For the 20 Year Anniversary of the Spirit of Youth Awards, we reconnected with past honorees to find out how recognition influenced them as youth and, later, as adults.
Verner Wilson—Originally from Dillingham, now lives in Anchorage / Seattle
In 2004, Verner Wilson was recognized for promoting environmental protection, voicing the effects military contamination was having on St. Lawrence Island.
Story By Danielle DuClos, Dimond High School
Tim Blevans—Originally from Fairbanks, now lives in Anchorage
In 2006, Tim Blevans was recognized for his work at Joel’s Place, a Christian skate park in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Story By Quinn White, West High School
Nick Moe—Anchorage
In 2006, 19-year-old Nick Moe ran as the youngest candidate for Mayor of Anchorage.
Story By Quinn White, West High School
Loki Tobin—Originally from Nome, now lives in Anchorage
In 2002, Loki Tobin was recognized for organizing a conference for Arctic youth.
Story By Cornilius Nelson, Bartlett High School (Danielle DuClos, Dimond High School contributed to this story.)
Harrison Jennings—Anchorage
In 2013, Harrison Jennings, a budding Alaska musician, received a Spirit of Youth award for his community involvement and passionate pursuit of a career in music.
Story By Olive Spohnholz-Johnson, West High School
Haley Nelson—Originally from Juneau, now lives in Fairbanks
In 2008, Haley was recognized for creating an art show with first graders in her hometown of Juneau.
Story By Danielle DuClos, Dimond High School
Erik Braund—Originally from Anchorage, now lives in Brooklyn
In 2004,19-year-old Erik was recognized by Spirit of Youth for entrepreneurship. He owned a small recording studio in Anchorage, which he started at just 17-years-old.
Story By Ezra Dan, West Anchorage High School
Debra (Naaqtuuq) Dommek Robertson—Originally from Kotzebue, now lives in Anchorage
Inspired to create a safe and welcoming environment for teens to connect to their native cultures, in 2004, Debra introduced her school to a group that focused on spreading cultural awareness.
Story By Olive Spohnholz-Johnson, West High School