The Eagle Scout rank is the highest honour awarded by Scouts America and is earned by only about 4% of Scouts after completing years of leadership, community service and skill development.
A Historic Achievement
Costa, an incoming senior at Stow-Munroe Falls High School in Ohio, received the Eagle Scout rank in December 2025.
According to the Great Trail Council, she is the first Sri Lankan-American girl known to have achieved the honour.
She was also among 169 young people who earned the Eagle Scout rank across several counties served by the council during 2025.
A Journey of Leadership
Costa joined Cub Scouts in 2018, the same year girls were first allowed to participate in the programme.
To earn the Eagle Scout rank, she completed a demanding review process, earned 21 merit badges, served in leadership roles and demonstrated the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
Today, she mentors younger Scouts as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster and Den Chief, helping develop the next generation of Scout leaders.
Proud of Her Sri Lankan Heritage
Costa’s parents moved to the United States from Sri Lanka in 2007, and she says her heritage remains an important part of her life.
She has visited Sri Lanka several times and, during a trip in 2023, met local Scout groups to learn about their activities and share experiences.
She believes the values of Scouting connect young people across cultures despite their different backgrounds.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Reflecting on her achievement, Costa said she hopes becoming the first Sri Lankan-American female Eagle Scout will encourage more young Sri Lankan girls to pursue the same goal.
She also plans to attend university after high school and is considering a career in the medical field.
Editor’s Insight
Achievements like this extend beyond individual success. They showcase how young people of Sri Lankan heritage continue to excel internationally while inspiring future generations to pursue leadership, service and excellence.
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Last modified: July 13, 2026
