Youth producers from the Alaska Teen Media Institute contacted the 2024 Spirit of Youth Awards recipients to record their radio stories. The awards honor teens across the state for the excellent work they do in their communities.

The Spirit of Youth Awards, now in its 27th year, honors dedicated young people and unsung heroes from Alaska. The awards recognize the hard work and efforts of these young leaders, who use this opportunity to share their inspiring and heartwarming stories.

Thank you to the Alaska Teen Media Institute for creating these radio stories!

01 Visionary Award – Jack Boelens—Aniak

 

Boelens started his own entrepreneurial venture to reach his financial goals. 

Written and reported by Logan Ehrhart, Dimond High School

 

02 Humanitarian Award – Lily Gosnell—Ketchikan

 

Gosnell serves her community of Ketchikan through several youth and community programs.

Written by Taylor Heckart, University of Alaska Anchorage 

Reported by Ormund Alaois, Alaska Teen Media Institute

 

03 Phoenix Award – Josephine Herbert—Ketchikan

 

Despite a traumatic start in life, Herbert gives back to her community.

Written by Tukaan Dan, Outer Coast College

Reported by Ian Perales, Dimond High School

04 Innovator Award – Evelyn Mills—Fairbanks

 

Mills took the lead to revive the chess playing community in Fairbanks. 

Written by Taylor Heckart, University of Alaska Anchorage

Reported by Grace Post, West Anchorage High School

05 Role Model Award – Anika Biss—Anchorage

 

Biss serves as a role model in a variety of community activities.

Written and reported by Ormund Alaois, Alaska Teen Media Institute

06 Discovery Award – Dimond NOAA Ocean Guardians—Anchorage

 

Dimond High School students conduct remote beach cleanups. 

Written and reported by Taylor Heckart, University of Alaska Anchorage

07 Dreamer Award – Sara DeVolld—Soldotna

 

DeVolld combines her work in STEM and the arts to inspire youth to pursue multiple interests. 

Written and reported by Kaylee LaTocha, Alaska Teen Media Institute

08 Life Saver Award – Madeleine Reckmeyer—Anchorage

 

Reckmeyer works to make sure all youth in her community thrive.

Written and reported by Taylor Kamrath, University of Alaska Fairbanks