Spanish
New York. – More than 40 young Dominicans residing in the United States were awarded during the fourth edition of the National Youth Award, in the category “Outstanding Young Dominican Abroad,” held in New York City by the Ministry of Youth of the Dominican Republic, in collaboration with the Dominican Consulate General in New York and the Institute of Dominicans Abroad (INDEX).
The ceremony recognized young students and professionals, from university students to doctors, for their contributions to the Dominican community abroad, their social leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to human development, consolidating this award as one of the main platforms for visibility of the young talent of the diaspora.You may be interested in: Young people denounce scams and demand inaction from the authorities despite an arrest warrant
The event was attended by the Dominican consul in New York, Jesús Vásquez; the Minister of Youth, Carlos Valdéz; the ambassador and vice-minister of INDEX, Celínés Toribio; representatives of public and private institutions from both countries, as well as renowned Dominican community leaders residing in the city. During his intervention, Consul Jesús Vásquez highlighted that the recognized young people represent "the generational replacement that guarantees the future of the Dominican Republic", while valuing their effort, discipline and preparation in one of the most competitive cities in the world. "You are role models, living examples that you can succeed without forgetting our roots and always carrying the name of our homeland high", he expressed. Vásquez also highlighted that Dominicans abroad are a showcase of the talent, creativity, and ability to overcome challenges that characterizes the Dominican people. "We are art, we are culture, we are sports, we are science, we are innovation and resilience. Wherever there is a Dominican, there is a story of struggle and success," he stated. The diplomat assured that the Consulate General of the Dominican Republic in New York will continue to firmly support these types of initiatives that strengthen the bond with the diaspora and promote national pride. "Our commitment is to continue accompanying these young people, opening doors for them and being allies in their personal and professional growth," he said. For his part, the Minister of Youth, Carlos Valdéz, highlighted that the National Youth Award is a public policy aimed at recognizing, stimulating, and projecting young people who positively impact both the country and abroad. "These young people embody the spirit of overcoming that defines Dominican youth. They are stories that inspire and transform," he affirmed. Meanwhile, the Vice Minister of INDEX, Celinés Toribio, highlighted that this type of initiative strengthens the bond between the diaspora and the Dominican Republic, promoting the roots, identity, and commitment of young Dominicans abroad with their country of origin.The statistics presented by the general coordinator of the Award in the United States, Eridenia Lora, reflect sustained growth in participation: in 2023, 57 young people applied; in 2024, 87; in 2025, 111; and in 2026 a total of 272 young people, of whom 68% are Dominicans residing in the United States, which represents an increase of more than 100% compared to previous years.
