Attorney General Schwalb Recognizes 30 DC Youth and Emerging Adults for "Right Direction Awards"

Ceremony Will Honor DC Youth and Emerging Adults Who Have Demonstrated Resiliency & Made Positive Impacts in their Communities

WASHINGTON, DC – Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb today announced 30 awardees who will be recognized at the 2023 Right Direction Awards this evening, an initiative celebrating the resiliency, leadership, and achievements of District youth and emerging adults. 

“Young people across the District everyday are doing extraordinary things, often against extraordinary odds. At the Office of the Attorney General, we recognize the importance of elevating, highlighting and celebrating positive youth achievements so they can become the next generation of changemakers and leaders,” said AG Schwalb. “We understand it is critical to listen to young people and incorporate their perspectives into our work. Each of tonight’s awardees fills me with inspiration – they are proof that the District’s future – and indeed our country’s future – is bright.”

About the Right Direction Awards: 
Tonight, we will celebrate 30 “Trailblazers of Tomorrow” who have demonstrated perseverance through adversity, acted as change agents and leaders, and worked to have a positive impact on their community and improve the lives of others. Many of the young people being honored tonight have overcome significant challenges including homelessness, gun violence, foster care, and language barriers. Since establishing the Right Direction Awards in 2015, the Office of the Attorney General has recognized over 175 young people as Right Direction Award recipients. 

How to Attend the 2023 Right Direction Awards Ceremony

When: Wednesday, September 13 2023 at 6:00pm

Where: Old Council Chambers (441 4th Street NW)

2023 Right Direction Award Recipients 

  • Aniya Coffey, 17 years old, Ward 8 
  • Termane Jay Jr., 20 years old, Ward 7 
  • Nyzear Allen, 14 years old, Ward 8 
  • Nieja Green, 19 years old, Ward 4 
  • Tyrik Barrett, 18 years old, Ward 8 
  • Simaya Hammond, 17 years old, Ward 7 
  • Colette Gregg, 14 years old, Ward 5 
  • Donnie Coleman, 18 years old, Ward 7 
  • Derek Stevens, 23 years old, Ward 4 
  • Ana Bonilla, 20 years old, Ward 4 
  • Cateo Hilton, 19 years old, Ward 7 
  • Tre'Von Davis, 22 years old, Ward 7 
  • Leia Stephens, 19 years old, Ward 7
  • Ja’Sean Davis, 18 years old, Ward 7 
  • Silas Alemayehu, 17 years old, Ward 7 
  • Justice Thurston, 22 years old, Ward 8 
  • Audriauna Penny, 18 years old, Ward 8 
  • Tory'elle Coleman, 19 years old, Ward 7 
  • Amina Gassaway, 19 years old, Ward 7 
  • Najah Brooks, 20 years old, Ward 5 
  • Alicia Heredia, 20 years old, Ward 3 
  • Lynni Thomas, 17 years old, Ward 8 
  • Charley Anderson, 17 years old, Ward 5 
  • Shakayla Clark-Day, 17 years old, Ward 5 
  • Daneiell Bigby, 18 years old, Ward 8 
  • Francisco Borges, 20 years old, Ward 1 
  • Stanford Fitzgerald, 17 years old, Ward 5 
  • Cenia Barrera, 16 years old, Ward 7
  • Arayah Shelton, 17 years old, Ward 8 
  • Kemry Hughes - Youth Empowerment Recognition Award