Spirit of Youth

Alden King, an eleventh grader at Steller Secondary School, exemplifies the transformative power of youth leadership through his passion for education and literacy. His most notable achievement is the expansion of the library at Kiaoni Day/Boarding School in Kenya, where he provided early reader books and textbooks to foster literacy and academic success among young learners. Alden’s initiative reflects his ability to turn vision into action, as he navigated complex logistics, mobilized resources, and collaborated with international partners to address educational disparities in underserved communities.

Despite facing challenges such as cultural differences and limited resources, Alden’s resilience and commitment to his mission have made a tangible impact. His youth-led project not only empowers students in Kenya but also inspires his peers in Anchorage to believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. Alden’s leadership, empathy, and determination embody the Spirit of Youth’s mission, making him a powerful role model and a driving force for global progress in education.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Ander is a talented and dedicated youth leader actively involved in his school and community. He served as King in the 2023 4th of July royalty competition and starred as the Prince in a local production of Cinderella. As a member of the T3 tech club, Ander helped design and install the remote camera system at Annan, supported the 2024 Capitol Christmas Tree selection with drone technology, and contributed to the tree misting system. He also attended the Capitol Christmas Tree receptions and ceremony in Washington, DC.

Ander is a skilled musician, singing in the school choir and playing saxophone in the band and pep band. He volunteers in the Harbor Light media booth, co-hosts radio programs on KSTK, and works with Alaska Vistas during the summer. His passion for engineering and problem-solving shines through his work on community-focused projects like the Annan wildlife cameras, which benefit Wrangell’s tourism and promote national exposure for the region’s wildlife. A natural leader, Ander collaborates well with both peers and adults, consistently demonstrating initiative and teamwork.

• Home Town Wrangell
• School District Wrangell Public School District
• Award Category Innovator, Role Model

Jasmine Yang is a dedicated leader in her church’s Hmong youth group and a passionate advocate for cultural preservation and community service. She has served on a mission assisting Navajo elders in Washington and Oregon and actively supports the younger Hmong generation by teaching the significance of their heritage and language. Jasmine also contributes to her community by providing food to the homeless, preparing boxes for families in need, and volunteering at Beans Cafe to bring joy to children and youth.

Her efforts extend to environmental initiatives, including participating in spring clean-up events to reduce litter in her community. Jasmine emphasizes the importance of education in preserving cultural roots and encourages youth to stay connected to their heritage while striving for success. She exemplifies the values of leadership, compassion, and dedication to making a positive impact.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District ASD
• Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

The Hutchison Stream Team, a student-led club at Hutchison High School, produces professional-quality live events, including sports, concerts, and graduations, for audiences worldwide. Using advanced production equipment like multi-camera switchboards, instant replay, and live announcers, they have streamed over 500 events since 2009, becoming Alaska’s first high school to live-stream events. Their work has supported athletes seeking college recruitment, captured meaningful moments like the International Cross Country Ski Championships and graduations, and provided free, high-quality streams accessible to everyone.

The team’s dedication has created significant opportunities for members, with alumni gaining internships and careers at prestigious organizations like NBC. Despite the growing trend of pay-per-view streaming, Hutchison Stream Team remains committed to offering free access to their high-caliber productions. Their passion, teamwork, and innovation make them a vital part of the community and a model for youth-led initiatives.

• Home Town Fairbanks
• School District FNSBSD
• Award Category Innovator, Dreamer

Samaya and Elizabeth are working with the Copper River Watershed Project to improve recycling in Cordova. Collaborating with local organizations, they’ve implemented aluminum can recycling initiatives and promoted awareness through newspaper articles, flyers, and outreach at school events. They also teach 5th graders about healthy watersheds and salmon life cycles through programs like Salmon in the Classroom and activities supporting the Capital Christmas Tree project.

Their efforts help extend the lifespan of Cordova’s landfill and reduce waste from discarded fishing gear. By engaging younger students, they inspire the next generation to protect salmon habitats and show that youth-led actions make a meaningful impact. Samaya and Elizabeth are role models for community involvement and environmental stewardship.

• Home Town Cordova
• School District Cordova School District
• Award Category Humanitarian

Mo Spooner attended the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) 2024 convention and created a heartfelt short film documenting his experience and its significance as an Indigenous youth. The video highlights the stories and cultural elements showcased at AFN, with Mo sharing his feelings about the positive impact events like AFN have on his life. Mo’s reflections emphasize how gatherings like AFN help Indigenous youth connect with their heritage, embrace their community, heal generational trauma, and feel empowered to actively contribute. Mo’s transparency, vulnerability, intelligence, and compassion shine through, illustrating the profound importance of celebrating culture and heritage. His film beautifully captures the human impact of AFN and other Indigenous-led initiatives.

