Hillsborough County, Fla. (Oct. 21, 2026) - The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners recognized five outstanding young people Wednesday, Oct. 21, as the Board presented its Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards) during its regular meeting.
The YEA! Awards recognize middle school and high school students in Hillsborough County who display initiative, innovation, and commitment to themselves and others, while pursuing leadership excellence.
YEA! Awards categories:
- Leadership - This award recognizes students who have demonstrated 21st Century skills including: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity in how they led others academically, in extracurricular programs, or in service to the community.
- Success Despite Difficult Odds - This award recognizes students who have persevered through challenges to make a positive impact on others.
- Volunteer or Community Service - This award recognizes students who have dedicated substantial time to serving their community.
This year's YEA! Awards recipients are:
Leadership
- Vanshika Prabhu, Roland Park K-8 Magnet School
- Arman Ahluwalia, Hillsborough High School IB
Volunteer or Community Service
- Amelia Dashner, Martinez Middle School
- Zach Hartman, Sickles High School
Success Despite Difficult Odds
- Kelsie Meister, Sickles High School
About the YEA! Awards
The YEA! Awards were created in 2010 to recognize Hillsborough County students for making a difference in their community. Students honored show initiative, innovation, and a commitment to themselves and others, while pursuing excellence in a leadership capacity. This can be demonstrated in academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation, or other areas.
For information on the YEA! Awards, visit HCFL.gov/YEA.