​Are you a high school student striving to make a difference in the community? Or do you know a high school student who goes above and beyond in community service? The City of Phoenix Youth and Education Office is now accepting applications for the 2024 Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year awards.

This special awards ceremony recognizes and honors the outstanding achievements of young people, enhancing the perception of youth and raising community awareness of their positive contributions.

“The Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader Award has long- lasting impact,” says Youth and Education director Tim Valencia. “Knowing that the money awarded to these amazing teens allows them to further their education and continue to make a difference is why this program is so essential to Phoenix youth.”

Each year, 2 high school students from each of the City’s eight Council districts are selected as winners and recognized, along with the teacher who inspired them the most, at an event where each student receives a $500 prize! From those district winners, 2 “overall/city-wide” winners are selected and will be awarded an additional $1,500 (for a total of $2,000 each), along with a scholarship to attend Anytown Leadership Camp (a $600 value) in Prescott, AZ.

“The award helped me pay for my first year of college,” says Ameerah Battle, a previous top prize award recipient. “To me, this award meant a tremendous accomplishment. It showcased my dedication to my hometown and community through service and leadership.”

Here’s how it works:

•  The program is open to any student currently enrolled in high school in Phoenix or who lives within Phoenix city limits.
• Students interested in applying will need to write an essay and submit a recommendation letter and proof of U.S. legal residency.
• Finalists will be interviewed by members of the community.

Winners from each council district, and the citywide Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leaders of the Year, will be recognized at a luncheon sponsored by Rotary 100 and Salt River Project (SRP), as well as in City publicity materials. District winners will also have an opportunity to participate in future citywide programs and special appearances to promote community initiatives.

The application closes Friday, February 23, 2024.

For more information, visit: Outstanding Youth(phoenix​.gov)