Watch Video:https://youtu.be/ZOcEwiQCG-8

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District ANCHORAGE SCHOOL DISTRICT
• Award Category Dreamer

Emmerson Kapp, a junior at Soldotna High School, leads with passion as the KPBSD Board of Education Student Representative. She represents students from 42 schools, gathering their input and sharing updates with the board. At meetings, she delivers reports and casts an advisory vote, ensuring student voices influence decisions.

Emmerson inspires peers to speak at board meetings, amplifying their perspectives. Her efforts promote collaboration, inclusivity, and student engagement. Through her advocacy, Emmerson is transforming her district to better meet students’ needs.

• Home Town Soldotna
• School District Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
• Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Dustty is a dedicated and active member of his community. As a camp den leader and welding instructor with Scouts of America, he has helped Scouts achieve merit badges while fostering their growth and skills. His volunteer efforts span numerous organizations, including The Salvation Army Operation Santa, the Fur Rondy Royalty Pageant, and the American Heart Association-Alaska.

Dustty’s willingness to help, no matter the task, has been evident since he was young. His commitment and enthusiasm make him a valued contributor to every project he undertakes. Through his work, Dustty continues to make a meaningful impact on those around him.

• Home Town EAGLE RIVER
• School District Healey school district
• Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Joshua is a dedicated youth leader and advocate. As the Student Advisory Board President for the Anchorage School District, he represents all students in the district. He also serves as Bar President of Anchorage Youth Court and Section 8 Representative on the National Federation of High Schools National Student Advisory Council. His impressive resume highlights his commitment to civic engagement and student representation across Anchorage and Alaska.

Joshua has been a long-standing member of the Spirit of Youth Teen Advisory Council. He approaches every project with ambition, compassion, and purpose. His leadership on youth-led initiatives amplifies student voices and drives meaningful change. Known for his kindness and integrity, Joshua inspires others while building strong connections within his community.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

At just 12 years old, Dalton has shown incredible dedication to his community, particularly through his work with The Alaska Humane Society. Since he was 10, he has volunteered weekly to clean the shelter and care for the cats, raising over $6,000 to support their needs. His efforts include fundraising and assisting in building individual cat apartments. Dalton also helps at his former school, Bear Valley, where he supports teachers and recently testified twice to advocate against its closure. He has forgone birthday presents for shelter donations, led holiday efforts for the animals, and is planning a 2025 food drive. Dalton’s compassion and leadership inspire others to take action and make a difference.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Michael is a highly motivated youth with strong ties to Anchorage and Southeast Alaska. He actively participates in ANSEP, the CITC FabLab internship, and Civil Air Patrol. In Civil Air Patrol, he mentors new cadets, teaching leadership, character development, and fitness while advancing through the program. As Cadet Aerospace Education Officer, he finds creative ways to spark interest in STEM among his peers. Michael also planned and spoke at the Central Council Tlingit and Haida Youth Healing Summit. He worked with the Alaska Youth Stewards Program to promote cultural and environmental resilience. His dedication and leadership make him an outstanding role model.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Role Model

Mika is a dedicated high school student whose passion for helping others is evident in her impactful projects. As a freshman, she organized a month-long School Community Book Drive, collecting over 900 books for the Fairbanks Literacy Council to promote literacy and encourage community involvement. Mika handled every detail, from creating fliers to coordinating collections.

As a sophomore, Mika co-led the Sources of Strength Club and hosted a movie night fundraiser for the local Women’s Shelter. The event brought the community together, collecting essential items like hats and toiletries for women in need. Mika’s compassion and dedication make her a powerful advocate for positive change.

• Home Town Fairbanks
• School District FNSBSD
• Award Category Humanitarian

Daniel is an extraordinary youth leader making a profound impact on his community. He has spearheaded various initiatives, including reforesting the Amazon Rainforest, serving as a soup kitchen volunteer, and working as a pro-bono dialect coach for Anchorage community theatre actors. However, his most inspiring accomplishment is his unwavering support for neurodivergent youth in Anchorage’s theatre community.

