Waukegan Brothers Earn Gold at NAACP ACT-SO Competition, Advance to Next Level

Waukegan, IL — Two local brothers are being recognized for their talent, discipline, and academic excellence after earning top honors at a prestigious regional competition.

Tre Johnson and Josh Johnson, both of Waukegan, recently secured gold medals at the NAACP Lake County Branch ACT-SO competition. Their achievement highlights not only their individual dedication, but also the growing presence of young talent emerging from the Waukegan community.

The ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics) program is a nationally recognized initiative designed to celebrate and develop the academic and creative abilities of high school students. Participants compete across a wide range of disciplines, including science, the arts, and humanities.

By earning gold at the regional level, Tre and Josh Johnson have qualified to advance to the next stage of competition, where they will represent Lake County on a larger platform among other top-performing students from across the country.

Their accomplishment stands as a reflection of perseverance, creativity, and commitment—qualities that continue to shape the next generation of leaders. Beyond bringing home gold medals, the brothers have also brought pride to Waukegan, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a place where young excellence thrives.

As they prepare for the next phase, the community now looks ahead with anticipation, supporting the brothers as they carry Waukegan’s name onto a broader stage.