Sen. Gittens Partners with “I Am Hope Foundation”
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
M.A. Dworkin
St. Croix - Senate Vice President Kenneth L. Gittens announced that he is proud to partner with the “I Am Hope Foundation,” in celebrating the achievements of St. Croix’s youth at the inaugural St. Croix Youth Hope Awards, which are scheduled to take place at Teddy’s in Christiansted on February 28, 2026.
This marks the first time the Hope Awards will be held on St. Croix. The Youth Hope Awards celebrate children and young people whose extraordinary efforts, strong character, and positive community impact deserve recognition. The awards honor youth who exemplify perseverance, leadership, responsibility, and commitment to uplifting others.
2026 St. Croix Hope Award Honorees:
Kaela Vialet - HOPE AWARD Educational Complex
K’Asia O’Bryan - ROLE MODEL AWARD Educational Complex
Micaiah Jones - COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD Central High School
Israel Popo - LEADERSHIP AWARD Central High School
Jamal Rogers Jr. - YOUTH INSPIRE AWARD Ricardo Richards Elementary
Je’Talia Hanley - YOUTH EXCELLENCE AWARD Alfredo Andrews Elementary School
Marley Robinson - YOUTH IMPACT AWARD Ricardo Richards Elementary
Daryl Griffith II - TRAILBLAZER AWARD Educational Complex
Juliett & Gracie Reid Ventura - ENTREPRENEUR AWARD Seventh-day Adventist School
Linroy Forde - OUTSTANDING YOUTH AWARD Educational Complex
The Youth Hope Awards were funded by Dr. Teshanne Phillip, a native of St. John and Founder of the “I Am Hope Foundation.” For the past seven years, Dr. Phillip has successfully hosted the Hope Awards in the St.Thomas-St. John District, recognizing outstanding young leaders and changemakers throughout the Territory. Senator Gittens expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the celebration to St. Croix where he became the Premier Sponsor.
“At a time when negativity often dominates the conversation, this is an opportunity to shine a light on our best and brightest,” said Senator Gittens. “Our young people are accomplishing remarkable things, and deserve to be celebrated. I encourage the entire community to join me in supporting and uplifting these exceptional honorees.”