Kuna Youth Awards 2024

2024 Awardees

Stesi David

Stesi David exemplifies resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence, characteristics that make her an outstanding recipient for the Mayor’s Youth Awards. In 2021, Stesi David and her family arrived in the U.S. as refugees, having lived across various African nations. Adapting to new environments was part of her journey, and during that time, Stesi attended schools in several different countries and studied in different languages. Today she is fluent in five languages and finishing high school with a 3.6 GPA, even though just three years ago, Stesi had never used English as an academic language. This achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication. Stesi's story is one of overcoming significant obstacles through sheer perseverance and a positive attitude. Her educational accomplishments and multilingual abilities not only set her apart but also serve as an inspiring example of what young individuals can achieve with determination and support.

Michael McBride

Michael McBride is a shining example of commitment to community service.  He consistently steps up to help his Kuna community be better by volunteering. Throughout the year, Michael has been a prominent volunteer at various community events, demonstrating his dedication and genuine compassion. Michael has contributed his time and efforts to two Trunk or Treat events, has served at the Kiwanis Spaghetti Feed to raise fund for the Ross Pantry and was even pied over 30 times at the Indian Creek Carnival. Michael’s relentless service and cheerful energy make him an outstanding recipient of the Mayor’s Youth Awards. 

Chloe Mesa

Chloe Mesa is a remarkable young individual whose resilience and determination to overcome adversity make her an exceptional recipient of the Mayor’s Youth Awards. Despite facing significant personal challenges at a young age, Chloe has not only persevered but excelled academically and socially. Chloe achievements at Fremont Middle School are numerous; she has been an honor society member, recognized for her academic excellence, and is a talented musician who plays the flute, piccolo, and saxophone, the latter two of which she learned on her own. Chloe is very active in sports, including volleyball and tennis, showcasing her well-rounded character and eagerness to embrace new challenges. In addition to her school activities, Chloe is deeply involved in her community, regularly volunteering at the orchards in Caldwell each season picking pears and apples, and peaches. Chloe is also a leader in her church’s youth group, where her positive attitude and willingness to help others have made her a role model for her peers. She is excited about going into high school and joining the Marching Band. 

Camryn See

Camryn See is an excellent young individual whose resilience and commitment to her education make her a standout recipient for the Mayor’s Youth Awards. She is an inspiring example of overcoming hardships while working hard and keeping a positive attitude. Despite facing significant health challenges this school year that made her miss a great deal of class time, Camryn demonstrated exceptional dedication to her academic responsibilities. Camryn checked in weekly with each teacher to make sure she was on track with her distance learning assignments and actively reached out when she had questions, needed clarification or that extra help needed to ensure she did not fall behind. As Camryn returned to school, she has been an inspiration and example to other students about staying positive and working hard. Her ability to navigate difficulties with grace and determination while supporting others showcases her as a truly inspiring young individual.