Sylvie Belmond 
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Behind every strong community is a generation preparing to lead. The Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley is helping that future take shape by recognizing young students for their leadership, character and commitment to service.
In a recent ceremony, the club presented its highest youth honor—the Hope of America award—to 21 students from local schools. The award recognizes academic achievement, integrity and a dedication to serving others. Each recipient received an engraved medallion as a symbol of their accomplishment.
The recipients are Jacob Mull (Arroyo), Christian Alhorani (Atherwood), Milana Tirpak (Berylwood), Zoey Hammersley (Big Springs), Quinn Trowbridge (Crestview), Sofia Tellez (Garden Grove), Rohan Pathakamuri (Hollow Hills), Gwendolyn Sutley (Knolls), Lindsey Letus (Madera), Dean Whitt (Mountain View), MarieElena Lazalde (Parkview), Keidy Santos (Santa Susana), Lincoln Schilder (Sycamore), Sara Haigler (Township), Landon Walter (Vista), Khloe DeMaio (White Oak), David Aguilar (Monte Vista), Alyssa Rojas (Hillside), Marie ‘Bel’ Vargas Camacho (Sinaloa), Adelaide Reyes (Valley View) and James Santti (St. Rose of Lima).
“These young leaders inspire hope for our future,” Kiwanis Club President Donna Smith said in a statement. “The Hope of America award encourages continued leadership, civic responsibility and service—core values that align with the mission of Kiwanis.”
The club also awarded scholarships to high school and college students for academic performance, volunteer work and leadership. Scholarship recipients from Royal High School included Miriam Ahmadian, Sophia Cano, Juliana Galbraith, Kyla Janiszewski and Maiya Vallejo. From Simi Valley High School, Amanda Kilmnick, Joshua Nghiem, Kalyssa Ro and Shayna Salerno received scholarships. Michelle Pech was recognized from Apollo High School, and Raquel Kamalz, president of Circle K International at Moorpark College, was also honored.
By highlighting students at different stages of their education—from Hope of America recipients to college-bound graduates—the Kiwanis Club reinforces its commitment to supporting youth. Club leaders said encouraging young people and recognizing their efforts helps build a stronger, more connected community, and provides students with motivation to continue contributing in meaningful ways.
