The Phoenix Youth and Education Office is accepting applications for the 2023 Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year awards.

The awards honor the achievements of young people, “enhance the perception of youth and raise community awareness of their positive contributions,” a city release stated.

“The Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader Award has long-lasting impacts. 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," Tim Valencia, youth education director, said.

“The award helped me pay for my first year of college. To me, this award meant a tremendous accomplishment. It showcased my dedication to my hometown/community through service and leadership," Ameerah Battle, 2017 overall district winner, said.

She was awarded $2,000 for her leadership in her community. Since then, she graduated with a bachelor of science degree in biology and is pursuing her master's in public health to become a physician and work in health policy, according to the release.

“It allowed me to chase my dreams of graduating from Howard University, become a Fulbright Scholar, and pursue my master's in public health at Brown University. This award was a steppingstone to strive and continue for greatness. I am forever grateful."

The program is open to any students  enrolled in high school in Phoenix or who live within Phoenix city limits:

• Two students will be selected as winners from each City Council district and receive an award of $500.
• In addition, each district-level winner will be eligible for an additional $1,500 award if they are selected as the citywide winners.

Students interested in applying need to write an essay and submit a recommendation letter and proof of legal residence in the United States.

Finalists will be interviewed by members of the community.

District award winners will be invited to a luncheon sponsored by Rotary 100 and Salt River Project where the citywide award winners will be announced.

Eligible students can apply online before 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24. For more: https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/education/2585