Daniel has acted as a mentor, advocate, and emotional support for a young autistic actor, helping him succeed in theater despite significant challenges. He rearranged his own commitments to provide individualized backstage support, enabling the actor to perform confidently and achieve his dreams. Daniel’s efforts have sparked conversations within the theatre community about creating inclusive spaces for neurodivergent participants and inspired further initiatives to support young people with diverse needs. His creativity, dedication, and advocacy demonstrate his exceptional leadership and compassion.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Phoenix, Role Model

Jusse’ll Watkins-Roberton exemplifies resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Despite social anxiety, she has participated in events like the Disability Awareness Art Show and her high school’s winter bazaar, confidently selling her original crochet art. Her thoughtful pricing and customer engagement highlight her maturity and determination.

Using creativity as a tool for emotional regulation, Jusse’ll repurposes yarn, including materials from her great-grandmother, to craft unique and imaginative pieces. By sharing her art and openly discussing the challenges of anxiety, she inspires others to take risks and embrace growth. With plans to establish an online shop and save for the future, Jusse’ll is a model of grit, resilience, and authentic living.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Visionary

The Dimond Green Effects NOAA Ocean Guardian Club has made a significant environmental impact, removing over 1,400 pounds of marine debris from Prince William Sound and over 1,000 pounds of trash from their campus. They successfully advocated for a community recycling trailer, maintain a robust school recycling program, and educate peers on responsible consumption and marine conservation.

The club also engages younger students through coral reef tank tours and inspires sustainable action by turning ocean plastics into lumber. Their efforts align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #12 and #14, and graduating members proudly wear emerald green cords to celebrate their contributions.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Humanitarian, Discovery

Abigail is a leader and role model in her community and a member of the Youth Alliance for a Healthier Alaska (YAHA), where she provides thoughtful feedback to improve youth-focused public health initiatives. As sophomore class president and junior Region 2 Representative for the Alaska Association of Student Governments, she organizes fundraisers, advocates for peers, and promotes student engagement. Abigail also runs an after-school basketball camp for younger students and volunteers at community events like swap meets and school tournaments. Her efforts create meaningful opportunities for connection and growth, fostering a supportive environment and inspiring youth in her rural community.

• Home Town Denali Park
• School District Denali Borough School District
• Award Category Role Model

Kanna is a dynamic youth leader and co-founder of The Lynx Initiative (TLI), which gives Anchorage middle school students early access to STEM programs. Through TLI, she helps young students explore science and technology. Kanna also supports environmental conservation, joining beach clean-ups with the Ocean Club and promoting sustainability with Dimond’s Green Effects. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines in her creation of 3D-printed items, which she sells to fund TLI. Kanna’s dedication to STEM, environmental advocacy, and fundraising shows her strong commitment to making a positive impact in her community.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Role Model, Discovery

Hunter, president of Dimond Robotics, has expanded STEM access for Anchorage youth. He has volunteered over 120 hours this year, mentoring multiple FIRST LEGO League teams. Hunter co-founded The Lynx Initiative (TLI) to create robotics programs for underserved students. As the youngest board member of the Alaska Museum of Science & Nature, he champions youth-led initiatives in STEM. His leadership helps Anchorage youth gain confidence and engage with STEM. Hunter’s work creates a supportive environment where students grow and realize their potential.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Humanitarian, Innovator

Nikkeah is a dedicated and generous member of the Indigenous Club, where she actively engages in learning and sharing about various Indigenous cultures, languages, arts, and songs. Known for her positivity and willingness to support her peers, she embodies a strong work ethic and a commitment to her community. In the club, Nikkeah participates in important discussions on issues like Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, showing a deep understanding of the importance of awareness and education around this sensitive topic. Her dedication makes her an inspiring role model within the club and beyond.

• Home Town Eagle river
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Role Model

Dimond Robotics, a student-led team from Dimond High School, is transforming STEM access in Anchorage through The Lynx Initiative (TLI). Recognizing disparities in STEM opportunities, they developed TLI to make hands-on learning and robotics teams accessible to underserved youth. Hunter and Kanna, the driving force behind TLI, spent months researching STEM access gaps and started programs at Mountain View Elementary to reach kids who might not otherwise have this opportunity. Their efforts have grown from one community team to three, mentoring younger students and securing funding for sustainability. These programs not only teach robotics but also promote teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional resilience. The success of their mentorship includes Mountain View Elementary receiving the Breakthrough Award for their “Stuck Duck” project. Hunter and Kanna’s leadership and dedication are empowering Anchorage youth and reshaping the future of STEM access in the community.

• Home Town Anchorage
• School District Anchorage School District
• Award Category Innovator, Role Model