Shining a Light on Youth Achievement: How Recognition Builds Tomorrow's Leaders

In a world that often focuses on the negative aspects of youth culture, one woman is determined to change the narrative. Orlana Darkins Drewery, CEO of Shine Network and creator of the Shine Awards, has dedicated herself to celebrating the positive accomplishments of young people. Her mission reminds us all of the importance of recognizing young people's achievements and building their confidence.

The Power of Recognition

The Shine Awards is a national premier award ceremony that celebrates the positive accomplishments of young people between the ages of 13 and 24. What makes these awards special is their focus on recognizing youth across nine diverse categories: the arts, academics, community service, service and ministry, entrepreneurship, young adult group participation, leadership, STEM, and overcoming obstacles.

"We're not looking for the superstar," Orlana explains. "We want that person that you see that made a turnaround in their academics, that you see them serving at their church, that you see them doing things in their community."

This focus on recognizing those who might otherwise go unnoticed is what sets the Shine Awards apart. It's about finding the underdog – that young person who's working hard but not being recognized.

Building Confidence: The Foundation of Success

What started as a one-time event to prove a point in Pittsburgh has evolved into a 16-year journey of transforming young lives. The impact has been profound, with many past honorees sharing that the Shine Awards was their first-ever recognition.

One particularly moving story involves a young woman who won the academic award. Despite making straight A's in high school, she didn't believe she was worthy of college. After receiving recognition at the Shine Awards, she not only went to college but is now pursuing her PhD. "She told us if it wasn't for that experience of being seen and seeing that there's other people like her, she would have never even applied to college," Orlana shares.

This underscores a critical point: confidence-building in our youth is perhaps the most powerful gift we can give them.

Workplace Tips vs. Confidence Building

One of the most compelling insights from the conversation is the emphasis on building confidence before focusing on workplace skills. When asked about workplace tips for teens, Orlana's response is clear: "At this point in their lives, they don't need workplace tips. They need confidence."

We often rush young people into workplace mentality while skipping foundational elements like confidence, kindness, and self-worth. Without confidence, even the most intelligent individuals can appear incompetent. As Orlana points out, "We're so focused on this workplace mentality that we're skipping some foundational things like confidence, kindness, self-worth."

The Red Carpet Experience

The Shine Awards goes beyond just handing out trophies. Honorees receive a full red carpet treatment complete with media interviews, professional photography, and public speaking opportunities. They receive a heavy glass trophy, a financial stipend, and ongoing support.

"They truly are the stars that night," Orlana explains. "We work to stay in touch with them really throughout their whole life. It's not like you get a Shine Award and we disappear."

This continuous recognition and support system creates a lasting impact, forming what Orlana affectionately calls her "shine babies" – a community of recognized youth who continue to grow and succeed.

Small Actions, Big Impact

Not everyone can create a national awards ceremony, but Orlana emphasizes that recognition can start small: "Start where you are. Use what you have."

Recognition might be as simple as a certificate, a small award for catching someone doing something good, or even just a warm meal. As Orlana shares, she once received a call about a teenager whose only request was "a warm meal and a hug."

These small gestures of recognition and appreciation can make an enormous difference in a young person's life and sense of self-worth.

Controlling Your Narrative

For the teens listening, Orlana offers powerful advice: "Just know you control your own narrative."

Too often, teens are blamed for societal problems they had nothing to do with. By demonstrating responsibility, following through on commitments, and being authentic, young people can change how they're perceived and make a positive impact on themselves and those watching them.

The Ripple Effect of Recognition

When we recognize young people's achievements, we don't just build their confidence – we create a ripple effect that transforms communities. These youth grow up to become confident adults who recognize the value in others and continue the cycle of positive reinforcement.

The conversation between Orlana and the podcast host illuminates how simple recognition can transform not just individual lives but entire communities. By changing how we interact with young people – speaking to them with respect, acknowledging their efforts, and celebrating their achievements – we can help shape a more confident, capable, and compassionate next generation.

As Orlana puts it: "A lot of times it is such an eye-opener for adults because it's like, man, I'm 40 and you've already experienced something that maybe a 40 or 50-year-old should experience and you're 18."

Perhaps it's time we all looked at the youth around us with fresh eyes – recognizing their struggles, celebrating their victories, and providing the confidence-building recognition they need to shine.

To learn more about the Shine Awards or to nominate a deserving young person, visit TheShyneAwards.org. Nominations are accepted year-round, with the annual ceremony taking place on the first Sunday in August.