Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson poses with a group of honorees at the 2025 Most Remarkable Teens ceremony, held at Riverside City Hall. The annual program, now in its 22nd year, recognizes outstanding youth ages 14-18 from high schools across the city. (Courtesy of the Office of Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson)
The Riverside Youth Council is accepting nominations through April 3 for the 2026 "Most Remarkable Teens," with a recognition ceremony set for 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 12.
The program recognizes Riverside youth ages 14-18 for excellence in academics, athletics, arts and culture, community involvement, leadership, courage in overcoming adversity and acts of valor.
Currently mentored through the Johnny Martin Sotelo Youth Opportunity Center and the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, the Riverside Youth Council was established in 2004 by the Mayor, City Council and Riverside Police Department to give young people a voice in civic life and public policy. Last year's 25 honorees came from 10 high schools across the city.
"What makes Riverside so special is our people," Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson told the Gazette. "Academic and athletic achievements are important, but some of the most powerful stories come from courage, resilience, and a willingness to help others. By recognizing those experiences, we're celebrating the character and perseverance that define so many of our youth and encouraging them to continue making a positive impact in our community."
The nomination categories reflect that philosophy. When the Youth Council was established, Lock Dawson said, "the goal was to create a space where high school students could actively participate in civic life."
Anyone can nominate a student, including coaches, teachers, counselors or community members. For families weighing whether to submit a nomination, Lock Dawson offered this: "Sometimes that recognition is all it takes to remind a young person that their hard work, resilience, and leadership truly matter."
The ceremony will also be streamed live via Facebook and RiversideTV for those unable to attend in person.
More information: Nomination forms are available at surveymonkey.com. The ceremony will be held at Riverside City Hall, 3900 Main Street. For assistance, contact the Youth Opportunity Center at (951) 826-2272.
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