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—Mat-Su Borough
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
Dimond High School students conduct remote beach cleanups.
Written and reported by Taylor Heckart, University of Alaska Anchorage
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