On Friday July 11th, the Riverside County Workforce Development Board honored ten remarkable young individuals during the 2025 Jamil Dada Character Excellence Youth Awards, held at the March Field Air Museum. This inspirational event celebrated Riverside County youth who have demonstrated unwavering resilience and exemplary character in the face of life's toughest challenges. Congratulations to the 2025 award recipients:

•          Kayla Cunningham – Hemet Youth Opportunity Center

•          Jayden Cheatham – Indio Youth Opportunity Center

•          Edgard Prieto-Gutierrez – Lake Elsinore Youth Opportunity Center

•          Yasmin Cifuente Aguilar – Lake Elsinore Youth Opportunity Center

•          Alvaro Ramirez – Moreno Valley Youth Opportunity Center

•          Salem Ziemer – Moreno Valley Youth Opportunity Center

•          Molly Orozco – Perris Youth Opportunity Center

•          Olivia Gutierrez – Perris Youth Opportunity Center

•          Kimiko Jackson – Rubidoux Youth Opportunity Center

•          Levenia Rose Velasco – Rubidoux Youth Opportunity Center

Each honoree received a $2,500 educational scholarship, a commemorative trophy, legislative certificates, and formal recognition at the ceremony. Despite facing deeply personal and, at times, heartbreaking adversity, these young leaders have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to earning a high school diploma or pursuing higher education. A panel of evaluators selected awardees based on their embodiment of at least two of the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

“These ten extraordinary young people remind us that character is not built in comfort—it’s forged in adversity. Their stories reflect the heart of Riverside County: resilient, compassionate, and determined to rise. We are proud to celebrate their courage and commitment to excellence, and we look forward to the impact they will make as leaders of tomorrow.” — Jamil Dada, Chair, Riverside County Workforce Development Board.

The ceremony was elevated by guest speaker Kenjon Barner, who delivered a powerful and heartfelt keynote. A three-time Super Bowl champion, Barner has played for several NFL teams including the Carolina Panthers, Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His collegiate football career at the University of Oregon was distinguished by All-American honors, underscoring his talent and dedication. A Moreno Valley native, Barner attended Notre Dame High School, where he played under head coach Patrick Thompson for the Notre Dame Titans.

Guiding the evening’s proceedings was Leticia Juarez, reporter for ABC7 Eyewitness News, who served as Master of Ceremonies with poise and enthusiasm, lending an uplifting and memorable tone to the celebration.

 Named in honor of Jamil Dada, a dedicated youth advocate at the local, state, and federal levels, the Jamil Dada Character Excellence Youth Awards Program celebrates young individuals who demonstrate resilience and strong character. Mr. Dada currently serves as Chair of the Riverside County Workforce Development Board and has been a longstanding member of both the California Workforce Development Board and the National Association of Workforce Boards, having previously chaired both boards.

 The annual event and accompanying scholarships are made possible through generous contributions from the Dada Endowment Fund, local businesses, community partners, nonprofit organizations, and net proceeds from ticket sales. For more information or to donate, please contact Riverside County Works, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit affiliated with the Riverside County Workforce Development Board, at [email protected].