charts and graphs. Studies consistently show that proficiency in braille is linked to greater success in education and subsequent employment opportunities for blind and visually impaired students. Over the past quarter-century, approximately 22,000 students have participated in the challenge. The program has evolved into a global initiative, hosting 66 regional events to support local youth.

A recent alumni survey revealed an inspiring statistic: 80% of Braille Challenge participants have pursued higher education, underscoring the program's lasting impact on academic and professional pathways. Rachel Antoine, Director of National Programs and Youth Services at Braille Institute, emphasizes this by stating, "This year's Finals are not only a celebration of our talented students but also a testament to 25 years of transformative impact. Braille Challenge is more than a competition—it's a movement that shapes futures, builds confidence, and creates lifelong friendships."

Events of the Finals Weekend

Finals Weekend will offer a plethora of activities beyond testing. A welcome reception, family workshops, a documentary screening about the Braille Challenge, and a prestigious awards ceremony are all scheduled. Highlighting the awards ceremony will be keynote speaker Anthony Ferraro, a blind athlete, musician, motivational speaker, and social media influencer known for his inspiring story of resilience and positivity. Additionally, Amelia Diaz, a Braille Challenge alumna who participated in its inaugural event, will share her journey to encourage the current participants. Recognition will also be given to Audrey Graves, this year's Teacher of the Year, for her excellence in braille instruction.

The awards ceremony is set for June 28 at 6:30 PM PDT and will be live-streamed on Braille Institute's YouTube channel, enabling family, friends, and supporters to witness the achievements of these remarkable students.

About Braille Institute

For over a century, the Braille Institute has dedicated itself to transforming the lives of individuals facing vision loss. Annually, it provides invaluable support to more than 25,000 adults, youths, and children through a range of educational, social, and recreational services—all offered free of charge. This invaluable work is made possible thanks to the generous support of donors, volunteers, and dedicated staff members.

To learn more about the Braille Challenge and follow the journey of the finalists, visit the Braille Institute's official website.