It's not every day you get a second chance to celebrate the youth in your community, but Hillsborough County is offering just that by extending the nomination deadline for the 2025 Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards). Originally set to close on August 15. Those looking to nominate outstanding middle and high school students in the Hillsborough area now have until September 17 to submit their choices. The awards, which cover a range of categories from leadership to community service, shine a light on the exceptional young individuals who strive to make a difference in their community.
According to HCFL.gov, the YEA! Awards aim to recognize students who are not just excelling academically or in extracurricular programs, but those who are also leading their peers with 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Recognitions are up for grabs for students who have overcome difficult odds to make a positive impact on others, and those who have dedicated substantial time to serving their community. Resilience, dedication, and a commitment to the greater good are the hallmarks of the YEA! Award nominees.
The process to nominate these young leaders and change-makers is straightforward. Nominations can be submitted through an online form, which is reviewed by the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women. Founded in 2010, the YEA! Awards not only applaud young students for their spirit of initiative, but also innovation and a commitment to themselves and others in various areas including athletics, conservation, or the performing arts.
