Spirit of Youth

Heather published a book called “Hidden Voice: A Story of Discovering Strengths,” about helping youth build self esteem and deal with bullies and negative comments. She is a delegate to the People to People Ambassador Program, member of the National Association of Professional Women and an instructor at this year’s Alaska Young Writers Conference. She has been a driving force of inspiration and encouragement to her peers.

• Home Town Wasilla
• School District Mat-Su Borough School District
• Award Category Business & Government

Michael Bialy, Emily Berryman, Tony Boyer and Tandy Vangtan created the Bethel P.R.I.D.E. dance group last summer. The group performs and sponsors healthy events, lead by example and send a strong message to their peers that it’s ok to be expressive and to take pride in yourself and others. This team of self-motivated teens spent a summer fundraising, recruiting and defining what Bethel P.R.I.D.E. is all about so their new tradition can spread to other rural parts of Alaska.

• Home Town Bethel
• School District Lower Kuskokwim School District
• Award Category Fine Arts

Leila is an active member of Alaska Youth for Environmental Action. She is a leader in the Kodiak Youth Conservation Corps and is dedicated to educating youth about recycling, climate change, marine debris and other conservation topics.

• Home Town Kodiak
• School District Reed College
• Award Category Science & Environment

Jessica provides swift water training to emergency personnel in Kenai’s community fire departments. She sponsored a fundraiser to train emergency personnel involved in rescue work. Her contribution will benefit people who might find themselves in need of rescue on Kenai’s waterways.

• Home Town Kenai
• School District Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
• Award Category Lifesaver & Prevention

Annie created, organized and hosted Ski-for-Aid, a 5k race to benefit Brother Francis Shelter. She singlehandedly organized the event and spent countless hours advertising and gathering support from local businesses for donated prizes. The race had 26 participants and raised $550 for the shelter.

• Home Town Chugiak
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Service To Community