Feb. 7, 2024 / A Lost River Junior/Senior High School senior won the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Leadership Award for his ongoing work as a leader and positive role model.
Amadeus Hernandez, 17, accepted the honor last month at an event attended by more than 600 people. He was among 10 Klamath Basin youth who were nominated for the award.
“It’s hard for me to see myself as a leader. I just try my best to be a good example,” he said.
Amadeus is soft spoken with a quick smile. As captain of the school’s soccer team, he works to inspire his teammates, leading by example and providing a solid foundation for the school’s new soccer program. He also started an after-school weight lifting program for fellow athletes.
Lost River Principal Angie Wallin described Amadeus as someone who leads by example. “He’s a quiet positive leader, and he has been a great mentor to the younger students as the school started its soccer program.”
In addition to soccer, he participates in track and has been involved in Lost River’s FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) program for the past six years, serving as a chapter officer and competing at the state, regional, and national levels. His nominators described him as a driving force in helping his FBLA chapter raise funds for conferences and competitions. Amadeus has competed at the regional, state and national levels for FBLA and is aiming to qualify for nationals again this year.
In addition, he is an officer for the school’s Latin Culture Club and volunteers with the Malin Centro Cristiano Church.
“Over the last two years, Amadeus has stepped out of his comfort zone to become someone who is looked up to and respected by all,” his nominators wrote. “Amadeus has quietly become a mentor to many around him and he has understood how important it is to be a part of his community and not just live in his community.”
Amadeus lives in Malin with his family, parents Ivan and Anna Hernandez and two younger sisters. After graduation, he plans to apply to the construction apprenticeship program at Klamath Community College with the goal of eventually becoming an architect.
The leadership award was a surprise to Amadeus.
“It’s an accomplishment, and inspires me,” he said. “My parents taught me to work hard, volunteer, and to give without expecting anything in return. I’m going to keep trying to be an overall good person.”
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