An Alexandria eighth grader has earned a national award for a student documentary on gerrymandering, according to The Zebra. The recognition puts a young local filmmaker in the spotlight and highlights the kind of civic-minded, creative work happening in Alexandria’s middle schools.

The achievement is a testament to the curiosity and dedication of Alexandria’s student community, with a young resident taking on a complex civic topic and earning recognition from judges at the national level.

Also adding to Alexandria’s good-news roster this week: a local restaurant manager took home a RAMMY Award for best in the region, according to Patch. The RAMMYs are the Washington, D.C. area’s premier restaurant industry honors, and an Alexandria winner underscores the city’s growing reputation as a dining destination. The recognition reflects the hard work and hospitality that Alexandria’s food-and-beverage community brings to the table every day.

From a nationally recognized student filmmaker to an award-winning restaurant professional, Alexandria is proving that homegrown talent — at every age — continues to shine.

Sources: thezebra.org, Patch