By: Camille Hu
The CYOC Youth Spotlight Award Ceremony is a special event where we celebrate the dedication of youth, our future, and honor the work they have done. It is a gathering that highlights accomplishments, encourages community, and creates memorable experiences for everyone involved.
On January 19, CYOC held its annual award ceremony to recognize those who give up their free time to volunteer at events like donation drives. Volunteers arrived two hours before the show to help set up signs, banners, tables, food, the stage, and everything else needed to ensure the event ran smoothly. Rehearsals were held repeatedly to make sure the performances were polished and engaging. The ceremony featured a variety of shows, including Chinese modern dances, guzheng and pipa performances, drumming, musical dialogues combining the pipa, violin, and cello, chorus performances, and club showcases. Though the rehearsal process was long and exhausting, the results were impressive and impactful.
The event began with speeches from Maryland leaders, such as Susan Lee, and concluded with a group picture. The speeches and performances left a deep impression on me. They emphasized the importance of community, mentorship, and recognition in nurturing young people’s potential. It was inspiring to see the recipients’ efforts acknowledged and celebrated not only by their peers but also by adults who support and guide them. This recognition encourages everyone to contribute positively to their communities, no matter the scale of their actions.
Attending the CYOC award ceremony also prompted me to reflect on my own life. It inspired me to volunteer more and reminded me of the value of supporting others, celebrating their achievements, and fostering an environment where resilience and courage are recognized.
Overall, the CYOC award ceremony was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have when they act with integrity and courage. It inspired me to embrace challenges more boldly, support others in their journeys, and strive to be a source of encouragement in my own community. This experience will remain a source of motivation and a reminder that courage is a quality worth recognizing, nurturing, and embodying every day.
Website Editor: Sophie Xu
华府青年 CYOC 
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