Local teens honored during the Spirit of Youth Awards

Recently, several teens and youth groups from across Alaska were honored as recipients of the Spirit of Youth Awards, which recognizes those who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to their communities.

The Spirit of Youth Awards highlight dedicated young people and unsung heroes from around Alaska, honoring their hard work and efforts. Winners and runners-up were honored during a ceremony on April 13, 2024, where they shared their stories of courage, inspiration, and innovation.

Locally, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, three were recognized as either winners or runners-up in different categories.

Josephine “Josie” Herbert of Wasilla was selected to receive a Spirit of Youth Phoenix Award. The Phoenix Award recognizes youth who display exceptional determination and perseverance as they overcome significant life challenges.

Herbert, who attends Colony High School, has volunteered for multiple fundraising efforts across Southcentral Alaska. Herbert won the title of Miss Alaska High School, and part of her platform has been as a pillar of hope to girls who might feel alone as they navigate through the emotions of being a teenager or subjected to a bad situation.

Other area students were recognized, including Ben Kolendo, who was named runner up for the Role Model Award, which recognizes those who lend a helping hand to peers and younger youth in their community. Kolendo was nominated for his work as the Student Advisory Representative of the Mat-Su School District School Board. “In this role, he is an outstanding example to his peers. In 2023, the school board voted to remove the student representative’s ability to offer student input. Despite this, Ben has continued to represent his fellow students in a respectful courteous manner.”

Sahara Brentor from Trapper Creek was also a runner up for the Innovator Award after she joined the Trapper Creek Community Council to represent the youth of the community and participate in local governmental activities. Brentor developed summer Saturday sports events that hosted both youth and adults to engage in physical activities such as softball, Frisbee, and volleyball. In addition, she, along with her family baked or purchased items to sell to participants.

The Innovator Award shines the spotlight on the efforts of youth who have shown excellence in the fields of math, science and engineering through research, study, or improvement in their community.

“I a super grateful to have received runner-up for the Role Model Award. I believe elevating you voices and recognizing driven young people are crucial in all communities across Alaska. It’s truly disheartening to see a lack of both in the Mat-Su community this past year,” said Kolendo.

Recipients were chosen by the Spirit of Youth Teen Advisory Council. Individual recipients will receive a college savings scholarship account from Alaska 529, while groups selected will receive a grant for their project. Sponsors of the Spirit of Youth Awards include: Alaska Airlines, Alaska Children’s Trust, Alaska 529, Altman, Rogers & Co, Atwood Foundation, ENSTAR Natural Gas, Nick Begich Scholarship Intern Fund, and Recover Alaska.

To read more about the recipients, please visit www.spiritofyouth.org/programs/positive-media-recognition-campaign/award-recipients