Luz Awards

Applications are currently open for 2026.

About the event

The Latino Community Center seeks to recognize and honor individuals and organizations whose light has strengthened our Latino community in the Greater Pittsburgh area. As an organization that focuses on children and youth, we aim to elevate the bright lights that are making schools and the region more welcoming for our students and their caregivers. We also intend to celebrate a youth that represents the best of our community.

Category

Youth of the Year (high school)

Celebrates a high school–age youth who embodies a growth mindset, shows strong leadership qualities, and demonstrates commitment to their future.

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2025 Honoree

Youth of Year

Ismael Jaimes Manrique

(Pittsburgh Science & Technology Academy)

Nomination process

01. Complete the online nomination form

02. Support letters: At least 2 letters from school staff (teachers, counselors, coaches) + the last two report cards.

03. Submit the support letters or additional documents via email to info@latinocommunitycenter.org, with the subject “Luz Award Letter of Support.”

Guidelines and Criteria

• Perfect academic excellence is not required; improvement, effort, and dedication will be valued.
• The LCC selection committee will review the nominations and choose the winner.

Process timeline

May: Nomination Period Opens

Nominations open for individuals to self-nominate or be nominated by others starting May 13th.

July: Nomination Deadline

All nominations are due by the end of July 13th. Late submissions will not be considered.

August: Winners Announcement

Award winners will be officially announced during the last days of this month.

October: Award Ceremony

The award will be presented at our “Vamos Pa’ Puerto Rico” event on October 10th, 2026.